Using a DNA vaccine to stop multiple myeloma from developing
Official title: Targeting DKK1 with a DNA Vaccine to Prevent Development of Multiple Myeloma
Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-10874135 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new vaccine that aims to help people with early signs of multiple myeloma, like MGUS and smoldering multiple myeloma, by training their immune system to fight off cancer cells more effectively and potentially avoid harsher treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | June 26, 2023 |
| Project end | December 25, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,101,494 |
| NIH project number | 75N91019D00021-0-759102300002-1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10874135 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with MGUS or smoldering multiple myeloma who are at risk of progressing to multiple myeloma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already been diagnosed with overt multiple myeloma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on preventing the progression of multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, by targeting a specific protein called DKK1 with a DNA vaccine. The study aims to develop a novel immunoprevention strategy for patients who have precursors to multiple myeloma, such as monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM). By utilizing a vaccine approach, the researchers hope to stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack cells expressing DKK1, which is prevalent in these early stages of the disease. This could lead to less toxic treatment options compared to traditional chemotherapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new way to prevent multiple myeloma from developing in at-risk patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting DKK1 for cancer treatment, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Xiangwei — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Wu, Xiangwei
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Integrative study of multiple myeloma genetics and disease biology
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Comparative Modeling to Prevent, Detect Early, and Treat Multiple Myeloma
A research team will build and compare computer models to understand how multiple myeloma develops, can be detected earlier, and treated more effectively.
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How LDL Affects Multiple Myeloma: New Pathways to Keep Remission
A new grant is studying how cholesterol from LDL particles fuels multiple myeloma and how this interaction influences the tumor environment and immune response, with goals to help patients stay in remission.
-
Therapy-induced senescence and immune activation in multiple myeloma
A study in people with multiple myeloma will explore how treatment-related senescence in cancer cells may stimulate the immune system and affect cancer return after standard frontline therapy.
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BCMA CAR-T enteritis: understanding immune toxicities in multiple myeloma
A broad study to uncover why some CAR-T cell treatments targeting BCMA cause severe intestinal inflammation in people with multiple myeloma.
-
Understanding Drug-Resistant Multiple Myeloma to Stop Relapse
Researchers are studying why some myeloma cells resist treatment and how to create new therapies to prevent relapse.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.