Study reveals epigenetic vulnerability of acute myeloid leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive blood cancer that causes uncontrolled accumulation of white blood cells. Because of the poor outcomes of this disease, researchers across the globe have been on the hunt for new ways to treat AML, while preserving normal blood development.

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and collaborating institutions report in the journal Cancer Research a new vulnerability of this cancer that can be targeted with a class of experimental drugs. These drugs target a protein complex called SWI/SNF, which many cells use to make DNA more open and accessible. DNA accessibility heavily influences gene expression by controlling what is known as the epigenetic state of the cell.

Read more about this groundbreaking project here. Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation proudly supported the work of Dr. Hodges and his team through a Medical Research Award in 2017.