There is a great deal of research being conducted in the area of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) including clinical trials and scientific studies. Areas of research for AML include:

• Genetics. Researchers are studying how changes in a person’s DNA can cause normal bone marrow cells to develop into abnormal leukemia cells. Studies of DNA changes in AML have yielded a more sensitive test for detecting leukemia cells after a patient has undergone treatment. The test, known as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test can identify acute leukemia cells based on DNA changes, such as translocations. A PCR test can be beneficial in determining the success of treatment in destroying AML cells. It can also help predict whether relapse is likely to occur.
  
  
• Stem cell transplantation. Scientists continue to examine ways to increase the effectiveness of stem cell transplantation and methods to reduce the complications. Studies continue to focus on which individuals most benefit from stem cell transplants.
  
  
• Chemotherapy. New chemotherapy drugs are being studied for treatment of the disease. Other studies have focused on ways to prevent leukemia cells from becoming resistant to chemotherapy, and determining the most effective combination of drugs. Researchers are also trying to determine whether patients with a poor prognosis and chromosomal pattern benefit from intensive chemotherapy.  
  
  
• Targeted therapies. Researchers are developing new targeted drugs that specifically attack some of the genetic abnormalities seen in patients with AML.  A group of new drugs called FLT3 inhibitors appear to block mutation of chromosomes. These drugs are only available in clinical trials but they have been effective, particularly when they paired with chemotherapy. Some trials are examining the effectiveness of combined targeted therapies that block multiple molecular pathways. Research has also targeted other gene mutations found in the c-KIT gene in some cases of AML.
  
  
• Gene-expression profiling. This experimental technique is being used with several types of cancer. The testing analyzes the pattern of genes found in cancer cells and helps distinguish certain types of cancer. In AML, the profiling is being used to classify the disease into subtypes and risk categories. The profiling also helps physicians plan specific treatment and evaluate the patient’s prognosis.