Targeting serine metabolism in aggressive acute myeloid leukemia
Determining the Role and Targeting potential of Serine Metabolism in aggressive sub-types of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11285351
This project explores whether blocking how leukemia cells use the amino acid serine can slow or stop aggressive acute myeloid leukemia in children and adults.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11285351 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will study how aggressive AML cells depend on serine by measuring changes in their metabolism, gene activity, and proteins. They will use lab-grown human leukemia cells and mouse models to test dietary serine restriction and drugs that block serine production. The team will focus on high-risk AML subtypes such as MLL-rearranged and FLT3-ITD, and combine metabolomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics to map vulnerable pathways. Findings aim to reveal specific ways to deprive leukemia cells of key building blocks without harming normal cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: The most relevant patients would be people (children or adults) diagnosed with aggressive AML subtypes like MLL-rearranged or FLT3-ITD who might be eligible for future trials targeting metabolism.
Not a fit: People with low-risk AML subtypes or unrelated blood disorders likely would not benefit from this specific serine-targeting approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that target serine metabolism to slow disease and improve outcomes for people with aggressive AML.
How similar studies have performed: Early lab and mouse studies have shown that restricting serine or inhibiting serine synthesis can slow AML growth, but clinical testing in humans is still limited.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SYKES, STEPHEN MATTHEW — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SYKES, STEPHEN MATTHEW
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.