Understanding how RNA editing affects leukemia cells in children

Elucidate the Role of RNA Editing in Acute T-cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia Initiating Cells

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11078301

This study is looking at how a specific process in our cells, called RNA editing, helps leukemia cells survive and grow in kids with a type of blood cancer called T-ALL, with the goal of finding better and safer treatments for children who have this illness.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078301 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of RNA editing in the survival and self-renewal of leukemia initiating cells in pediatric acute T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). The study aims to identify new therapeutic targets by examining how the enzyme ADAR1 contributes to the maintenance of these cancer cells. By understanding the mechanisms behind this process, the researchers hope to develop less toxic and more effective treatments for children suffering from relapsed T-ALL. The approach includes analyzing gene expression and the effects of inhibiting ADAR1 on leukemia cell propagation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old diagnosed with relapsed acute T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of leukemia or those who are not experiencing relapse may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, more effective treatments for children with relapsed T-ALL, improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting similar mechanisms in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.