Understanding how fat cells in bone marrow affect drug resistance in multiple myeloma

Defining the Roles of Bone Marrow Adipocytes and FABP4/5 Signaling in Multiple Myeloma Drug Resistance

NIH-funded research Mainehealth · NIH-10880251

This study is looking at how fat cells in the bone marrow might affect the way multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, responds to treatment, with the goal of finding better ways to help patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMainehealth NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Portland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10880251 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of bone marrow fat cells in the progression of multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. It aims to understand how these fat cells contribute to drug resistance in myeloma cells, potentially leading to new treatment strategies. The researchers will analyze the interactions between myeloma cells and bone marrow adipocytes, focusing on specific proteins that may influence this resistance. By conducting cell culture studies, they hope to uncover mechanisms that could be targeted for improved therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with multiple myeloma, particularly those who are older or have a higher body mass index.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage multiple myeloma or those who do not have significant bone marrow adipose tissue may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for multiple myeloma patients by overcoming drug resistance.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific interactions between bone marrow adipocytes and myeloma cells are still being explored, similar research has shown promising results in understanding cancer microenvironments.

Where this research is happening

Portland, 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.