Targeting a protein interaction to improve treatment for acute leukemia

Targeting Menin in Acute Leukemia with Upregulated HOX Genes

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-11078720

This study is looking at how two proteins, menin and MLL1, work together in acute leukemia, and it's testing new medicines that could help patients, especially those with tough genetic challenges, by blocking this interaction to improve their treatment options and outcomes.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11078720 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on the critical interaction between the menin and MLL1 proteins, which is essential for the development of acute leukemia. By developing small molecule inhibitors that disrupt this interaction, the research aims to create new targeted therapies for patients suffering from acute leukemia, particularly those with poor prognoses due to specific genetic mutations. The approach involves advanced medicinal chemistry to optimize these inhibitors for maximum effectiveness. Patients may benefit from a novel treatment option that could improve survival rates and outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients diagnosed with acute leukemia, particularly those with MLL1 translocations or mutations in the NPM1 or NUP98 genes.

Not a fit: Patients with acute leukemia who do not have MLL1 translocations or the specific mutations targeted by this research may not benefit.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies that significantly improve survival rates for acute leukemia patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar protein interactions in leukemia, indicating a potential for success with this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

ANN ARBOR, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.