Characterization of endogenous peptides targeting leukemic stem cells in acute myeloid leukemia (B01)

• Subject Area: Hematology, Oncology
• Term: since 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 316249678

The function of leukemic stem cells (LSC), which play a key role in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), is critically dependent on their micro-environmental niche and on signaling by the CXCL12-CXCR4 axis. The present project will determine whether improved derivatives of the endogenous CXCR4 antagonist EPI-X4 will suppress LSC growth and may thus have prospects for the treatment of AML. In addition, it will be examined whether GPR15 signaling also affects LSC proliferation or migration. Finally, comprehensive peptide libraries generated from human blood or bone marrow will be examined for other endogenous peptides modulating LSC growth or function.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1279: Exploiting the Human Peptidome for Novel Antimicrobial and Anticancer Agents
• Applicant Institution: Universität Ulm
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Christian Buske