Developing a new therapeutic for childhood acute myeloid leukaemia
Chief Investigator:
Dr Mingfeng Yu
Research Area:
Basic Science
Funding Amount:
$ 35,000
Recipient:
University of South Australia
Overview:
In Australia, acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is the second leading cause of cancer death in children. Activating mutations of FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) are the most frequent genetic alterations in AML, and are associated with poor prognosis. Thus, FLT3 has emerged as a therapeutic target for treating AML. We have recently identified a highly potent FLT3 inhibitor that displays a selectivity for this kinase superior to known FLT3 inhibitors under development. This project will further evaluate the anti-cancer efficacy of this inhibitor in animal models of AML, and a successful outcome will support its advancement for treating childhood AML.