Skip to main content

Research We Fund

With hundreds of projects currently underway, we fund scientists through our academic grant programs and biotech partners through our strategic venture philanthropy initiative. Use the filters below to find an LLS-funded project.

For a better viewing experience, please use a larger device.

Include results from ANY of the following country/countries
Include results from ANY of the following state(s)
Include results from ANY of the following program type(s)
Major Diseases
Specific Disease Types
Other Key Search Terms
Dr. Jiang

Hao Jiang, PhD

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, Virginia
United States

Targeting aberrant epigenetic condensates in myeloid malignancies

Genetic changes of ASXL1 are very frequent in human blood cancers. We found that the altered forms of ASXL1 protein promote blood cancers through forming tiny liquid-like droplets in the cell. In this project, we aim to develop a method to specifically break these droplets to inhibit its activity in driving blood cancers.

Program: Discovery
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2024 End Date: September 30, 2027
Dr. Jordan

Craig Jordan, PhD

University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus

Aurora, Colorado
United States

Modeling LSC heterogeneity at unprecedented resolution in AML

Our goal is to perform high-resolution molecular characterization of human leukemia stem cells (LSCs). We have developed an integrated set of single-cell techniques that will assess transcriptional, genomic, and phenotypic features of primary LSC populations obtained from patients undergoing varying forms of treatment. We expect to create a molecular atlas of primary LSCs that will provide the leukemia research community with a powerful resource for the development of improved therapies.

Program: Discovery
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2024 End Date: September 30, 2027
Dr. Lane

Andrew Lane, PhD, MD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Defining mechanisms of sensitivity and resistance to PI3K gamma inhibition in AML

The goal of our laboratory is to discover, study, and the translate new leukemia therapies to the clinic. In this project, we are studying a signaling pathway, called PI3 kinase gamma, that we believe is important in patients with AML and might lead to new treatments using drugs that target its activity.

Program: Discovery
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2024 End Date: September 30, 2027
Daniel Pollyea

Daniel Pollyea, MD

University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus

Aurora, Colorado
United States

Lower Dose Mitoxantrone for Venetoclax Resistant Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Venetoclax-based regimens are the standard of care for many patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and are highly active therapeutic strategies for this challenging disease. However, some patients do not respond, and most patients who do respond will relapse. We have discovered that resistance to venetoclax may be mediated by the movement patterns of calcium throughout a cell. Furthermore, we have found that mitoxantrone, a conventional chemotherapy agent, can interrupt these calcium fluctuations at very low doses. Therefore we have proposed a clinical trial using lower-dose mitoxantrone for AML patients whose disease has resistance to venetoclax-based regimens.

Program: Academic Clinical Trials Program (ACT)
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2027
Rizwan Romee

Rizwan Romee, MD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Memory-like NK cells after hematopoietic cell transplant to eradicate measurable residual disease

Relapse in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) after hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) is associated with extremely poor prognosis and thus remains a major unmet need. Natural killer (NK) cells are attractive for treating relapse in the post-HCT setting as these cells are not associated with causing graft-versus-host-disease. Cytokine-induced memory-like (CIML or memory-like) NK cells described by our group, demonstrate enhanced anti-leukemia activity, and persist for up to several months in an immune compatible post HCT setting (when derived from the stem cell donor). The goal of this trial is to evaluate donor CIML NK cells early after HCT in AML patients with measurable residual disease (MRD) and therefore otherwise with a high risk of relapse.

Program: Academic Clinical Trials Program (ACT)
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Vick

Eric Vick, MD, PhD

University of Cincinnati

Cincinnati, Ohio
United States

Targeting Myeloid Malignancies through IRAK4 Synthetic Lethality Dependencies

Based on our preliminary data, we hypothesize that IRAK4 inhibition leads to LSPC reprogramming in MDS and AML. Aim 1 will evaluate the mechanism by which IRAK4 inhibition leads to LSPC reprogramming in cell lines, mice, and PDX samples. Aim 2 will concentrate on understanding of how IRAK4 inhibition creates synthetic lethal dependencies with the CELMoD CC-885 and how neosubstrates of CC-885 mediate the synergy upon IRAK4 inhibition in leukemic cells.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Wei

Manyi Wei, PhD

Yale

New Haven, Connecticut
United States

Harnessing METTL3 inhibition in acute megakaryoblastic leukemia driven by the t(1;22) fusion involving a member of the m6A writer complex

I want to understand how the t(1;22) translocation that involves a member of the m6A writer complex drives acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL). To identify culprit genes and pathways I will use multi-omics, including RNA, eCLIP, and TimeLapse Seq and proteomics. I will dissect the RBM15-MKL specific effects of a novel METTL3 inhibitor in primary murine and human AMKL in vitro and in vivo. My ultimate goal is to cure this rare infant leukemia by harnessing METTL3 inhibition.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Young

Andrew Young, MD, PhD

Washington University in St. Louis


United States

Understanding How Hematopoietic Developmental State Determines Oncogenic KMT2A Fusion Formation and Leukemic Potential

My goal is to understand how cancer-associated gene fusions arise and cause disease. Specifically, I am studying how oncogenic fusions involving the gene KMT2A arise in different hematopoietic cell-types and how developmental context drives the development of leukemia. My long-term goals are to leverage an increased fundamental understanding of leukemogenesis provided by this research to improve treatment and lengthen lifespan for patients with KMT2A fusion-driven leukemias.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Vujovic

Ana Vujovic, PhD

University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus

Denver, Colorado
United States

Investigating the dependency for protein synthesis in Venetoclax/Azacitidine-resistant acute myeloid leukemia

Relapsed and/or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) display resistance to Venetoclax and Azacitidine (Ven/Aza) with approximately one third of patients demonstrating upregulated protein synthesis. This proposal will investigate the mechanism(s) underlying the dependence of Ven/Aza-resistant AML on protein synthesis as well as the functional consequences of targeting this pathway. Successful completion of these studies will provide novel insights into Ven/Aza resistance mechanisms.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Kain

Bailee Kain, PhD

Cincinnati Children's Hospital

Cincinnati, Ohio
United States

Functionalizing novel PHIP variants in ancestry specific Acute Myeloid Leukemia

AML risk stratification established by previous studies do not reflect survival outcomes observed in Black patients. Exome sequencing of 100 Black AML patients revealed the novel variants previously not affiliated with AML, including PHIP. Using multiomic patient sample captures and GEMMs, we will functionalize variants in PHIP and assess if they drive leukemogenesis and/or therapy resistance. The overall goal of this work is to implement inclusive genetic assessment tools for AML diagnosis.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Biswas

Jeetayu Biswas, MD, PhD

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

New York, New York
United States

Targeting SF3B1 splicing factor mutant myeloid malignancies through dependency on GPATCH8

Mutations in RNA splicing factors, particularly those involving the core splicing factor SF3B1 are amongst the most common mutations found in myeloid neoplasms. We recently identified a cofactor protein known as GPATCH8 which is required for the aberrant function of mutant SF3B1. We now seek to understand and target the ways in which GPATCH8 and SF3B1 interact. In so doing we hope to develop new treatments for leukemias containing mutant splicing factors.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. DiPersio

John DiPersio, MD, PhD

Washington University in St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri
United States

KT1, a novel NK trispecific antibody for the treatment of AML and MDS

New treatments for AML and MDS are urgently needed. We have developed and performed preliminary testing of a novel, patent-protected, trispecific NK cell engager named KT1 which targets AML blasts and leukemia stem cells (LSCs) expressing CD33 and CD123 for elimination by effector cells that express CD16a/b. We plan to test the ability of KT1 to release cytokines and facilitate killing of CD33- and/or CD123-expressing targets by different types of CD16a/b-positive effector cell populations including resting natural killer (NK) cells, cytokine-induced memory-like (ML) NK cells, gamma/delta T cells, and macrophages both in vitro and in leukemic mice. We anticipate that a future treatment of AML and/or MDS with KT1 combined with a donor leukocyte transfer of allogeneic NK, ML NK, or gamma/delta T cells will have excellent therapeutic efficacy and a far better safety profile than many currently studied immunotherapies being tested in patients with AML or MDS.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Carter

Bing Carter, PhD

MD Anderson Cancer Center

Houston, Texas
United States

Targeting TP53-Y220C mutant AML

TP53-Y220C is a recurrent hotspot TP53 mutation observed predominantly in AML and MDS among hematological malignancies. This study aims to investigate the mechanism of action and therapeutic activity of PC14586, a compound designed to bind p53-Y220C protein and stabilize it in the wild-type conformation and to develop mechanism-based combinations that improve its efficacy in TP53-Y220C mutant AML.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Takahashi

Koichi Takahashi, MD

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Houston, Texas
United States

Targeting Leukemia Stem Cells with the Novel Antibody Drug Conjugate

To improve the cure rate of patients suffering from acute myeloid leukemia (AML), our study aims to target resistant leukemia stem cells by developing an 'antibody-drug conjugate' (ADC) against CD99, a protein expressed on these cells. Initial tests of two ADC versions have shown promise in combating AML. Our next steps involve refining the anti-CD99 antibody, identifying the optimal drug for conjugation, and testing the ADC on patient-derived leukemia models. Completing these objectives will pave the way for a phase 1 clinical trial, offering a potentially transformative treatment for AML.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Lee

Yoke Seng Lee, PhD

The Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Cotargeting oncogenic protein translation and apoptosis in acute myeloid leukemia

