Targeting specific stem cells in myelodysplastic syndrome for better treatment outcomes
Official title: Metabolic targeting of heterogenous myelodysplastic syndrome stem cells
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10931676 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to find better ways to treat high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) by understanding the different types of stem cells involved in the disease and testing a new combination of drugs to help improve patient outcomes.
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 | September 19, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $402,556 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA286717-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931676 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome who have not responded adequately to current therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with low-risk myelodysplastic syndrome or those who have not been diagnosed with MDS may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to identify and target the unique vulnerabilities of heterogeneous myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) stem cells, which are believed to be the root cause of the disease. By understanding the different subsets of these stem cells and their varying responses to existing therapies, the project seeks to develop more effective treatment strategies. The approach includes laboratory studies and a clinical trial that tests a combination of drugs to improve patient outcomes. Patients with high-risk MDS may benefit from this innovative treatment strategy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments that comprehensively eradicate MDS stem cells, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting MDS stem cells, but this approach aims to refine and improve upon those methods, making it a novel and potentially groundbreaking effort.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pietras, Eric M — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Pietras, Eric M
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Targeting diverse stem cells in myelodysplastic syndrome to eradicate the disease
Aimed at identifying weaknesses in the diverse stem cell populations of myelodysplastic syndrome so future treatments can wipe out the root cause of the disease.
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New treatment approach for myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia
This project aims to develop a new antibody-based therapy to help people with MDS or AML, especially older or frail patients who cannot tolerate high-dose chemotherapy.
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Targeting metabolic weak spots in myelodysplastic syndrome stem cells
The team is trying metabolism-based treatments to kill the stem cells that drive high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).
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Investigating the role of PI3 kinase in Myelodysplastic Syndrome
This study is looking at how certain changes in genes might affect blood cell production in older adults with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), and it hopes to find new ways to help improve treatment for people with this condition.
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Identifying harmful and harmless genetic variations in blood cancer predisposition genes
This study is looking at how certain changes in a gene called DDX41 might affect the chances of developing blood disorders like myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML), so that doctors can provide better advice and support for patients at risk.
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Investigating CCRL2's role in myelodysplastic syndrome
This study is looking at how a specific gene called CCRL2 affects the growth of harmful cells in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), especially in men, to find new ways to improve treatment for people with this blood disorder.
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.