Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Cancer Institute awarded a $646,881 Project Grant to the Regents of the University of Michigan (Office of Research and Sponsored Projects) under the Cancer Treatment Research program (CFDA 93.395) for the period April 1, 2026, through March 31, 2031. This research project focuses on developing and evaluating small molecule inhibitors targeting ASH1L (Absent, Small or Homeotic 1-Like), a histone methyltransferase protein implicated in acute leukemia pathogenesis. The research addresses the critical clinical need for improved treatment options for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients, who currently face a 5-year survival rate of approximately 27%.

The project delivers fundamental laboratory research and drug development activities aimed at creating first-in-class ASH1L inhibitors that suppress HOX gene expression, particularly HOXA9, which is associated with refractory and relapsed disease. Through medicinal chemistry optimization, the research team has developed nanomolar-binding compounds with high selectivity to ASH1L that demonstrate capacity to block leukemia cell proliferation, induce differentiation, and downregulate HOXA genes. The work represents applied translational research supporting the discovery and development of novel molecularly targeted therapies for cancer treatment, consistent with the Cancer Treatment Research program's objectives to develop improved cancer treatment methods and reduce disease burden in patient populations with poor prognoses.