Mapping early blood changes that lead to multiple myeloma
Myeloma multidimensional precancer atlas
The project will map biological changes over time in people with MGUS or smoldering myeloma, especially among Black/African American patients, to help spot who may develop full multiple myeloma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11194492 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project will analyze thousands of blood and bone marrow samples collected over time to build a detailed atlas of changes that occur before full myeloma develops. Researchers will combine genetic profiling with spatial study of the bone marrow environment to see how tumor cells and surrounding tissues change together. The work intentionally includes a racially diverse group with a large proportion of Black/African American participants to understand why disparities exist. The resulting atlas aims to define distinct precancer stages that could guide monitoring or early treatment decisions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) or smoldering myeloma, particularly Black/African American individuals or those already enrolled in the participating cohorts.
Not a fit: People without a precursor monoclonal gammopathy or those already living with advanced multiple myeloma are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could enable earlier detection of dangerous changes and more personalized monitoring or early interventions to prevent or delay multiple myeloma.
How similar studies have performed: Previous cohort and genomic studies have identified some markers of progression, but a comprehensive, spatial, and racially diverse precancer atlas is novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Dana-Farber Cancer Inst — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ghobrial, Irene M. — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Ghobrial, Irene M.
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 below.