Phase separation of the MLL1 core complex catalytic module
Funded at Upstate Medical University · NIH-11298154 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new approach studies how a key leukemia-related protein complex organizes itself in the cell to drive aggressive blood cancers, with potential implications for future therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Upstate Medical University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $562,820 |
| NIH project number | 1R01GM158789-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11298154 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable for this basic science grant as described; the study is focused on molecular mechanisms rather than testing in patients.
✕Less likely to help
No direct patient involvement or benefit described in this basic science project.
What this research studies
This project explores how the MLL1 core enzyme complex forms dynamic structures inside cells, which can dramatically boost its ability to modify DNA markers linked to leukemia. By mapping the parts of the complex that drive phase separation and testing these in cell-based systems, researchers aim to understand how misregulation contributes to disease. They will use advanced biophysical methods to measure how the complex assembles and changes over time, and how leukemia-associated mutations disrupt this process. The work could lay the groundwork for therapies that target the spatial organization of this enzyme complex in cancer cells.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could reveal new ways to interrupt the faulty enzyme organization in leukemia, potentially guiding future treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous findings show that phase separation can regulate enzyme activity, supporting potential translational relevance of this mechanism.
Where this research is happening
-
Upstate Medical University
Syracuse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cosgrove, Michael S. — Upstate Medical University
- Study coordinator: Cosgrove, Michael S.
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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.