Mitochondrial issues causing liver problems in Hispanic adults with leukemia treatment
Official title: Mitochondrial Dysfunction underlies treatment related hepatotoxicity in Hispanics with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10675403 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how problems with tiny parts of our cells, called mitochondria, might make liver issues more likely in Hispanic adults being treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, so we can find better ways to personalize their treatment and help them feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 14, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $442,404 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA274416-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10675403 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Hispanic adults diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia who are undergoing treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not Hispanic or those who do not have acute lymphoblastic leukemia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to liver toxicity in Hispanic patients undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The study focuses on understanding the genetic factors that may increase the risk of hepatotoxicity, particularly in adults, as they often experience more severe side effects from treatments like asparaginase. By examining the genetic variants associated with mitochondrial function, the research aims to identify potential biomarkers that could help tailor treatment plans and improve outcomes for this population. The approach includes pharmacogenomic analysis to better understand how these factors affect treatment efficacy and safety.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatment strategies for Hispanic patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that genetic factors can influence treatment outcomes in cancer, but this specific focus on Hispanic populations and mitochondrial dysfunction is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alachkar, Houda — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Alachkar, Houda
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Caregiver-led mobile tool to support healthy habits for kids treated for ALL
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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.
-
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.
-
Combinatorial targeting for high-risk B-cell ALL treatment
A research effort at West Virginia University is exploring a combination therapy for adult B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia using targeted gene silencing and a small-molecule compound to improve treatment in patients.
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Understanding why Latino children have a higher risk of childhood ALL
This project looks at why Latino children are more likely to develop acute lymphoblastic leukemia and whether genetic ancestry plays a role, with the goal of improving prevention and outcomes.
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Targeting obesity to improve survival for children with ALL
A new approach explores whether reducing obesity-related factors can make chemotherapy work better for kids with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
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.