Leukemia

UT MD Anderson shares latest research breakthroughs

Novel tool enables high-precision, low-cost pediatric leukemia diagnostics

Successfully treated AML patients may hold the key to new CAR T cell therapy

Researchers uncover role of RBPMS in AML and propose therapy

Gene-edited stem cell transplant shows promise for aggressive blood cancers

Researchers at WashU Medicine conducted a clinical trial showing that genetically engineered donor stem cells can prevent toxic side effects and improve treatment options for patients with AML and MDS. The study found that removing the CD33 protein from donor stem cells helped target cancer cells while leaving healthy cells untouched.

ASCO 2026 Tip Sheet - Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

Researchers at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center presented several studies at ASCO 2026 exploring new treatment options for patients with advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) and melanoma. These include velzatinib, a targeted therapy for GIST patients, and PRAME-directed T-cell receptor therapies for synovial sarcoma.

Targeted maternal screening could prevent rare, deadly leukemia in the US

A new study found that targeted maternal screening can prevent adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by human T-cell leukemia virus type 1. The research identified high disease rates among non-Hispanic Caribbean-born US residents, particularly in Florida and New York.

New molecular tool transforms how clinicians classify and treat a rare blood cancer

Researchers developed a novel disease classification system and AI-assisted decision support tool to improve CMML care. The International CMML Prognostic Scoring System (iCPSS) demonstrates superior prognostic discrimination, stratifying patients into five risk groups with different survival outcomes.

Unravelling the evolution of leukemia in children with Down Syndrome

Researchers have identified a single genetic change that drives the development of myeloid leukaemia in children with Down Syndrome. The study reveals a common vulnerability and treatment target, suggesting potential repurposed treatments. The genetic change, related to the GATA1 gene, is present at all stages of the disease.

Cancer trends in Canada 2026

The study projects that cancer rates in Canada will be high in 2026, with declines seen in some cancers like colorectal and leukemia. However, death rates from pancreatic cancer are increasing.

New BSC study reveals, for the first time, that the female immune system changes much more than that of men with age

A new study by the Barcelona Supercomputing Center reveals that women's immune systems undergo more pronounced changes with age, leading to a greater susceptibility to autoimmune diseases. In contrast, men experience less extensive immune system changes, but are at higher risk for certain blood cancers.

Newly funded projects to develop more effective drugs with fewer side effects for hard-to-treat cancers

Alliance marks Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week

The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is enrolling adolescent and young adult cancer patients in various trials, including genetic services and treatment studies. These trials aim to address longstanding gaps in care and improve outcomes for AYAs with cancer.

Leukemia study restores silenced gene in mice. Could it point to new treatments for humans?

Researchers created a CRISPR-based tool to pinpoint genes the cancer turns off, restoring a key cancer-fighting gene in leukemia. The study found that blocking KDM4 enzymes can regain expression of the tumor-suppressor gene ZBTB7A, reducing leukemia burden while leaving normal blood formation largely unaffected.

Integration of single-cell multiomics data allows a more precise identification of rare cell types and states

Researchers developed an interpretable machine learning algorithm, scOMM, to classify cell types consistently across different single-cell methods. The integration strategies and scOMM establish a robust approach for cell atlas generation in complex tissues, leading to the discovery of previously undetected rare cell types.

The Josep Carreras Institute and the Chinese Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital join forces to advance research in blood cancers

The Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute is joining forces with the Chinese Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital to advance blood cancer research. The partnership aims to develop joint translational research programmes and accelerate the development of curative therapies for patients with blood cancers.

NUTM1 rearrangements cause a highly treatable form of infant leukemia

Researchers found that NUTM1 rearranged leukemia is distinct from other forms, with decreased DNA methylation and increased lifespan of blood cells. Leukemias with BRD9-NUTM1 fusion are extremely sensitive to chemotherapy, leading to improved clinical outcomes.

Agent Orange linked to aggressive bone marrow cancer in Vietnam veterans

A new national study highlights the genetic changes that link exposure to Agent Orange to myelodysplastic syndromes, a group of bone marrow cancers that can progress to acute leukemia. The research found that exposed veterans were diagnosed at a younger age and had a higher rate of disease progression compared to unexposed patients.