The focus of my research is to evaluate the efficacy of and to unravel the molecular mechanisms underpinning a novel drug combination in AML targeting oncogenic protein translation and apoptosis. We will utilize genetic perturbation and other orthogonal approaches, including in vitro and ex vivo assays, and in vivo AML PDX models. The goal of my research is to transform the clinical management of AML patients, particularly for relapsed and difficult-to-treat subgroups.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Chen

Bingyi Chen, PhD

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

New York, New York
United States

Targeting the cell surface U5 snRNP complex as a novel immunotherapy for AML

A major limitation of immunotherapy approaches for AML has been the lack of known targetable cell surface antigens specific to AML cells. This project characterizes the pathologic and biologic effects of a novel cell surface antigen complex uniquely present on AML cells but not normal hematopoietic precursors, known as the U5 snRNP complex. Furthermore, we will interrogates U5 snRNP complex components as novel AML-associated antigens and CAR T cells targets for AML treatment.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Takeda

Reina Takeda, MD, PhD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Mechanisms of oncogenic transcription in NPM1-mutant myeloid leukemia

NPM1-mutated leukemia is the most common AML in adult and characterized by upregulations of HOXA/B genes and MEIS1. Given the importance of oncogenic transcriptional program, I will determine regulatory molecules that cooperate with mutant NPM1 on chromatin by combining CRISPR/Cas9 screening approach in an innovative model system of endogenous transcription reporters with proteomics approach. This will facilitate identification of novel therapeutic targets specific for NPM1-mutated AML.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Sundaravel

Sriram Sundaravel, PhD

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

Bronx, New York
United States

Glycotyping as a novel approach to study leukemia stem cell heterogeneity and function

Leukemia stem cells (LSCs) are highly heterogeneous populations and key contributors to AML progression. Here, I aim to employ heparan sulfate (HS) glycotyping to resolve LSC heterogeneity. Using complementary genetic and antibody-based approaches, I will delineate the functional roles of HS pathway during AML progression. The newer insights provided by these studies could potentially uncover novel LSC therapies and facilitate diverse training for me to become an independent leukemia researcher.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Cieri

Nicoletta Cieri, MD, PhD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

TCR-like CARs targeting GvL mHAgs for the treatment of post-transplant AML relapse

AML recurrence is a devastating event after allo-HCT. I hypothesize that it could be counteracted through targeting of leukemia-restricted mHAgs via TCR-like CARs. I will identify scFVs recognizing mHAg:HLA complexes using a cell-free nanobody screening platform, and test the anti-leukemia activity and safety of CAR-Ts bearing such scFVs in vitro and in vivo. Through this approach, I will build a library of CAR constructs able to provide population-scale coverage for at-risk allo-HCT patients.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Li

Sheng Li, PhD

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, California
United States

Epigenetic heterogeneity in age-related clonal hematopoiesis and acute myeloid leukemia

Our focus is to unravel how clonal hematopoiesis (CH) progresses to leukemia. We will investigate how epigenetic heterogeneity affects Tet2-mutant hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) during aging. We plan to simultaneously trace HSC clonal identity and clonal history by genetic barcode and single-cell multi-omics and determine their epigenetic configurations adaptive in the aged, inflammatory bone marrow. The long-term goal is to create innovative therapeutics to mitigate CH and prolong health span.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2029
Lev Kats

Lev Kats, PhD

The University of Melbourne

Parkville, Victoria
Australia

Novel targeted therapies for acute myeloid leukaemia and multiple myeloma

Outcomes for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and multiple myeloma (MM) patients remain inadequate and new treatment options to combat resistance against existing agents are urgently needed. My research aims to identify and target selective vulnerabilities of AML and MM cells. I am particularly interested in epigenetic and metabolic pathways that control self-renewal and differentiation of hematopoietic cells and that can be leveraged to modulate cell fate for therapeutic benefit.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2024 End Date: June 30, 2029
Ryvu

Ryvu Therapeutics, SA

TAP Partner

Krakow
Poland

A phase 2 study of RVU120, a novel CDK8 inhibitor, in combination with venetoclax in patients with AML

In August 2017, LLS TAP partnered with Ryvu Therapeutics (formerly known as Selvita) to support "A Phase 1b Study of SEL120 in Patients With Acute Myeloid Leukemia or High-risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome."

Ryvu Therapeutics is a clinical-stage drug discovery and development company focusing on novel small molecule therapies that address emerging targets in oncology using a proprietary discovery engine platform.

RVU120 (SEL120) is a highly selective first-in-class CDK8/CDK19 small molecule inhibitor. Ryvu is currently enrolling several Phase 2 clinical trials: RVU120 as monotherapy in genetically defined cohorts of patients with relapsed/refractory AML and high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (RIVER-52, NCT06268574), RVU120 in combination with venetoclax for patients with relapsed/refractory AML (RIVER-81, NCT06191263), RVU120 as monotherapy for patients with low-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (REMARK, NCT06243458) and RVU120 as monotherapy and in combination with ruxolitinib for patients with myelofibrosis (POTAMI-61, NCT06397313).

Program: Therapy Acceleration Program
Project Term: Start Date: August 7, 2017 End Date: October 15, 2024
George Vassiliou

George Vassiliou, MBBS, PhD

University of Cambridge

Cambridge
United Kingdom

Development of a clinical program for myeloid cancer prevention

The majority of myeloid cancers remain incurable. We previously showed that individuals at risk can be identified years in advance, indicating that prevention may be a viable alternative to treatment. Here, we propose a program of work to establish a clinical platform for myeloid cancer prevention. This includes development of a screening strategy, improved understanding of myeloid cancer evolution, identification of treatment targets and establishment of a specialized clinic to deliver therapy.

Program: Specialized Center of Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: February 1, 2024 End Date: January 31, 2029
Kymera

Kymera Therapeutics, INC

TAP Partner

Watertown, Massachusetts
United States

A phase 1 study of KT-253, a MDM2 protein degrader, in patients with AML

In March 2020, LLS made an equity investment in Kymera Therapeutics to "Support Studies with Protein Degraders for Development in Hematological Patients."

Kymera Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company founded with the mission to discover, develop, and commercialize transformative therapies while leading the evolution of targeted protein degradation, a transformative new approach to address previously intractable disease targets. Whereas most targeted therapies inhibit or inactivate the proteins or genes that drive the cancer, targeted protein degradation harnesses the body’s natural system of ridding itself of unwanted, “old” or “broken” components of cells.

KT-253 is a MDM2 protein degrader and is enrolling AML patients in a Phase 1 clinical trial (NCT05775406).

Program: Therapy Acceleration Program
Project Term: Start Date: March 11, 2020 End Date: October 15, 2024
Jennifer Lewis

Jennifer Lewis

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

New York, New York
United States

Development of Immunotherapy Targeting U5 snRNP200 for the Treatment of Hematologic Malignancies

The therapeutic landscape of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has witnessed considerable expansion following recent U.S. FDA endorsements of novel therapies; however, the 5-year survival rate for most adult patients remains below 10%. The absence of immunotherapeutic options for AML can be attributed, in part, to the dearth of identified antigens that selectively discriminate between AML cells and normal hematopoietic precursor cells. Through extensive investigative efforts, our laboratory has made a significant discovery of a membrane antigen, U5 snRNP200, which exhibits promising potential for Fc-engineered anti-U5 snRNP200 therapy. The overarching objective of this endeavor is to engender a novel cellular immunotherapeutic modality with the potential for broad therapeutic impact across a diverse spectrum of myeloid and lymphoid hematologic malignancies.

Program: Underrepresented Minority Medical Student Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2024
Dr. Goldfinger

Mendel Goldfinger, MD

Montefiore Medical Center

Bronx, New York
United States

Metabolically Optimized, Non-cytotoxic Low Dose Weekly Decitabine/Venetoclax in MDS and AML

Dr. Mendel Goldfinger and collaborators of Einstein have shown in a preliminary trial that weekly low dose decitabine plus one a week venetoclax is highly effective in newly diagnosed patients with MDS or AML. The regimen has reduced toxicity compared to the current dose and schedule of azacitidine plus venetoclax. The proposed new work is attempting to demonstrate in a prospective trial at 3 sites that this data can be replicated and expanded.

Program: Special Grants
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2023 End Date: September 30, 2024
Dr. Jordan

Craig Jordan, PhD

University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus

Aurora, Colorado
United States

Therapeutic targeting of AML stem cells 2023

The goal of this SCOR project is to identify and eradicate the root cause of acute myeloid leukemia, the so-called leukemia stem cell (LSC). In the previous cycle of this SCOR grant, we developed two unique strategies, each of which efficiently eradicates LSCs in the laboratory. Going forward, we will expand our scientific efforts to further improve these approaches and also conduct clinical trials to determine whether our approaches to killing LSCs will benefit AML patients.

Program: Specialized Center of Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2023 End Date: September 30, 2028
Dr. Konopleva

Marina Konopleva, MD, PhD

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

Bronx, New York
United States

Targeting metabolic reprogramming in MDS and AML stem/progenitor cells

Myelodysplastic neoplasms are malignant disorders driven by expansion of diseased hematopoietic stem cells and progression to leukemia. Our investigations have identified the important role of the transporter of amino acid glutamine SLC38A1 in sustaining metabolic demands of rapidly growing malignant stem cells. The goal of this project is to genetically target this transporter to understand its role on tumorigenesis and progression; and to develop SLC38A1 inhibitors as novel therapeutic tools.

