Investigating the role of PRL3 in promoting survival in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

The Phosphatase PRL3 as a MYC Target and Pro-Survival Oncogene in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-10840784

This study is looking at how a protein called PRL3 works with the MYC gene to help leukemia cells survive, with the hope of finding new treatments that are easier on kids with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia than regular chemotherapy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10840784 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the phosphatase PRL3 interacts with the MYC oncogene to promote survival in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). By using advanced models, including zebrafish and human cell studies, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which PRL3 contributes to leukemia progression. The goal is to identify potential targeted therapies that could minimize the severe side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy, especially for pediatric patients. This work could lead to the development of new treatments that specifically target the molecular pathways involved in ALL.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, particularly those who have not responded to standard chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of leukemia or those whose ALL is in remission may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted therapies that improve survival rates and reduce side effects for patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of phosphatases in cancer is being explored, this specific approach targeting PRL3 in MYC-driven ALL is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancersneoplasm/cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.