Targeting and eliminating cancer stem cells in a type of childhood leukemia
Official title: Eradicating leukemic stem cells in juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10873251 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for better ways to treat juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) in kids by finding new therapies that can specifically target the cancer cells that cause the disease to come back.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $208,517 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA282579-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10873251 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia, particularly those with specific genetic mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of leukemia or those who do not have the genetic mutations associated with JMML may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML), a rare childhood cancer with limited treatment options. The study aims to develop new therapies that specifically target leukemic stem cells (LSCs), which are responsible for the persistence and relapse of the disease. By using a unique mouse model that mimics the genetic mutations found in JMML, researchers will explore how to effectively eradicate these cancerous cells. The goal is to improve treatment outcomes and reduce the chances of relapse in affected children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for children with JMML, potentially reducing relapse rates and improving survival.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting leukemic stem cells is a novel approach in JMML, similar strategies have shown promise in other types of leukemia, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Qu, Cheng-Kui — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Qu, Cheng-Kui
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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.