Program: Discovery
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2023 End Date: September 30, 2026
Kimberly Stegmaier

Kimberly Stegmaier, MD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

New Targeted Therapies for Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Our research focuses on the preclinical evaluation of new targeted therapies for high-risk subtypes of childhood AML. We are deploying screening approaches to delete each gene, one-by-one, to identify genes whose deletion leads to death of the leukemia cells. We will evaluate drugs developed against these targets in state-of-the-art models of pediatric AML. Our goal is to translate the most promising findings to clinical trials for children with these very poor outcome subsets of AML.

Program: Dare to Dream
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2025
Dr. Walter

Roland Walter, MD PhD

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

Seattle, Washington
United States

211Astatine-CD123 Radioimmunotherapy for Cancer (Stem) Cell-Directed Treatment of Acute Leukemia

Because acute leukemias are very sensitive to radiation, radioisotopes are ideal payloads to arm antibodies against these difficult-to-cure, aggressive blood cancers. Here, we will develop fully human anti-CD123 antibodies carrying the highly potent alpha-emitter astatine-211 (211At) as a new therapy for acute leukemia. CD123 is broadly displayed on acute leukemia cells in most patients and overexpressed on leukemic stem cells but is only found on a small subset of normal blood cells, enabling the use of 211At-CD123 radioimmunotherapy in the transplant and non-transplant setting with limited toxicities to normal tissues.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2026
dr. Fehniger

Todd Fehniger, MD PhD

Washington University in St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri
United States

NK cell immunotherapy to reduce relapse after haploidentical transplant for high-risk pediatric AML

Leukemia recurrence remains the most common type of treatment failure after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant for children and young adults with high-risk acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), occurring in 40-50% of patients. Novel treatment strategies are needed to attain durable remissions and provide long-term cure. We have developed a novel memory-like (ML) NK cell immunotherapy that has demonstrated potent activity against AML in preclinical and early clinical studies. We propose a new clinical trial combining donor-derived ML NK cells adoptive cellular therapy with modified αβT cell-depleted haploidentical HCT to enhance graft-versus-leukemia and reduce relapse in pediatric and young adult patients with high-risk AML.

Program: Academic Clinical Trials Program (ACT)
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2026
Venkata Lokesh Battula

Venkata Lokesh Battula, PhD

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Houston, Texas
United States

Arming NK Cells to Target B7-H3+ AML Cells

In order to develop a novel immunotherapy approach to treating AML, we propose targeting B7-H3 (CD276), a promising immune checkpoint that has been reported to inhibit NK cell activation. We have generated a novel anti–B7-H3 monoclonal antibody (T-1A5) to block B7-H3 function, showing the best in vitro and in vivo activity against AML cells. We will test the hypothesis that combination strategies such as targeting B7-H3 along with BCL2 inhibition (venetoclax) or IL-15r agonist (NKTR-255) result in synergistic inhibition of AML growth.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 1, 2026
Dr. Wang

Jenny Wang, PhD

The University of Sydney

Sydney
Australia

Strategic combinations to overcome therapeutic resistance and relapse in acute myeloid leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most fatal type of leukemia and has a high rate of relapse following current therapies. We have recently uncovered that RSPO3-LGR4 pathway is a key regulator of leukemia-initiating cell activity and is exclusively activated in relapsed and refractory AML. Our project aims to investigate the mechanistic link between the pathway activation and therapy resistance, and design combination therapies that would overcome resistance and improve the treatment of relapsed leukemia.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Gottschalk

Stephen Gottschalk, MD

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Memphis, Tennessee
United States

CD70-directed CAR T-cell therapy for the treatment of relapsed/refractory pediatric AML

In this project, we will test an innovative therapy called CAR T-cell therapy for children with a type of cancer called AML. In the laboratory, we have identified and developed a powerful CAR T-cell therapy that targets a protein called CD70 on AML cells. We propose to now develop a clinical trial in which we will study the effects of this CD70.CAR T-cell therapy in children with AML.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Stahl

Maximilian Stahl, MD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Memory-like natural killer cells and venetoclax to eradicate measurable residual disease in AML

This proposal is to conduct a phase I (early phase) clinical trial to test whether the combination of the approved targeted therapy venetoclax with memory-like Natural Killer (NK) cells is safe and active in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Based on laboratory research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we believe that the addition of memory-like NK cells obtained from an haploidentical (‘half matched’) donor will be able to eradicate residual leukemia cells left over after prior venetoclax treatment and hence prevent a future relapse of the disease. A total of 10 patients will be treated with two different doses of NK cells and a constant dose of venetoclax. We also plan scientific studies on patient samples to learn more about the function of NK cells when combined with venetoclax, evaluate for clearance of residual leukemia cells with this combination therapy and explore potential resistance mechanisms.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Genovese

Pietro Genovese, PhD

Boston Children's Hospital

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Towards clinical testing of epitope editing to enable novel adoptive immunotherapies

Innovations in gene engineering have made it possible to reprogram immune cells to attack specific targets on cancer cells, allowing the first adoptive cellular immunotherapies, known as CAR T cells, to be approved by the FDA for the treatment B lymphoblastic leukemia. A similar approach is currently under development for AML, but in contrast to B-ALL, there is no leukemia-specific target which would be amenable to targeting by immune cells without incurring severe adverse effects. Here, we aim to modify normal bone marrow stem cells used for allogeneic transplantation to make them resistant to CAR-T cells, thus enabling targeting proteins essential for tumor survival without the risk of severe toxicity on the healthy tissue counterpart.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Yonezawa

Taishi Yonezawa, PhD

Baylor College of Medicine

Houston, Texas
United States

Uncovering mechanisms of DNMT3A stability in hematologic malignancies

DNMT3A is a critical tumor suppressor in hematologic malignancies; DNMT3A protein levels affect both tumor latency and type. DNMT3A is regulated in part by protein stability, but the mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Here, I will dissect the mechanisms that regulate DNMT3A protein turnover using CRISPR screening and genetically engineered mouse leukemia models. This work will reveal whether its stabilization could contribute to a new therapeutic approach for hematologic malignancies.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Parsons

Tyler Parsons, PhD

Washington University in St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri
United States

Mechanisms of Clonal Evolution in the Transformation of MPN to sAML

This research will investigate blood stem cell mutations associated with progression of myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) to secondary acute myeloid leukemia (sAML). Our preliminary data suggest that pre-leukemic cells with particular mutations may have a selective advantage in a background of certain MPN subtypes. We will confirm this by utilizing mouse models and both MPN and sAML primary patient samples. Ultimately, we will examine and test inhibition of mechanisms which drive MPN to sAML.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Mistry

Jayna Mistry, PhD

The Jackson Laboratory

Bar Harbor, Maine
United States

Bone Marrow Stromal Cell Senescence Induced by Dnmt3a-Mutant Hematopoiesis Drives Clonal Hematopoiesis and Transformation to Myeloid Malignancy

This project focuses on how age-associated clonal hematopoiesis (CH) alters the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment, and whether this promotes transformation of CH to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). I will utilize single cell RNA-seq data, genetic knockout models, and targeted inhibitors to perturb the non-hematopoietic and hematopoietic compartments of a mouse model of CH. The goal is to determine if manipulation of the BM microenvironment can attenuate CH and prevent AML transformation.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Marinaccio

Christian Marinaccio, PhD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Identification and characterization of genetic factors affecting MLL/KMT2A fusion proteins stability in MLL/KMT2A rearranged leukemias

MLL1/KMT2A rearranged leukemias are the most common blood cancer occurring in children characterized by dismal prognosis. Given the importance of fusion proteins in driving the disease, I will determine factors affecting the fusion protein stability through a CRISPR/Cas9 screening approach in an innovative model system where the MLL fusions are endogenously tagged with a fluorescent protein. This will facilitate development of molecular glue degraders specifically targeting the MLL fusions.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Montefiori

Lindsey Montefiori, PhD

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Memphis, Tennessee
United States

Molecular basis and new therapeutic strategies in lineage ambiguous leukemia

Lineage-ambiguous leukemias are high-risk blood cancers with unclear biologic basis and suboptimal treatment options. Here, I will identify the cell of origin of lineage ambiguous leukemia and investigate new therapeutic strategies through in vitro and in vivo experimental modeling approaches and preclinical drug studies in patient-derived xenografts. These studies will clarify the cellular and molecular alterations driving lineage ambiguity and advance a new, rational therapeutic approach.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2025
Dr. Zhang

Christine Zhang, PhD

Washington University in St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri
United States

Deciphering the role of p53 signaling in NPM1-mutant AML

NPM1c and TP53 mutations are exclusive in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) despite both being commonly present in patients, suggesting a fitness disadvantage for cells with co-occurring mutations. However, the mechanisms underlying this exclusivity have not been explored. This project will utilize novel models to dissect the importance of TP53 signaling in NPM1c+ (pre)-leukemic stem cells. Generated results may highlight therapeutic opportunities for improved risk management of NPM1c+ AML patients.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2025
Dr. Liu

Yiman Liu, PhD

Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
United States

Investigating the impact of hotspot mutations in a chromatin reader on leukemogenesis

The goal of this proposal is to investigate the consequence of the chromatin reader eleven-nineteen-leukemia (ENL) gain-of-function mutations in the pathogenesis of leukemia. Our studies leverage the expertise in the molecular and chromatin biology of chromatin reader in leukemia utilizing mouse model, high resolution image, epigenomic and transcriptomic approaches. Our goal is to understand how chromatin reader contributes to cancer development, progression, and therapeutic outcome.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2025
Dr. Collins

