Understanding Genetic Differences in Childhood B-Cell Leukemia
Variant to Function Mapping of B-ALL Risk Loci
This research aims to uncover the specific genetic changes that contribute to childhood B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), especially in children of Hispanic/Latino ethnicity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11136407 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Childhood B-ALL is a serious cancer, and we know that certain genetic differences can increase a child's risk. This project will look at a large amount of genetic information from children with B-ALL from different backgrounds to find these specific genetic changes. Researchers will then use advanced lab techniques to see how these changes affect the development of normal B cells. Our goal is to understand the fundamental causes of B-ALL, which could lead to new ways to prevent this disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to children and families affected by B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, particularly those of Hispanic/Latino ethnicity who face higher risks.
Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing treatment for B-ALL may not see direct, immediate benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of B-ALL's origins, paving the way for future strategies to prevent the disease and reduce health disparities.
How similar studies have performed: Previous large-scale genetic studies have identified general risk areas for B-ALL, but this project uses innovative methods to pinpoint the exact genetic changes and their functions, building on existing knowledge.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sankaran, Vijay Ganesh — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Sankaran, Vijay Ganesh
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.