Targeting mitochondrial NAD+ in acute myeloid leukemia
Mitochondrial NAD+ in Acute Myeloid Leukemias
Researchers are exploring whether lowering a key mitochondrial molecule called NAD+ can make treatments work better for people with acute myeloid leukemia, including older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11141819 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From my perspective as someone affected by leukemia, the team plans to lower NAD+ inside leukemia cell mitochondria by targeting a transporter called SLC25A51 that brings NAD+ into mitochondria. They will test how AML cells from lab lines and patient-derived samples respond when mitochondrial NAD+ is reduced, including cells that resist current therapies. The researchers will compare effects on healthy blood cells to check for safety signals. Results will guide whether this approach could move toward therapies that target leukemia metabolism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for sample donation or future trials would be adults with acute myeloid leukemia, especially older patients or those whose disease has become resistant to standard treatments.
Not a fit: People without AML or whose leukemia does not rely on mitochondrial NAD+–dependent pathways may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to treatments that kill therapy-resistant AML cells while causing little harm to healthy cells.
How similar studies have performed: Prior research targeting mitochondrial metabolism in AML has shown promising preclinical results, but selectively depleting mitochondrial NAD+ via SLC25A51 is a novel and largely untested strategy.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cambronne, Xiaolu Ang — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Cambronne, Xiaolu Ang
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 below.