Cailin Collins, MD PhD

Stanford University

Palo Alto, California
United States

Investigating the role of preleukemia duration and clonal burden in progression to AML

The development of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is preceded by a “preleukemic” phase in which mutated hematopoietic stem cells expand due to a fitness advantage. Our work uses prospective models and analysis of patient samples to study how the duration of preleukemia and how the preleukemic clonal burden affect progression to AML. Results of our studies will shed new light on AML pathogenesis and help guide clinical management of preleukemic conditions such as clonal hematopoiesis.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Wan

Liling Wan, PhD

Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
United States

Epigenetic Mechanisms in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

The goal of this project is to investigate the role of the epigenetic regulator Eleven-Nineteen-Leukemia (ENL) and its cancer mutations in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Our studies leverage the expertise in chromatin biology, functional genomics, and AML modeling, as well as unique chemical compounds and mouse models. Results from this project will provide novel biological insights into our understanding of AML pathogenesis and facilitate the development of novel epigenetic therapies.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2028
Dr. Pietras

Eric Pietras, PhD

University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus

Denver, Colorado
United States

Targeting the pathogenic 'fire triangle' of inflammation, metabolism and mutations in myeloid leukemogenesis

My lab is focused on understanding the pathogenic interplay between oncogenic mutations, chronic inflammation and aberrant metabolism as a driver of the evolutionary processes that culminate in lethal myeloid malignancies. We leverage mouse models and human patient samples to establish modalities for targeting this interplay throughout disease pathogenesis. My long-term goal is to improve patient outcomes by establishing therapies that prevent and/or delay evolution to acute leukemia.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2028
Dr. Bjelosevic

Stefan Bjelosevic, PhD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Metabolic Regulation of Leukemic Cell Fate

Cell-intrinsic metabolic processes are dysregulated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and can act to sustain an oncogenic state of differentiation arrest. Using AML cell lines and patient-derived material grown in sophisticated liquid culture medium that mimics human plasma, we will perform metabolically focused in vitro and in vivo CRISPR-Cas9 screens to reveal metabolic regulators of AML cell fate that can be exploited via dietary or pharmacologic intervention as a novel therapeutic strategy.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2023 End Date: June 30, 2026
Dr. Mak

Tak Mak, PhD

Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network

Toronto, Ontario
Canada

The Immune Niche in the Development of Hematological Malignancies and Implications for Novel Therapy

Our SCOR Program, composed of four complementary Projects supported by three shared Cores, is designed to determine how the immune niche and factors in its composition and regulation affect the initiation and progression of hematopoietic malignancies. Using genetically engineered mouse models, cell cultures and patient samples, the power of multi-omics analyses will be brought to bear to identify common drivers and expose underlying mechanisms. Findings from this work should reveal multiple candidate therapeutic targets whose exploitation may lead to the development of broadly applicable therapeutics for leukemias/lymphomas. Partnerships with pre-clinical and clinical trials experts at our home institutions and beyond will facilitate the translation of our findings to the bedside and potentially provide new hope to patients suffering from these devastating cancers.

Program: Specialized Center of Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2022 End Date: September 30, 2027
Dr. Soiffer

Robert Soiffer, MD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Understanding and Overcoming Mechanisms of Immune Evasion after Allogeneic Transplant

Outcomes for patients with acute myelogenous leukemia who relapse after transplantation are dismal. This SCOR brings together an international group of collaborators with deep expertise in genomics, epigenetics, antigen presentation, and immune-regulation. They will focus on mechanisms of immune evasion by leukemia cells, identifying effective T cell responses to those evasive processes, and providing critical insights into the optimal approaches to model new and promising targets for immunotherapy with a goal of eliminating leukemia recurrence.

 

Program: Specialized Center of Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2022 End Date: September 30, 2027
Dr. Godley

Lucy Godley, MD PhD

Northwestern University

Evanston, Illinois
United States

CHEK2 as a predisposition gene for clonal hematopoiesis and hematopoietic malignancies

This proposal explores how inherited mutations in the DNA repair gene CHEK2 lead to blood cancers. Our work employs two unique resources: patient-derived cell lines and mice engineered with an inherited Chek2 variant that accurately models how bone marrow stem cells acquire DNA changes over time leading to bone marrow cancers. Our results may lead to new approaches that slow or prevent blood cancers in people with high risk.

Program: Discovery
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2022 End Date: September 30, 2025
Michael Kharas

Michael Kharas, PhD

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

New York, New York
United States

Discovering the function and targeting dysregulated nuclear condensates in myeloid leukemia

Although molecular targeted therapy has dramatically changed how we treat cancer, the treatment for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains focused on the use of cytotoxic drugs with many patients eventually relapsing with their disease. Our studies have a uncovered a new nuclear structure that is dysregulated in myeloid leukemia. This proposal studies the identity and function of this nuclear body in human AML and strives to identify novel therapeutic strategies and targets in leukemia.

Program: Discovery
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2022 End Date: September 30, 2025
Dr. Jaiswal

Siddhartha Jaiswal , MD PhD

Stanford University

Stanford, California
United States

Uncovering the role of TCL1A as a driver of clonal hematopoiesis and hematological malignancies

Mutations in a diverse set of genes can lead to pre-cancerous expansion of blood stem cells, but the factors that mediate the growth of these mutant clones are unknown. We recently discovered that many of these mutations lead to abnormal activation of a gene called TCL1A. Consequently, TCL1A may be an attractive target for treating or preventing blood cancers, but little is known about its function. Here, we will uncover how TCL1A influences the biology of pre-cancerous blood stem cells.

Program: Discovery
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2022 End Date: September 30, 2025
Dr. Gill

Saar Gill, MD PhD

Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
United States

Role of the AML "Immunome" in response and failure of chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy

Most patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are not cured with chemotherapy alone, and most long-term survivors of AML have undergone an allogeneic stem cell transplant (also known as bone marrow transplant). The outlook is quite grim for patients whose AML relapses after transplant. We have developed a new type of treatment for AML called chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells for these patients. The goal of this project is to investigate how to improve CAR T cells for AML.

Program: Discovery
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2022 End Date: September 30, 2025
Dr. Jones

Courtney Jones, PhD

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

Cincinnati, Ohio
United States

Interrogation of glutathione biology in relapsed acute myeloid leukemia stem cells

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a devastating blood cancer. Most AML patients will initially respond to standard therapy; however, for many patients the disease recurs resulting in patient death. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop new therapeutic strategies for relapsed AML patients. The objective of our proposal is to understand and target properties specific to relapsed AML cells with the overall goal of improving relapsed AML patient outcomes.

Program: Discovery
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2022 End Date: September 30, 2025
Kathleen Sakamoto

Kathleen Sakamoto, PhD, MD

Stanford University

Palo Alto, California
United States

Niclosamide for the Treatment of Relapsed/Refractory Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Niclosamide is an FDA approved anti-parasitic drug that is well tolerated and acts synergistically with chemotherapy to kill AML cells. We will conduct a Phase I clinical trial with niclosamide in combination with cytarabine for children with relapsed/refractory pediatric AML. ShRNA/CRISPR screens demonstrated that Bcl-2 is upregulated in niclosamide resistant cells. We will study the effects of the Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax in combination with niclosamide in pediatric AML.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: June 30, 2022 End Date: June 30, 2025
Dr. Nassar

Nicolas Nassar, PhD

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

Cincinnati, Ohio
United States

Overcoming RAS-driven Mechanisms of Resistance in Leukemia

The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is activated in high-risk leukemia and is a hallmark of resistance to therapies. This project uses patient-derived xenograft models of relapsed pediatric ALL and AML with activated RAS/MAPK to test whether clinically relevant MAPK mutations activate the VAV3/RAC pathway and if pharmacological inhibition of that pathway by a small molecule we developed synergizes with a MAPK-inhibitor to provide a new treatment strategy for RAS-driven leukemia.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2022 End Date: June 30, 2025
Dr. Wen

Hong Wen, PhD

Van Andel Research Institute

Grand Rapids, Michigan
United States

Investigating and targeting the histone acetylation reader protein ENL in acute leukemias

Leukemia often results from aberrant gene expression caused by epigenetic alterations. Previously we discovered a novel histone acetylation reader domain in the ENL protein and demonstrated that this domain is essential for the survival of a wide range of acute leukemias, making it an attractive therapeutic target. We will develop specific inhibitors of ENL activity in acute leukemias and will use mouse models to define the role of ENL mutations identified in patients in leukemogenesis.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2022 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. McNerney

Megan McNerney, MD PhD

The University of Chicago

Chicago, Illinois
United States

Genomic interrogation of high-risk myeloid neoplasms to identify new therapies

The long-term goal of my research program is to improve the outcomes for patients with high-risk myeloid blood cancers, particularly those with loss of chromosome 7 or CUX1. We are tackling this question using an arsenal of innovative methods and tools, including mouse models, human cells and patient samples, and state-of-the-art technologies to examine the cancer cell genome. Accomplishing this work will reveal new treatments and strategies for preventing blood cancers from arising.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2022 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Maxson

Julia Maxson, PhD

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, Oregon
United States

Targeting the interplay between signaling and transcriptional dysfunction in myeloid leukemias