MSK Research Highlights, March 20, 2026

Researchers develop new approach to prevent chemotherapy-related leukemia by analyzing blood samples from four clinical trials, showing a 26-36% reduction in blood cell growth with mutated TP53 gene. They also discover that monoclonal antibodies can turn neutrophils into cancer killers and induce tumor eradication in preclinical models.

A new method produces CAR-T cells to keep fighting disease longer

Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine have developed a new strategy to engineer immune cells that prolong their effectiveness, addressing a major limitation of current treatments. The new method generates longer-lasting immune cells that provide more sustained control of human blood cancers and suppression of HIV-infection.

Optical genome mapping detects additional genetic variants in nearly 20% of individuals with acute leukemia

A new clinical diagnostic test using optical genome mapping (OGM) has been shown to detect additional genetic variants in nearly 20% of individuals with acute leukemia. OGM offers a comprehensive view of the genome, refining diagnosis and risk stratification, and improving therapy selection. The test's high diagnostic yield and ability...

Alliance trial aims to improve outcomes for chronic lymphocytic leukemia

The Alliance trial explores the combination of zanubrutinib and sonrotoclax for CLL treatment, aiming to send cancer into remission and allow patients to stop treatment earlier. The study has the potential to be life-changing for patients and their families, reducing the burden of ongoing therapy and improving quality of life.

Researchers develop a biomimetic platform to enhance CAR T cell therapy against leukemia

Researchers developed a biomimetic platform to enhance CAR T cell therapy against leukemia by creating a molecular bridge that reinforces the interface between CAR T cells and leukemia cells. This platform, called FACE, uses ferritin to bind to CD71 on leukemia cells, improving cell recognition and elimination.

RELAX study from Dresden: Innovative combination therapy shows promising efficacy in aggressive leukemia

Researchers from Dresden University Medicine developed a new treatment approach for relapsed acute myeloid leukemia (AML), combining standard therapy with the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax. The innovative combination therapy has shown promising efficacy, increasing remission rates to 75% and improving patients' chances of recovery.

Cell-free DNA offers early warning for bloodstream infections in kids with leukemia

A new test detects infection-causing pathogens days before standard blood cultures, offering a potential approach to protecting vulnerable patients. The test, named plasma microbial cell-free DNA sequencing (mcfDNA-Seq), reliably identifies the most common bacteria and fungi that cause bloodstream infections in children with cancer.

Upcoming Alliance webinar highlights latest cancer treatment advances

The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology will host a webinar highlighting recent clinical advances in breast cancer, multiple myeloma, and leukemia. Researchers will present key findings from ASH and SABCS meetings, impacting treatment outcomes.

Bone marrow cell atlas for improved leukemia research

A new study has mapped the structure and function of healthy children's bone marrow cells, revealing age-dependent differences in blood cell formation. The atlas provides a valuable resource for researchers to better understand childhood leukemia and other blood disorders.

Renowned developmental biologist wins March of Dimes Prize

Dr. Zon's pioneering research has illuminated how blood develops in embryos, leading to a deeper understanding of rare blood diseases, including pregnancy complications. His discoveries have also led to breakthrough treatments for genetic blood disorders affecting babies and children.

Researchers drill down on genetic profiles to guide treatment for leukemia patients

A multi-institutional effort aims to refine relapse prediction by identifying genetic markers in blood samples from patients with rare blood cancer. Analyzing blood samples from 190 patients, researchers found that tiny traces of persistent NPM1 mutation were linked to worse outcomes and lower survival rates.

Molecular glue discovery: large scale instead of lucky strike

Researchers developed a new method to discover molecular glues through large-scale chemistry and cell-based screening. They identified compounds that selectively degrade ENL in leukemia cells, demonstrating the potential of this approach for targeting previously undruggable proteins.

Case report explores potential link between mRNA COVID-19 vaccines and cancer

A case report investigates a woman's development of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphoblastic lymphoma after receiving her second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 mRNA vaccine, highlighting potential genetic and molecular mechanisms involved in disease pathogenesis.

ASH publishes clinical practice guidelines on frontline and relapsed/refractory management of all in adolescents and young adults

The American Society of Hematology released guidelines for frontline and relapsed/refractory management of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in adolescents and young adults (AYAs), outlining optimal approaches to treating high-risk patient populations. The guidelines highlight the need for additional research on immunotherapies and tr...

