Doctors are working to learn more about AML, ways to prevent it, how to best treat it, and how to provide the best care to people diagnosed with this disease. The following areas of research may include new options for patients through clinical trials. Most cancer centers are actively involved in clinical trials focused on increasing the number of people cured of AML. Always talk with your doctor about the diagnostic and treatment options best for you.

Understanding AML biology. Research on the biology of AML is ongoing to learn more about how leukemia develops and to improve its treatment, particularly for older patients.

New drugs and treatment regimens. Researchers are looking at the use of existing drugs given in different doses and schedules, as well as new drugs. Specific research includes the use of drugs called hypomethylating therapy, such as azacitidine or decitabine (Dacogen).

Targeted therapy. Targeted therapy is a treatment that targets the cancer's specific genes, proteins, or the tissue environment that contributes to cancer growth and survival. Researchers are studying ways to block how specific genetic changed found in AML cells affect the body. For example, about 30% of patients with AML have changes to the FLT3 gene, which can increase the growth of AML cells. Drugs that stop the changed FLT3 gene from working are being tested in clinical trials. Other targeted therapies are being researched that stop AML cells from becoming resistant to chemotherapy (when the chemotherapy stops working). Specific targeted therapy drugs being researched include midostaurin, lenalidomide (Revlimid), gemtuzumab (Mylotarg), sorafenib (Nexavar), and tipifarnib (Zarnestra).

Immunotherapy. Immunotherapy (also called biologic therapy) is designed to boost the body's natural defenses to fight the cancer. It uses materials made either by the body or in a laboratory to bolster, target, or restore immune system function. Researchers are specifically looking at vaccines and the use of antibodies directed against the AML cells

Stem cell/bone marrow transplantation. Different ways to make stem cell transplantation (see Treatment) safer, easier, and more effective are also being studied.

Supportive care. Clinical trials are underway to find better ways of reducing symptoms and side effects of current AML treatments in order to improve patients' comfort and quality of life.

Learn more about common statistical terms used in cancer research.

Looking for More about Current Research?

If you would like additional information about the latest areas of research regarding AML explore these related items:

• To find clinical trials specific to your diagnosis, talk with your doctor or search online clinical trial databases now.
• Review research announced at recent scientific meetings or in ASCO's peer-reviewed journals.

• Visit ASCO's CancerProgress.Net website to learn more about the historical pace of research for leukemia.

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