Our research program is focused on understanding the intersection between signaling and transcriptional dysfunction in myeloid leukemias. We leverage murine models, cell lines and human samples to uncover how biological context shapes the manifestation of oncogenic programs at the molecular level. Our long-term goal is to harness this knowledge to identify multipronged therapeutic strategies that improve outcomes for patients with myeloid malignancies.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2022 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Lindsley

Coleman Lindsley, MD PhD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Genetic pathways of myeloid transformation and treatment response

Our central goal is to improve clinical outcomes in patients with myeloid malignancies through developing an enhanced mechanistic understanding of disease. We use multiomic analyses of primary patient samples combined with complementary laboratory models using mice and cell lines to generate and test our hypotheses. The results of our studies will help improve patient outcomes by identifying strategies to mitigate risk of disease progression/relapse and treatment toxicity.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2022 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Takahashi

Koichi Takahashi, MD

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Houston, Texas
United States

Understanding the clonal origin, evolution, and progression of myeloid malignancies

The overarching focus of my research is to understand the clonal origin, evolution, and progression of myeloid malignancies and biological and clinical factors that influence the process. We tackle this question by analyzing patient samples with integrated approach combining single-cell omics, evolutionary genetics, and computational analytics. The ultimate goal of our research is to develop clinical strategies for early detection, prevention, and treatments of myeloid malignancies.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2022 End Date: June 30, 2027
Dr. Baeten

Jeremy Baeten, PhD

Washington University in St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri
United States

Combined targeting of ATR and replicative stress in TP53-mutated AML

This research will test a promising new drug combination in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) carrying TP53 gene mutations, which is resistant to chemotherapy and has a median survival of less than 5 months. Our preliminary data show that TP53-mutated AML is selectively sensitive to the combination of an ATR inhibitor and decitabine. We will confirm activity of this novel drug combination using mouse models of leukemia and human AML samples and explore mechanisms of responsiveness.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2022 End Date: June 30, 2024
Dr. Booth

Christopher Booth, PhD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Mechanisms of Pathogenesis by MYB Fusions in Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm

The transcription factor MYB has long been associated with leukemia, but how it contributes to disease is poorly understood. Fusions of MYB to other proteins, causing MYB activation, are found in patients with Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm (BPDCN), but rare in other leukemias. I am using recently developed techniques to gain insight into how MYB fusions cause BPDCN. This will enable both new treatments for BPDCN and better understanding of the role of MYB in other leukemias.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2022 End Date: June 30, 2024
Dr. Luo

Qingyu Luo, MD PhD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Defining PIK3R5-related PI3K gamma dependency as a novel therapeutic target in blood cancers including BPDCN

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is an aggressive blood cancer without adequate treatment. In a genome-wide CRISPR interference screen, BPDCN was highly dependent on the PI3Kγ pathway and specifically the PIK3R5 adaptor subunit. A subset of leukemias may share this vulnerability. We will interrogate the mechanism of this unique dependency and integrate PIK3R5/PI3Kγ targeting with leukemia therapy. Our goal is to provide novel treatments for PIK3R5-dependent malignancies.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2022 End Date: June 30, 2025
Dr. Ferrari De Andrade

Lucas Ferrari De Andrade, PhD

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

New York, New York
United States

Optimizing MICA/B antibody for AML by selective binding to Fc activating receptors

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a blood cancer characterized by poor clinical outcomes. We developed an antibody that inhibits AML in models by triggering anti-leukemia immunity. Now we developed a new version of this antibody with higher affinity to the leukocyte receptors that mediate anti-leukemia immunity. We will establish the ability of this optimized antibody to elicit greater inhibition of AML. The studies will generate important information about how to induce anti-leukemia immunity.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2022 End Date: June 30, 2025
Jolanta Grembecka

Jolanta Grembecka, PhD

Regents of the University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, Michigan
United States

Targeted combination therapies for leukemia with NUP98 translocations

Leukemia patients with chromosomal translocations of the Nucleoporin (NUP98) gene suffer from very poor prognosis. In this project we will identify new treatment for these patients by combining menin inhibitor with FDA approved drugs. We will evaluate effectiveness, mechanism of action and biomarkers of treatment response to these combinations in advanced pre-clinical models of NUP98 leukemia. We expect these studies will lead to future clinical trials in AML patients with NUP98 translocations.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2022 End Date: June 30, 2025
Dr. Verma

Amit Verma, MBBS

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

Bronx, New York
United States

Studies on clonal hematopoiesis in the 911 WTC first responders

The terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center (WTC) created an unprecedented environmental exposure to WTC aerosolized dust and gases that contained known and suspected carcinogens including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, polychlorinated furans, dioxins and asbestos. Studies from Dr. Verma's group and others have reported an excess of cancer cases in the WTC-exposed Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) firefighters, including a trend towards higher incidence of multiple myeloma and leukemias. He now will be deep sequencing a large group of WTC-exposed firefighters to look for clonal hematopoiesis (CH) which is an acquisition of leukemia associated mutations associated with increases in the risk of hematologic cancer.

Program: Special Grants
Project Term: Start Date: June 1, 2022 End Date: October 15, 2024
ImCheck

ImCheck Therapeutics, SAS

TAP Partner

Marseille
France

A phase 2 expansion study of ICT01, an anti-BTN3A monoclonal antibody, in combination with azacitidine and venetoclax in patients with AML

In June 2022, LLS made an equity investment in ImCheck Therapeutics to "Support Clinical Development of the ICT01 Program for Blood Cancer Indications."

ImCheck Therapeutics is designing and developing a new generation of immunotherapeutic antibodies targeting butyrophilins, a novel super-family of immunomodulators.

ICT01 is a humanized, anti-BTN3A (also known as CD277) monoclonal antibody that selectively activates γ9δ2 T cells, which are part of the innate immune system that is responsible for immunosurveillance of malignancy and infections. The EVICTION study is currently enrolling a Phase 2 cohort expansion of ICT01 in combination with azacitidine and venetoclax in patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (NCT04243499).

Program: Therapy Acceleration Program
Project Term: Start Date: June 13, 2022 End Date: October 15, 2024
Dr. Catherine Smith

Catherine Smith, MD

University of California San Francisco

San Francisco, California
United States

SHP2 and BCL2 Inhibition in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

The goal of our work is to use a “bench to bedside and back” approach to develop new treatments for patients with relapsed/refractory AML. Through genetic analysis of patients who relapse or do not respond to standard and investigational treatments, we discover potential resistance mechanisms. In the lab, we test novel drugs and identify new drug targets that may address these resistance mechanisms when used in combination with other therapies. The overall goal of our research program is to improve treatment options and survival of patients with refractory AML.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2026
Dr. Ann-Kathrin Eisfeld

Ann-Kathrin Eisfeld, MD

The Ohio State University

Columbus, Ohio
United States

Improving the outcomes of young Black adults diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia

Young Black patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have significantly shorter survival compared to White patients. To comprehensively assess genetic, genomic and biologic contributors to the race-associated survival disparity, we propose a complementary approach that addresses major knowledge gaps in our current understanding of AML biology in Black patients, including the overdue characterization of the Black AML genome and subsequent delineation of biologic response to treatment.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2024
Dr. Timothy Graubert

Timothy Graubert, MD

Massachusetts General Hospital

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Exploiting Vulnerabilities in RNA Splicing to Treat Hematologic Malignancies

RNA splicing is a central metabolic pathway that is frequently perturbed in hematopoietic malignancies (HMs) that harbor mutations in spliceosome components (most commonly affecting SRSF2, SF3B1, U2AF1, or ZRSR2). These mutations are particularly prevalent in myeloid malignancies (e.g., MDS, MDS/MPN, sAML), but recent pan-cancer studies have implicated aberrant splicing in >30 tumor types. The Project Leaders have probed the molecular consequences of aberrant splicing and identified critical pathways that are amenable to targeted inhibition, including the DNA damage response (Graubert/Walter), the nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD) pathway (You/Walter), the spliceosome itself (Abdel-Wahab/Walter/Graubert), and others. To date, effective therapies for HMs have not capitalized on these unique vulnerabilities. The goal of this SCOR is to generate testable clinical hypotheses based on careful mechanistic studies in pre-clinical models and to rapidly move these ideas into the clinic in the near term.

Program: Specialized Center of Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2026
Caribou

Caribou Biosciences, INC

TAP Partner

Berkeley, California
United States

A phase 1 study of CB-012, a CRISPR-edited allogeneic CAR-T targeting CLL1, in patients with acute myeloid leukemia

In February 2021, LLS made an equity investment in Caribou Biosciences to "Support allogeneic CD371 (CLL-1) CAR development for acute myeloid leukemia."

Caribou is a clinical-stage biotechnology company, co-founded by CRISPR pioneer and Nobel Prize winner Jennifer Doudna, Ph.D., using next-generation CRISPR genome-editing technology to develop “off-the-shelf” (allogeneic) CAR therapies for hard-to-treat blood cancers.

CB-012, an allogeneic CLL1 CAR-T cell therapy engineered with five genome edits, is the first allogeneic CAR-T cell therapy with both checkpoint disruption through a PD-1 knockout, and immune cloaking. The AMpLify Phase 1 clinical trial, which is evaluating CB-012 in patients with relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (r/r AML), is currently enrolling (NCT06128044).