New AI tool helps doctors treat cancer patients after heart attack

Researchers developed an AI tool called ONCO-ACS to predict the risk of secondary heart attacks in cancer patients after a heart attack. The tool combines cancer-related factors with standard clinical data to provide reliable information for doctors to balance treatment benefits and harms.

The ACHILLES project will train a new generation of researchers in experimental haemato-oncology to tackle leukemia and lymphoma

The ACHILLES project trains researchers in experimental haematological oncology, developing advanced models, analysis tools, and therapeutic targets for leukaemia and lymphoma. The project aims to bridge basic and preclinical research with clinical practice, improving survival rates and accessibility to innovative treatments.

Leading cancer deaths in people younger than 50 years

Cancer mortality rates have decreased for breast cancer and leukemia, despite increasing incidence, while colorectal cancer has become the leading cause of death among US young adults. Colorectal cancer surpasses lung, breast, and prostate cancers as the leading cancer-related death in people under 50 years old.

Lung cancer death rates among women in Europe are finally levelling off

Predictions for lung cancer death rates among EU and UK women indicate stabilization of mortality rates at 12.5 deaths per 100,000 in 2026. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death for both sexes in the EU, with mortality rates continuing to decline among men.

Sylvester Cancer Tip Sheet for January 2026

New studies from Sylvester reveal that 40% of cancers are preventable and that lifestyle interventions can play a crucial role in cancer treatment. Researchers also discovered PFAS on firefighter gear, which may limit exposure to hazardous chemicals linked to cancer.

MD Anderson shares latest research breakthroughs

Researchers at MD Anderson have made significant advancements in cancer treatment, demonstrating the effectiveness of immunotherapy before and after surgery in improving lung cancer patient outcomes. Additionally, a new study shows promise in using CAR T cell therapy to treat large B-cell lymphoma, reducing relapse rates.

Juggling two worlds: caregivers of leukemia patients struggle to balance care & daily life

A new qualitative study highlights the profound toll of caregiving on family members of individuals with acute leukemia. Caregivers described living in two worlds, one dominated by cancer and another defined by their personal lives. The findings underscore the need for caregiver support as standard cancer care.

Evaluation of cancer reports following COVID-19 vaccination and infection

A global review of COVID-19 vaccination and infection cases found associations between the two and certain types of cancer. The study analyzed 69 publications and identified potential biological mechanisms, including immune responses and inflammation.

Sylvester Cancer Tip Sheet for December 2025

A virtual diet and exercise program has been shown to reduce treatment side effects and increase treatment retention, according to a Sylvester study presented at ASH 2025. Lifestyle interventions can also help patients with blood cancers such as MDS and large B-cell lymphoma receive more effective and less toxic treatments.

Chromatin accessibility maps reveal how stem cells drive myelodysplastic progression

Chromatin accessibility maps reveal that MDS stem cells gradually lose their normal identity and acquire characteristics typical of myeloid progenitors. A 'progenitor score' developed by the team tracks cell movement toward a progenitor-like state, correlating with disease severity and prognosis.

USC researchers develop next-generation CAR T cells that show stronger, safer response in animal models

Researchers at USC's Keck School of Medicine have developed a new type of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell that elicits a more controlled immune response to cancer. The engineered CAR T cells may offer a way to more safely treat blood cancers and reduce the chance of relapse.

UCLA team discovers how to target ‘undruggable’ protein that fuels aggressive leukemia

Researchers at UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified a small molecule that can inhibit cancer-driving protein IGF2BP3, slowing leukemia growth and triggering cancer cell death. The discovery could lead to new treatments for leukemia and other hard-to-treat cancers.

Pirtobrutinib outperforms bendamustine plus rituximab for previously untreated CLL/SLL

A new trial shows pirtobrutinib to be more effective than bendamustine plus rituximab in treating previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). The drug demonstrated improved survival rates, a favorable safety profile, and lower adverse event rates compared to the standard treatment.

From novel therapies to first-in-human trials, City of Hope advances blood cancer care at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) annual conference

Researchers from City of Hope presented results on novel cellular and immunotherapies, treatment strategies for hard-to-treat blood cancers, and a first-in-human trial for GVHD. The studies showed promising outcomes, including higher event-free survival rates and fewer side effects.

