Using genetic discoveries to improve outcomes for high-risk acute leukemia
Translating genomic discoveries to improved outcomes for high risk acute leukemia
Researchers are using genetic information from people with high-risk acute leukemia to find why the cancer starts and why some treatments fail so they can create better tests and targeted therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11210476 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This program analyzes the genomes of leukemia samples and uses lab models to find the genetic changes that drive aggressive or treatment‑resistant disease. Scientists study how those changes alter gene control, chromatin structure, and cell behavior, including a process called liquid‑liquid phase separation. The team is testing new approaches such as targeted protein degradation aimed at cancer drivers that have been hard to treat. Work builds on previously identified leukemia subtypes and uses patient samples alongside experimental systems to move findings toward new diagnostics and therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with high‑risk or treatment‑resistant acute leukemia, including children and adults whose cancer carries the specific genetic changes under study, would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: Patients with low‑risk leukemia types not related to the genetic alterations studied, or individuals without acute leukemia, are unlikely to see direct benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could produce new tests and targeted treatments that improve cure rates for children and others with high‑risk acute leukemia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous genomic studies and the team's own work have already reclassified leukemia subtypes and shown promising early results with targeted approaches, providing a strong foundation for this program.
Where this research is happening
Memphis, United States
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital — Memphis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mullighan, Charles G — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Study coordinator: Mullighan, Charles G
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 below.