Program: Therapy Acceleration Program
Project Term: Start Date: February 28, 2021 End Date: October 15, 2024
Jaroslaw Maciejewski

Jaroslaw Maciejewski, MD, PhD

Cleveland Clinic Foundation

Cleveland, Ohio
United States

HLA Mutations, GvH Resistance and Relapse Following Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant

This project investigates immunogenetic determinants of relapse following allogeneic stem cell transplant for myeloid neoplasia. Herein we will determine molecular modes of inactivation of HLA immunodominant peptide-presentation including HLA mutations, deletion and down modulation as a means of immunoescape. We will also study immunogenetic predictors of the strength of graft vs. leukemia according to the HLA divergence in the context of relapse, TCR repertoire diversity and HLA mutations.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: November 1, 2021 End Date: October 31, 2024
Kura

Kura Oncology, INC

TAP Partner

San Diego, California
United States

A phase 2 registration-directed clinical study of ziftomenib (KO-539), a menin inhibitor, in patients with NPM1-mutant relapsed or refractory AML

Starting in July 2010, LLS TAP supported a promising University of Michigan research project led by Jolanta Grembecka, PhD, to develop new treatments for patients with a rare and lethal subtype of leukemia. Through TAP, LLS engaged chemists to improve the properties that produced lead compounds that exhibited potent anti-leukemic activity. In 2014, LLS introduced Kura Oncology to the project that ultimately led to Kura Oncology completing a licensing agreement with the University of Michigan to continue to develop these molecules.

Kura Oncology is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to realizing the promise of precision medicines for the treatment of cancer with a pipeline that consists of small molecule drug candidates that target cancer signaling pathways.

Ziftomenib (KO-539) is selective small molecule inhibitor of menin. Ziftomenib is currently in a Phase 2 registration-directed clinical trial in patients with NPM1-mutant relapsed or refractory AML (NCT04067336). 

Program: Therapy Acceleration Program
Project Term: Start Date: December 22, 2014 End Date: October 15, 2024
Immune-Onc

Immune-Onc Therapeutics, INC

TAP Partner

Palo Alto, California
United States

A phase 1 expansion study of IO-202, an antibody targeting LILRB4, in combination with azacitidine in patients with monocytic differentiation AML and CMML

In March 2021, LLS made an equity investment in Immune-Onc Therapeutics to support the "Phase 1 Clinical Development of IO-202, An Antibody Targeting LILRB4, for the Treatment of AML with Monocytic Differentiation and CMML."

Immune-Onc is a private, clinical-stage cancer immunotherapy company dedicated to the discovery and development of novel myeloid checkpoint inhibitors for cancer patients. The company aims to translate unique scientific insights in myeloid cell biology and immune inhibitory receptors to discover and develop first-in-class biotherapeutics that reverse immune suppression in the tumor microenvironment. Immune-Onc has a differentiated pipeline with a current focus on targeting the Leukocyte Immunoglobulin-Like Receptor subfamily B (LILRB) of myeloid checkpoints. The company’s work builds on early research by Chengcheng (Alec) Zhang, Ph.D. at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center that was also funded by LLS grants.

IO-202 is a first-in-class antibody targeting the LILRB4 and has entered a phase 1 cohort expansion clinical trial (NCT0437243) for the treatment of AML (IO-202 in combination with azacitidine) and CMML (IO-202 in combination with azacitidine). 

Program: Therapy Acceleration Program
Project Term: Start Date: March 5, 2021 End Date: October 15, 2024
Ryvu

Ryvu Therapeutics, SA

TAP Partner

Krakow
Poland

A phase 2 study of RVU120, a novel CDK8 inhibitor, in genetically defined cohorts of patients with AML and high-risk MDS

In August 2017, LLS TAP partnered with Ryvu Therapeutics (formerly known as Selvita) to support "A Phase 1b Study of SEL120 in Patients With Acute Myeloid Leukemia or High-risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome."

Ryvu Therapeutics is a clinical-stage drug discovery and development company focusing on novel small molecule therapies that address emerging targets in oncology using a proprietary discovery engine platform.

RVU120 (SEL120) is a highly selective first-in-class CDK8/CDK19 small molecule inhibitor. Ryvu is currently enrolling several Phase 2 clinical trials: RVU120 as monotherapy in genetically defined cohorts of patients with relapsed/refractory AML and high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (RIVER-52, NCT06268574), RVU120 in combination with venetoclax for patients with relapsed/refractory AML (RIVER-81, NCT06191263), RVU120 as monotherapy for patients with low-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (REMARK, NCT06243458) and RVU120 as monotherapy and in combination with ruxolitinib for patients with myelofibrosis (POTAMI-61, NCT06397313).

Program: Therapy Acceleration Program
Project Term: Start Date: August 7, 2017 End Date: October 15, 2024
Daniel Lucas

Daniel Lucas, PhD

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

Cincinnati, Ohio
United States

Cellular Crosstalk In The Normal And Malignant Bone Marrow

We want to understand how leukemia inhibits blood production as this is one of the main causes of death in leukemia patients. We use new microscopy techniques developed by our group to image—for the first time—all types of blood cells and how they are eradicated by leukemia cells. Identification of the mechanisms through which leukemia inhibits blood production will be the foundation for new studies to develop drugs to maintain normal blood levels and prevent death in leukemia patients.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2026
Jeffrey Magee

Jeffrey Magee, PhD, MD

Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri
United States

Neonatal origins of pediatric AML

Coming soon.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2021 End Date: June 30, 2026
Ravindra Majeti

Ravindra Majeti, PhD, MD

Stanford

Palo Alto, California
United States

Clonal Evolution of Pre-Leukemic Hematopoietic Stem Cells in Human Myeloid Malignancies

It has been demonstrated that most cases of AML are associated with mutations in multiple genes. Dr. Majeti's studies will provide novel insights into the genetic events and other factors such as the microenvironment that affect in the development of myeloid malignancies, particularly AML. This study will have significant implications for the prevention and treatment of myeloid malignancies, particularly AML.

Program: Discovery
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2020 End Date: June 30, 2024
Kasey Leger

Kasey Leger, MD

Seattle Children's Hospital

Seattle, Washington
United States

Cardioprotective Strategies and Cardiotoxicity Prediction in Children with Acute Myeloid Leukemia

We seek to reduce the adverse cardiac effects of chemotherapy in pediatric AML patients. We are assessing markers of heart function and injury to compare two clinical strategies for prevention of chemotherapy-induced heart injury. We are also developing a tool using these markers of heart function to characterize a child’s risk for cardiac dysfunction, which is critical to guiding safe chemotherapy delivery. By reducing the toxicity of therapy on the heart we hope to optimize delivery of effective chemotherapy and contribute to long-term leukemia cure without the burden of life-threatening heart disease during survivorship.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2019 End Date: June 30, 2024
Soheil Meshinchi

Soheil Meshinchi, PhD, MD

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center

Seattle, Washington
United States

Multi-modal Immunotherapeutic Targeting of AML-restricted Targets in Infants and Children

Advances in understanding and management of AML in children has been stagnant for decades. Observed improvements in survival are more directly linked to improvements in supportive care or risk identification rather than advances in therapeutics. Excitement around FDA approval of two new IDH1/2 inhibitors did not reach the pediatric oncology community given paucity or absence of such mutations in children. This also highlights the stark differences between AML in older adults and that in younger patients. Thus, “trickle down therapeutics” where therapies that are developed in older adults are used effectively in children is a flawed concept. Discoveries and therapeutic development in younger patients must be prioritized if meaningful advances are to be made in curing AML in younger patients. Given that AML in children is not a priority for the pharmaceutical companies, alternate mechanisms for advancing therapeutics in children and young adults should be implemented.

Program: Specialized Center of Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2026
Soheil Meshinchi

Soheil Meshinchi, PhD, MD

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center

Seattle, Washington
United States

Novel immunotherapeutic strategies in infants with high risk AML

Treatment of AML in infants is especially challenging given unique genetic make-up of the disease as well as specific susceptibilities of the host. We will leverage the RNA Seq data from over 2000 patients to discover and validate novel targets (cell surface proteins), and in collaboration with Dr. Correnti (Protein Scientist) and Dr. Fry (CART development expert) generate and test novel antibodies, ADCs, BiTEs and CARTs directed against leukemia-specific targets in infants.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2019 End Date: December 31, 2022
Rajni Kumari

Rajni Kumari, PhD

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

Bronx, New York
United States

Role of HLX in leukemia induction and maintenance

We and others have shown how HLX overexpression keeps blood cells more immature by blocking their differentiation and promoting their proliferation, a characteristic which is inherent to AML. However, whether there is a causative role of HLX in the induction of AML is still unclear. Hence, the aim of my study is to better understand, using genetically engineered mice models, retroviral models, and human AML patient samples, how HLX drives AML at molecular level. This study will uncover potential therapeutic strategies for AML treatment in future.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: April 1, 2021 End Date: March 31, 2024
Daisuke Nakada

Daisuke Nakada, PhD

Baylor College of Medicine

Houston, Texas
United States

Synergistic targeting of metabolic and epigenetic vulnerabilities in leukemia stem cells

Our lab is focused on identifying unique features that distinguishes acute myeloid leukemia (AML) stem cells from normal blood-forming stem cells. The cells that make more AML cells than others are called AML stem cells, and these cells need to be eradicated to achieve deep therapeutic responses. We believe targeting metabolism may achieve this goal and found strategies to target AML stem cell metabolism without harming normal stem cells. We hope that our study will lead to improved therapies against AML targeting metabolism to achieve deep remission with little toxicity.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2019 End Date: June 30, 2024
Stephen Nimer

Stephen Nimer, MD

University of Miami

Coral Gables, Florida
United States

Targeting Epigenetics in Myeloid Malignancies

We have a highly collaborative team of investigators, whose goal is to develop novel therapeutic approaches to MDS and AML as well as to improve current therapies for these diseases based on a detailed understanding of how epigenetic dysregulation contributes to myeloid neoplasia. We are focusing on the clonal MDS or AML cell and on the bone marrow microenvironment (BMME), including immune cells that could contribute to or limit the progression of these disorders. Our Center brings together chemists, biochemists, cellular biologists and molecular biologists, who are supported by three core facilities, including an Administrative core, an Epigenomics core and a Bioinformatics and Big data sharing core. To advance our Center’s ability to implement personalized therapies for patients with myeloid malignancies, we have generated and will generate novel reagents, and utilize state-of-the-art in vitro and in vivo assays to identify key modulators of drug sensitivity or resistance. We will focus on so-called “epigenetic-focused” therapy, realizing that many of the enzymes that regulate epigenetic control of cell fate, influence signal transduction pathways, RNA splicing events, and the activity of key cellular proteins, such as BCL2 family members and p53.

