Understanding how gene regulation contributes to leukemia and other diseases

Epigenetic mechanisms of regulation of histone lysine methyltransferases involved in leukemia

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11145916

This research explores how specific enzymes that control our genes might lead to leukemia and other serious illnesses, aiming to find new ways to help patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11145916 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Our bodies have a complex system for turning genes on and off, which involves how our DNA is packaged inside cells. This packaging, called chromatin, can be modified by special enzymes that add or remove chemical tags on proteins called histones. When these enzymes, like Dot1L and MLL1, don't work correctly, it can lead to serious conditions such as leukemia. This project aims to understand exactly how these enzymes are regulated and how their malfunction contributes to disease. By uncovering these basic mechanisms, we hope to identify new targets for treatments for leukemia and other related illnesses, including African sleeping sickness.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals with leukemia, particularly those with specific genetic alterations involving MLL1 or Dot1L, and potentially those affected by African sleeping sickness.

Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to the specific gene regulation mechanisms or enzymes (MLL1, Dot1L) being studied may not directly benefit from this particular research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: Understanding these fundamental mechanisms could lead to the development of new drugs that specifically target these enzymes to treat leukemia and other diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Inhibition of Dot1L and MLL1 has shown promise as a therapeutic strategy in other studies, suggesting that targeting these enzymes is a valid approach.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.