ASH 2025: Study connects Agent Orange exposure to earlier and more severe cases of myelodysplastic syndrome

A new national study reveals a strong link between Agent Orange exposure and the risk of developing myelodysplastic syndrome, with exposed veterans diagnosed at younger ages and experiencing more aggressive disease. The study found that those with MDS were nearly twice as likely to see their disease progress within two years after diag...

‘Ready-made’ T-cell gene therapy tackles ‘incurable’ T-cell leukemia

A new treatment using genome-edited immune cells has shown promising results in helping children and adults fight a rare form of blood cancer called T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (T-ALL). The gene therapy, known as BE-CAR7, uses base-editing to modify T-cells and destroy cancerous cells.

Mount Sinai study finds childhood leukemia aggressiveness depends on timing of genetic mutation

A Mount Sinai study found that the timing of a genetic mutation in children with leukemia can significantly impact its aggressiveness. The researchers discovered that leukemia caused by mutations occurring before birth is often more aggressive and harder to treat than those occurring later in life.

New findings support a chemo-free approach for treating Ph+ ALL

A new study found that a chemo-free combination treatment outperformed targeted therapy and chemotherapy in patients with Ph+ acute lymphoblastic leukemia, achieving higher rates of event-free survival and complete remission. Researchers recommend this approach as the new standard of care for this patient group.

Non-covalent btki pirtobrutinib shows promise as frontline therapy for CLL/SLL

Pirtobrutinib, a non-covalent Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, met its primary endpoint in terms of overall response rate compared to covalent BTK inhibitor ibrutinib. The study suggests pirtobrutinib shows promise as initial BTK inhibitor therapy for patients with CLL and SLL.

Measurable residual disease shows strong potential as an early indicator of survival in patients with acute myeloid leukemia

Researchers found that measurable residual disease (MRD) is strongly associated with long-term outcomes in AML patients, providing a reliable indicator of treatment response. MRD testing may help refine how physicians assess treatment efficacy and personalize post-remission care.

Roughly one-third of families with children being treated for leukemia struggle to pay living expenses

Nearly one-third of families with children being treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) experience serious financial difficulties, including losing 25% or more of their household income. The study, led by Dr. Daniel Zheng, found that nearly a third of families struggled to meet basic living costs during their child's treatment.

Continuous and fixed-duration treatments result in similar outcomes for CLL

A new trial comparing continuous and fixed-duration treatments for CLL found equivalent outcomes in terms of risk of death or disease progression. Fixed-duration treatment was non-inferior to continuous treatment, suggesting clinically equal efficacy.

Chemotherapy and radiation are comparable as pre-transplant conditioning for patients with b-acute lymphoblastic leukemia who have no measurable residual disease

Patients with B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia who have no evidence of remaining cancer cells experienced comparable outcomes whether they received chemotherapy-based conditioning or total body irradiation. The study's findings could allow more patients to avoid TBI and its associated long-term side effects.

Black patients with acute myeloid leukemia are younger at diagnosis and experience poorer survival outcomes than White patients

Black patients with acute myeloid leukemia are diagnosed at younger ages and have worse outcomes compared to white patients, according to a study analyzing data from 10 clinical trials over 34 years. The study found that Black patients had a higher risk of dying from AML and any cause, even when treated with similar mutations.

Sylvester researchers lead major treatment overhauls for acute myeloid leukemia

The updated 2025 American Society of Hematology guidelines recommend that most older adults with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) receive treatment, including gentler chemotherapy regimens and targeted therapies. The guidelines aim to provide more personalized and effective care for this patient population.

Much-needed new drug approved for deadliest blood cancer

Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have developed a new treatment for acute myeloid leukemia, a deadly form of blood cancer. The FDA-approved medication works by disrupting cellular protein interactions that drive leukemia cell growth and survival, offering patients a potential cure.

AI tool spots blood cell abnormalities missed by doctors

Researchers have developed a system called CytoDiffusion that uses generative AI to study the shape and structure of blood cells. The system can accurately identify normal blood cell appearances and spot unusual or rare cells that may indicate disease, outperforming existing systems in tests.

Study reveals new origins and biomarkers in chronic lymphocytic leukemia

The study reveals that mutated and unmutated CLL subtypes originate from distinct stages of B cell development. New molecular biomarkers, including genes LPL, ZNF667, and ZNF667-AS1, have been identified for more precise patient stratification.