The genetic mutations that underlie myeloid malignancies have been identified, and we and others have generated mouse models that have pinpointed the role that these genes and their mutations play in normal and malignant hematopoiesis. Our institutions have biospecimen banks with large numbers of MDS and AML samples, and active clinical trial portfolios, that have led to FDA approval of a variety of novel agents, including IDH1/2 inhibitors. The next step in delineating the pathogenesis and Achilles’ heel of these disorders is to better define the role of epigenetic abnormalities play in disease initiation and progression, and to define how targeting LSD1, the CoREST complex, PRMT5 and inflammation signals may advance current treatment strategies (e.g. VEN/AZA), and to enhance the activity of promising agents currently under investigation (menin inhibitors, etc.). Identifying the dependencies and vulnerabilities created by genetic or epigenetic abnormalities will allow us to more rationally advance the treatment of myeloid malignancies, a disease focus where headway is beginning to be made.

Defining the crosstalk between different epigenetic regulators, and how they affect cellular and extracellular processes other than histone proteins, may identify unique sensitivities that can increase the therapeutic index for novel, epigenetic-focused treatments, and identify potentially synthetic-lethal combination therapies. The individual projects in our Center, cover three key aspects of gene regulation and chromatin structure. Project 1 is focused on the LSD1 demethylase, which plays a role in myeloid differentiation, Project 2 is focused on the role of PRMT5 in regulating LSC self-renewal, proliferation and survival, and the expression of potential immunogens, and Project 3 is focused on the interaction between the BMME and the epigenome in mediating sensitivity to epigenetic agents in CMML and MDS. Thus, our center will span the continuum from basic mechanisms of disease initiation and progression, to clinical issues related to therapeutic sensitivity vs. resistance.

Ramin Shiekhattar first discovered that MAO inhibitor antidepressants such as tranylcypromine (TCP), can inhibit the LSD1 demethylase. This finding led to a recently published clinical trial of AZA + TCP in MDS and AML patients led by Justin Watts, and to a new clinical program, that will be continued at Sylvester and MSKCC. They will work with Phil Cole, who founded a biotech company in 2011 that is synthesizing novel epigenetic-focused therapies, to examine how targeting the CoREST complex can synergize with clinically available MDS/ AML cells differentiation- or apoptosis-inducing agents. Several lead compounds are now being tested in the Shiekhattar and Nimer labs.

Omar Abdel-Wahab and Stephen Nimer have discovered several oncogenic functions of PRMT5, an arginine methyltransferase targeted by several small molecule inhibitors that are now in clinical trials for MDS or AML patients at Sylvester and MSKCC. They will work with Luisa Cimmino to exploit their work implicating PRMT5 in regulating homologous recombination, RNA splicing and p53 function. Maria Figueroa has extensively studied predictors of the clinical response to DNA hypomethylating agents (HMA) and has identified critical mediators of HMA resistance originating in the BMME. She will work with Ross Levine, a leader in delineating the molecular pathogenesis of hematologic malignancies, to evaluate how signals from the BMME impact the responsiveness of MDS and CMML cells to HMA combinations as well as how to overcome primary resistance to HMA by targeting key signals in the niche.

Three Cores will enable the efficient completion of our collaborative studies. Core A, the Administrative Core, will be housed at UM; it will provide infrastructure support, to optimize interactions between the various labs represented here, handle all financial and reporting aspects of the grant, assist with the SCOR site visit and the annual meeting of the Center, and maintain regulatory compliance for the Center (e.g. assuring access to bio-specimens, handling IRB and IACUC approvals, etc.). Both UM and MSKCC continue to collect MDS/AML/MPN bio-specimens. Core B, the Epigenomics Core, led by Sion Williams and Lluis Morey, will perform various NGS-based assays to assess genome-wide changes in gene expression, DNA methylation, and histone post-translational modifications. Core C, the Bioinformatics and Big Data Core, led by Stephan Schürer, will provide bioinformatics support and ensure complete and efficient sharing of data for all three projects in the SCOR.

Program: Specialized Center of Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2022 End Date: September 30, 2027
Thomas Koehnke

Thomas Koehnke, MD

Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University

Palo Alto, California
United States

The role of truncating ASXL1 mutations in disease initiation and progression of human myeloid malignancies

N/A

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2021 End Date: June 30, 2024
Stephen Oh

Stephen Oh, PhD, MD

Washington University in St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri
United States

Leveraging dysregulated signaling networks for therapeutic benefit in myeloproliferative neoplasms

The objective of this project is to decipher mechanisms driving transformation of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) to secondary acute leukemia (sAML). We have identified increased expression of DUSP6 and RSK1 in sAML patient cells. Genetic/pharmacologic targeting suggest a role for DUSP6 and RSK1 in MPN development. We thus propose studies to determine how DUSP6 and RSK1 contribute to MPN pathogenesis, and to evaluate the therapeutic potential of DUSP6 and/or RSK1 inhibition for MPN patients.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2024
Alex Kentsis

Alex Kentsis, PhD, MD

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

New York, New York
United States

Targeting kinase-dependent dysregulation of transcription factor control in acute myeloid leukemia

Defining mechanisms of dysregulated gene control are central to understanding cancer and the development of effective therapies. Our research is focused on the mechanisms of gene control dysregulation in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a refractory form of blood cancer that affects both children and adults. Using new methods for manipulating proteins, we are defining essential mechanisms by which AML cells enable cancer-causing gene expression. This work also allowed us to develop new drugs to specifically block this in cancer, but not healthy cells. Ongoing work aims to define precise mechanisms of cancerous gene control and develop definitive treatments for its control.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2019 End Date: June 30, 2024
Carl June

Carl June, MD

The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania, Medical Center

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
United States

Pan-heme CAR: Anti-CD38 CAR T cells for myeloid, lymphoid and plasma cell malignancies

Our SCOR team has a razor-sharp focus on an exciting new treatment modality for blood cancers: chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. T cells can be trained to target cancer cells by genetic modification. In fact, previous support from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society allowed us to successfully develop CAR T cells targeted to CD19, a pan-B cell marker. This treatment, generically called CART-19, was approved by the FDA in 2017 for the treatment of B-cell acute lymphoid leukemia (B-ALL) and in 2018 for some non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), with promising results in other B cell malignancies such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Thus, the development of a single therapy for a single disease (initially, CLL) paid handsome dividends when translated to a broader range of CD19-expressing malignancies (ALL, NHL).

Program: Specialized Center of Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2019 End Date: May 31, 2025
Dr. Jordan

Craig Jordan, PhD

University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus

Aurora, Colorado
United States

Therapeutic targeting of AML stem cells 2018

Our SCOR team seeks to fundamentally reinvent the ways in which physicians diagnose and treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML). For over 40 years, AML has been treated with a combination of chemotherapy drugs that have major side effects and usually only provide short-term benefit to patients. Indeed, survival rates for most AML patients are dismal, and quality of life for these patients is poor. Consequently, improved strategies for AML are a huge priority for the field. We believe that the lack of progress against AML is due to a single, fundamental failure of existing therapies: While current therapies attack leukemia cells, they fail to act against the real root of the problem, namely leukemia stem cells. It’s like mowing over weeds in a lawn. If the roots are not removed, the weed (disease) will grow back. And like eradicating the roots of weeds, AML stem cells have proved difficult to treat. This is primarily due to the fact that AML stem cells within a given patient can exist in multiple forms, each of which has a differing response to therapy. In other words, while various drugs can often kill some AML stem cells in a patient, completely eradicating all the AML stem cells can be very difficult.

Program: Specialized Center of Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2018 End Date: September 30, 2024
Daniel Pollyea

Daniel Pollyea, MD

University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus

Aurora, Colorado
United States

Targeting Leukemia Stem Cells in the Clinical Setting: The Development of A Comprehensive Program

My focus is to develop a program in which novel therapies targeting leukemia stem cells (LSCs) are tested in clinical trials. This is achieved via partnership with laboratory-based colleagues who identify vulnerabilities in LSCs. Once recognized, we find or develop drugs to exploit these weaknesses through clinical trials for acute myeloid leukemia patients. The goal is to bring forward new therapies that result in deep and durable responses, which also have the potential to cure this disease.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2019 End Date: June 30, 2024
Catriona Jamieson

Catriona Jamieson, PhD, MD

University of California, San Diego

La Jolla, California
United States

Detection and Targeting of Enzymatic Base Editing Deregulation in Leukemia Stem Cells

Dr. Jamieson is examining the role of two enzymes (APOBEC3 and ADAR1) known to mutate DNA and RNA, and their role in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and disease relapse, particularly in elderly patients.

