# Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) in Leukemia

> **NIH NIH P50** · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · 2024 · $2,109,864

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
The Washington University SPORE in Leukemia is a highly dynamic translational cancer research program that
focuses specifically on leukemias and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). We have assembled an outstanding
group of investigators with complementary expertise in basic and clinical leukemia research. In this SPORE, we
leverage expertise in cancer genomics, immunology, and hematopoiesis to develop innovative translational
research in leukemia. Our long-term goal is to develop novel biomarkers and treatments for leukemias and
myelodysplastic syndromes and to develop and promote innovative translational leukemia research. To achieve
these goals, the following specific aims are proposed.
 Aim 1. We will exploit institutional expertise in cancer genomics, immunology, and hematopoiesis to
develop novel biomarkers and treatments for leukemias and myelodysplastic syndromes. Basic research
at WUSM has led to the development of the following four translational research projects, three of which feature
innovative investigator-initiated therapeutic trials for leukemias or MDS.
 · Project 1. Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy for T cell malignancies
 · Project 2. Memory-like NK cell therapy for AML relapsed after allogeneic transplant
 · Project 3. Targeted therapy for splicing factor-mutant myeloid malignancies
 · Project 4. Targeting ATR in TP53-mutated MDS/AML
 Aim 2. We will enhance the infrastructure that supports translational leukemia research. This SPORE
will support the following Shared Research Resources: 1) Core A. Biospecimen Processing; 2) Core B.
Biostatistics and Bioinformatics; and 3) Core C. Administration.
 Aim 3. We will recruit and train new investigators in translational research. This SPORE will support a
Career Enhancement Program (CEP) to recruit and mentor new investigators in translational leukemia research,
with an emphasis on under-represented in medicine (URiM) investigators. The SPORE has established a
successful URiM post-baccalaureate training program. The SPORE also will support a Developmental Research
Program (DRP) to support innovative translational concepts.
 Aim 4. We will facilitate inter-SPORE collaboration. Two of the SPORE projects include multi-institutional
clinical trials, including participation by peer Leukemia SPORE institutions. We have established a CEP
educational exchange and grant review programs with peer Leukemia SPORE institutions. We will continue to
organize and participate in joint meetings of Leukemia SPOREs at MD Anderson, Harvard, and Memorial Sloan
Kettering Cancer Center.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10934204
- **Project number:** 2P50CA171963-11A1
- **Recipient organization:** WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Daniel C Link
- **Activity code:** P50 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $2,109,864
- **Award type:** 2
- **Project period:** 2013-09-03 → 2029-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10934204

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10934204, Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) in Leukemia (2P50CA171963-11A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10934204. Licensed CC0.

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