Targeting the root cause of acute myeloid leukemia

Therapeutic Targeting of Human AML Stem Cells

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10903988

This study is looking for better ways to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML) by focusing on the special cells that help the cancer grow, and it aims to find out how to target these cells more effectively, especially for newly diagnosed patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10903988 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing better treatments for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) by targeting leukemia stem cells (LSCs), which are believed to drive the disease. The researchers aim to identify common characteristics of these LSCs to create effective therapies that can overcome the challenges posed by their diversity within patients. A key aspect of the approach involves inhibiting a specific protein, BCL2, which has shown promise in selectively eradicating LSCs and improving outcomes for newly diagnosed AML patients. The study also seeks to understand the mechanisms behind treatment relapse to enhance long-term effectiveness.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia who are newly starting treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of leukemia or those who have already undergone multiple treatments for AML may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective therapies for AML, potentially improving survival rates and reducing relapse.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting leukemia stem cells, particularly with BCL2 inhibitors, indicating a potential breakthrough in AML treatment.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.
Conditions Disease
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.