Targeting a protein involved in blood cancer treatment

Targeting histone methyltransferase EZH2 for the treatment of hematological cancer

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10808144

This study is looking at a protein called EZH2 that is important in some blood cancers, and it's testing new drugs that could help break down this protein to improve treatment for patients, especially those with certain genetic changes in their leukemia.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10808144 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on a protein called EZH2, which plays a significant role in the development of certain types of blood cancers, particularly acute leukemias. The researchers aim to develop new drugs using a technology called PROTAC, which can effectively degrade EZH2 and potentially improve treatment outcomes for patients. By targeting both the canonical and non-canonical functions of EZH2, the study seeks to create more effective therapies for patients who currently have limited treatment options. Patients with specific genetic alterations in their leukemia may particularly benefit from these new approaches.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with acute leukemias, especially those with the Mixed Lineage Leukemia gene rearrangement.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancers or those without the specific genetic alterations related to EZH2 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 leukemias, improving their chances of recovery.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting EZH2 for cancer treatment, but this specific approach using PROTAC technology is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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.