Investigating the link between Down syndrome and acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children
Official title: Molecular epidemiology of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children with Down syndrome
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10908747 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why kids with Down syndrome are more likely to get a type of blood cancer called acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and it hopes to find out how their genes play a role in this so that we can help keep them healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 3, 2020 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $801,780 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA249867-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10908747 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and have Down syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Down syndrome or who are outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding why children with Down syndrome are at a significantly higher risk of developing acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It aims to explore the genetic and phenotypic factors that contribute to this increased risk, particularly looking at the role of chromosome 21 and other genetic modifiers. By conducting genome-wide association studies, the research seeks to identify specific genetic loci that may influence leukemia susceptibility in these children. The findings could lead to better risk assessment and targeted interventions for affected children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for children with Down syndrome who develop acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors related to leukemia in children, but this specific focus on Down syndrome and ALL is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rabin, Karen R — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Rabin, Karen R
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Preventing fatal infections in children with Down syndrome during ALL treatment
Aimed at reducing deadly infections in children with Down syndrome undergoing chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia by finding biomarkers to tailor treatment and supportive care.
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Preventing deadly infections in children with Down syndrome during leukemia treatment
This project looks for blood markers that can identify children with Down syndrome and acute lymphoblastic leukemia who are at high risk for life-threatening infections so doctors can offer extra protection early.
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Investigating genetic factors that increase leukemia risk in children with Down syndrome
This study is looking at how certain genes might affect the chances of children with Down syndrome getting acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), so we can find ways to better predict and prevent this risk for those kids.
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Caregiver-led mobile tool to support healthy habits for kids treated for ALL
A caregiver-directed mobile program helps children who were treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia build healthier daily routines.
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Genomics of childhood ALL across global populations
A wide-ranging study looks at how inherited genetics influence the risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia around the world.
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Genomics of childhood ALL across diverse populations
A large international study will look at why children everywhere get acute lymphoblastic leukemia and how genetics may influence risk.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.