Targeting a growth factor to improve treatment for acute myeloid leukemia.

Targeting Autocrine Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) Production as a Therapeutic Modality in Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10751039

This study is looking at how a special protein called hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) affects the survival of leukemia cells in older patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and it aims to see if blocking HGF with a specific treatment can help improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy and overall outcomes for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10751039 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a serious blood cancer that often has poor outcomes, especially in older patients. The study investigates the role of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in the survival of leukemia cells and aims to use a monoclonal antibody to inhibit HGF in combination with chemotherapy. By analyzing blood samples from patients, the researchers hope to identify biomarkers that predict treatment response and improve patient outcomes. The approach is based on previous findings that showed promising clinical responses when targeting HGF.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, particularly those who have not responded well to standard treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of leukemia or those who are not eligible for chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with acute myeloid leukemia, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches targeting the HGF/c-MET axis in leukemia treatment.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.