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.