Understanding how chronic myelomonocytic leukemia resists targeted therapy

Mechanisms of resistance to MEK Inhibition in RAS-pathway activated chronic myelomonocytic leukemia

NIH-funded research University of Utah · NIH-11083674

This study is looking at how some people with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) might not respond to a treatment called cobimetinib, and it aims to help those patients by figuring out why that happens and finding better ways to treat them.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11083674 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), a serious blood cancer, focusing on how some patients develop resistance to a specific treatment called cobimetinib, which targets the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway. The study involves a clinical trial where patients with certain genetic mutations will receive cobimetinib to see if it effectively treats their condition. Researchers will collect and analyze patient samples over time to identify mechanisms of resistance and explore ways to overcome them. This approach aims to improve treatment outcomes for patients with CMML.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia who have mutations activating the RAS/MAPK pathway.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia who do not have RAS/MAPK pathway mutations may not benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeted therapies can be effective in treating certain blood cancers, but resistance remains a significant challenge, making this investigation both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, 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.