Using metabolism to improve treatment for acute myeloid leukemia

Exploiting alpha-ketoglutarate-dependent metabolism for therapeutic benefit in acute myeloid leukemia

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH · NIH-10891504

This study is looking at how changing certain processes in your body's metabolism might help treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in patients without specific genetic mutations, by blocking an enzyme that could help turn leukemia cells into healthy blood cells, and it aims to find out who might benefit the most from this treatment.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10891504 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how manipulating specific metabolic pathways can help treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML), particularly in patients whose cancer does not have certain genetic mutations. The focus is on inhibiting an enzyme called 2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase, which may enhance the differentiation of leukemia cells into normal blood cells. By understanding the molecular mechanisms behind this process, the research aims to identify which patients might benefit the most from this approach. The study employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR, to explore these metabolic vulnerabilities in AML cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients with acute myeloid leukemia, particularly those with wild-type IDH mutations and TP53 mutations.

Not a fit: Patients with acute myeloid leukemia who have already responded well to existing therapies or those with specific genetic mutations that are not targeted by this research may not benefit.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for the majority of AML patients who currently lack effective metabolism-directed therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancers with specific mutations, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach for AML.

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.