Targeting survival signals in leftover cancer cells after treatment

Mechanism-based targeting of unique survival signaling in residual tumors

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11040984

This study is looking at how some cancer cells in acute myeloid leukemia manage to survive treatment and keep the disease going, and it aims to find new ways to get rid of these tough cells by using special therapies that block their repair systems, which could help improve treatment for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11040984 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how certain cancer cells survive treatment and contribute to disease progression, particularly in acute myeloid leukemia. The team has discovered that these residual cells exhibit DNA damage and rely on specific repair mechanisms to survive. By combining targeted therapies with inhibitors that block these repair processes, the researchers aim to eliminate these resistant cells, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how to effectively target and eradicate these stubborn cancer cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia who have residual disease after initial treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are newly diagnosed without any residual disease or those with other types of leukemia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with acute myeloid leukemia by eliminating resistant cancer cells.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting residual cancer cells with similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.