Targeting a specific protein to treat a type of blood cancer

Targeting PLK1 in RAS mutant chronic myelomonocytic leukemia

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11067766

This study is looking at a new pill called Onvansertib to see if it can help people with a tough type of blood cancer called chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) that hasn't responded to other treatments, especially for those with specific gene changes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11067766 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), a serious blood cancer with poor outcomes. It aims to develop targeted therapies for patients with the proliferative subtype of CMML, which often has mutations in the RAS pathway. The study will test a new oral medication called Onvansertib, which inhibits a protein known as PLK1, in patients whose cancer has returned or is resistant to other treatments. By using innovative trial designs, the research seeks to determine the safety and effectiveness of this treatment approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with relapsed or refractory proliferative chronic myelomonocytic leukemia who have RAS pathway mutations.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of leukemia or those who do not have RAS mutations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with relapsed or refractory chronic myelomonocytic leukemia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting PLK1 in similar blood cancers, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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.