Program: Discovery
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2020 End Date: June 30, 2024
Rizwan Romee

Rizwan Romee, MD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts
United States

Cytokine induced memory-like NK cell immunotherapy to target post transplant relapse

Coming soon.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2021 End Date: June 30, 2026
Michael Savona

Michael Savona, MD

Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Nashville, Tennessee
United States

Reaching out to underserved & minority patients with hematological diseases in the southeastern US

Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center (VICC) is the only NCI designated cancer center that serves both adult and pediatric populations in TN, one of the highest cancer-mortality states in the country. In fact, TN rural dwellers encompass about 30-50% of the states’ population, many with lower per-capita income and high school graduation rates. Influencing cancer care by facilitating underserved and minority populations to access therapeutic clinical trials as well as those focused on screening and prevention strategies remains a cornerstone objective. The Vanderbilt Health Affiliated Network (VHAN) serves as the largest provider for an organized network of hospitals, clinics, and health systems across TN. This network encompasses 12 health systems and 61 hospitals. Within VHAN, the VICC has had a formal affiliation with Baptist Memorial Healthcare Corporation (BMHCC) since 2012. BMHCC is affiliated with 22 hospitals and provides care for 8000 new cancer patients (pts) annually covering 111 counties totaling 4.3 million people. This includes 44% of the 252 counties and parishes in the Delta Regional Authority, congressionally acknowledged as the most indigent population in the US. The primary objective of the VICC community center affiliation with BMHCC is to enhance the regional level of cancer care and to advance cancer research efforts. VICC has provided guidance on a regular basis to assist BMHCC in the establishment and implementation of the Minority and Underserved National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) grant as a successful and sustainable program. BMHCC has become amongst the top recruitment sites for NCORP, with steady growth in the proportion of rural pts seen across the health system. VICC continues to be a resource for BMHCC on providing consultations, training, and best practices for specialized services such as clinical research, radiation oncology, cancer screening, stem cell transplantation and community engagement.

Program: IMPACT
Project Term: Start Date: April 1, 2021 End Date: March 31, 2026
Gianpietro Dotti

Gianpietro Dotti, MD

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, North Carolina
United States

Targeting cathepsin G in acute myeloid leukemia

We developed a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) targeting an epitope of the myeloid associated antigen cathepsin G that is processed and presented in the contest of the MHC complex in myeloid leukemic cells. T cells expressing the cathepsin G specific CAR (CG1.CAR) recognize HLA-A2+ myeloid target cells expressing cathepsin G. We intend to study efficacy and safety of CG1.CAR-T cells in preclinical models in preparation of a phase I clinical study in patients with relapsed/refractory AML.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2021 End Date: June 30, 2024
Courtney DiNardo

Courtney DiNardo, MD

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Houston, Texas
United States

Targeted therapy for AML expressing mutant RUNX1

Clinical outcome of high-risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) and AML with mutant (mt) RUNX1 is relatively poor. Supported by our preclinical data, we propose a Phase Ib clinical trial of omacetaxine mepisuccinate (OM) and venetoclax along with correlative science studies in patients with relapsed MDS or AML exhibiting mtRUNX1. Studies proposed will also determine pre-clinical activity of novel, OM-based combinations against mtRUNX1-expressing, patient-derived, pre-treatment AML cells.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2024
Courtney DiNardo

Courtney DiNardo, MD

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Houston, Texas
United States

A precision-based all-oral combination of venetoclax, oral decitabine, and IDH1/2 targeted inhibition for patients with IDH1 or IDH2 mutated AML

My ultimate goal is to develop more effective, better tolerated, and individualized treatment for patients with AML. This project focuses on AML patients with IDH1 or IDH2 mutations, with a clinical trial evaluating a combination of three agents which are effective in IDH-mutated AML. While these therapies are not curative on their own, my hope is that this combination will lead to a practice changing all-oral, outpatient, and well-tolerated curative strategy for patients with IDH-mutated AML.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2026
Brian Dalton

Brian Dalton, PhD, MD

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, Maryland
United States

Therapeutic modulation of serine availability for SF3B1-mutant myeloid malignancies

Mutations in the spliceosome gene SF3B1 are common in myeloid malignancies, but they are currently untargetable. Our previous work has shown that SF3B1 mutations reprogram energy metabolism and create vulnerability to restriction of the nonessential amino acid serine. Here we propose a preclinical project studying PEGylated cystathioinine beta synthase (pCBS), a recombinant enzyme that catabolizes serine, as a treatment for SF3B1-mutant myeloid malignancies.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2024
Sisi Chen

Sisi Chen, PhD

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

New York, New York
United States

Aberrant LZTR1 and RIT1 signaling as a driver of clonal hematopoietic disorders

Our research focuses on a novel mechanism of RAS protein regulation via the protein LZTR1, which is altered in leukemia and hinders the effectiveness of leukemia therapies. We will utilize mouse models and functional genomic studies to uncover how altered RAS degradation drives leukemia and identify novel drug targets. This effort will help us identify the clinical impact of alterations in this novel RAS pathway in patients and potential means to improve leukemia treatment.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2024
Liran Shlush

Liran Shlush, PhD, MD

Weizmann Institute of Science


Israel

Early diagnosis and treatment of pre-leukemia

In the current study we propose, based on our preliminary results, that we can reliably identify pre-AML cases out of the many individuals with age related clonal hematopoiesis (ARCH) based on clinical parameters thereby limiting the population that needs to undergo molecular testing. We have also developed a predictive model that can identify pre-AML cases years before diagnosis. We now propose to utilize this knowledge to treat high-risk individuals with ARCH, at a time point before they have developed disease, by targeting the driving alterations most associated with AML development.

Program: RTFCCR/LLS Prevention
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2018 End Date: June 30, 2023
Daniel Starczynowski

Daniel Starczynowski, PhD

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

Cincinnati, Ohio
United States

Rational therapeutic targeting of oncogenic immune signaling states in myeloid malignancies

Dr. Starczynowski is investigating the role and potential benefit of therapeutic targeting of a protein called UBE2N in acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Program: Discovery
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2020 End Date: June 30, 2024
Sarah Tasian

Sarah Tasian, MD

The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
United States

Precision Medicine Inhibitor and Immunotherapy Approaches for High-Risk Childhood Leukemias

Dr Tasian’s scientific passion is successful development of precision medicine therapies for high-risk childhood leukemia. Her translational laboratory research program focuses upon investigation of kinase inhibitors and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell immunotherapies in childhood ALL and AML using primary patient specimens and patient-derived xenograft models. Through her laboratory and clinical research, she aspires to improve cure rates and minimize toxicities for children with leukemia.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2026
Jennifer Trowbridge

Jennifer Trowbridge, PhD

The Jackson Laboratory

Bar Harbor, Maine
United States

Discovery of Aging-Driven Mechanisms Causing Clonal Hematopoiesis (CH) and its Progression to Hematological Malignancy

My research focuses on why and how risk of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) increases with aging. Studying naturally aged mouse models in combination with mice engineered to express mutations commonly found in human blood stem cells with aging, we are investigating whether certain inflammatory factors that increase during aging increase the risk of leukemia. My goal is to identify biomarkers to assess risk of AML development in aging individuals and define new therapeutic targets to prevent AML.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: January 1, 2021 End Date: December 31, 2025
Catherine Bollard

Catherine Bollard, MD

Children's Research Institute

Washington, District of Columbia
United States

T cells with native and chimeric receptors against multiple tumor targets for acute myeloid leukemia

Adoptive T cell therapies for acute myeloid leukemia face numerous hurdles such as limited target antigens, immunosuppressive tumor environment as well as the loss of efficacy due to downregulation of the targeted antigen. The goal of our project is to address some of these challenges with a single T cell product targeting multiple tumor associated antigens that have limited expression on healthy tissues via a novel combination of native T cell receptor and gene engineered CAR targeting.

Program: Translational Research Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2024
Dane Vassiliadis

Dane Vassiliadis, PhD

The University of Melbourne

Parkville, Victoria
Australia

Targeting non-genetic mechanisms of therapeutic resistance in Acute Myeloid Leukaemia

Drug resistance in AML can develop via a non-genetic process which remains poorly understood. Using our novel cellular barcoding technology that can trace the growth of thousands of cancer cells, our research will identify genes that are switched on or off in AML cells that lead to drug resistance and relapse. This work will reveal the factors underpinning non-genetic drug resistance that may be targeted with new drugs to prevent relapse and ultimately improve quality of life and survival.

Program: Career Development Program
Project Term: Start Date: October 1, 2021 End Date: September 30, 2024
George Vassiliou

George Vassiliou, MBBS, PhD

University of Cambridge

Cambridge
United Kingdom

Prevention of myeloid cancers by understanding their pre-clinical evolution

Here we propose to study blood DNA from 1500 people who have had extensive genetic and aging-related tests over many years as participants of the "Immunoageing" study (http://www.immunoageing.eu/index.html). We propose to study these people for the presence of age-related clonal hematopoiesis (ARCH) to understand what factors are associated with ARCH and its expansion. Our aim is to use these findings to help prevent ARCH from progressing to myeloid cancer in at risk individuals identified by future screening programs, which we and others developing separately.

Program: RTFCCR/LLS Prevention
Project Term: Start Date: July 1, 2018 End Date: December 31, 2022