Understanding and preventing heart problems from chemotherapy in African American children

Predicting and Preventing Chemotherapy-Induced Cardiotoxicity in African American Children

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11059720

This study is looking at how the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin might affect the hearts of African American children with cancer, and it wants to find out if certain genes can help predict who might have heart problems after treatment, so we can find better ways to keep these kids safe while they fight cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11059720 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the risk of heart damage caused by the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin in African American children with cancer. It aims to identify genetic factors that may predict which patients are more likely to experience heart issues after treatment. By using patient-specific stem cells, the study will explore innovative methods to prevent these complications. The goal is to improve the safety and effectiveness of cancer treatments for this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American children aged 0-11 years who are receiving doxorubicin as part of their cancer treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are not African American or those who are not receiving doxorubicin for their cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prediction and prevention of heart problems in children undergoing chemotherapy, ultimately improving their long-term health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity, this approach using patient-specific stem cells is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in this specific population.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.