Understanding how metabolism affects healthy and cancerous blood cells

Metabolic control of normal and malignant hematopoiesis

['FUNDING_R37'] · SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH · NIH-10977722

This research explores how changes in cell metabolism, particularly a molecule called L-2HG, contribute to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in patients without specific genetic mutations.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R37']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10977722 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

We know that certain genetic changes in AML lead to a molecule called D-2HG, which stops cancer cells from maturing. While new medicines target this D-2HG, they only help a specific group of patients. Our work looks at whether a similar molecule, L-2HG, might also play a role in AML for patients who don't have those genetic changes. We found that low oxygen levels can cause both healthy and cancerous cells to make L-2HG, which then helps cancer cells grow and prevents them from developing normally. This suggests that targeting L-2HG could be a new way to help more patients with AML.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is relevant for patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, particularly those whose disease is not driven by IDH mutations.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those whose AML is already effectively managed by existing IDH-targeted therapies may not directly benefit from this specific line of inquiry.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for acute myeloid leukemia, especially for patients whose cancer does not have common genetic mutations.

How similar studies have performed: While IDH inhibitors targeting D-2HG have shown success in specific AML patient subsets, the role of L-2HG in IDH-wildtype AML is a novel area of investigation.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.