Targeting calcium in mitochondria to eliminate leukemia cells
Official title: Targeting mitochondrial calcium to eradicate leukemia-initiating cells
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10940736 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for better ways to get rid of stubborn leukemia cells in patients with acute myeloid leukemia who haven't had success with certain treatments, by exploring how these cells behave and finding new weaknesses to target for more effective therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $437,432 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA292071-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10940736 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are AML patients who have received initial therapy with venetoclax and azacitidine and are experiencing relapse.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been treated with venetoclax and azacitidine or those with other types of leukemia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new strategies to eliminate leukemia-initiating cells (LICs) in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who have previously been treated with venetoclax and azacitidine. The study aims to understand the different subtypes of LICs that can exist in the same patient and their varying responses to treatment. By investigating the role of calcium uptake in mitochondria, the researchers hope to identify a specific vulnerability in resistant LICs that can be targeted for more effective therapies. This approach could lead to improved treatment options for patients who have not responded well to existing therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for AML patients, potentially reducing relapse rates and improving survival outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting mitochondrial functions in cancer cells, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jordan, Craig T. — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Jordan, Craig T.
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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.