Development of novel immunotherapeutics to treat p53 mutated acute myeloid leukaemia

This project aims to improve outcomes for patients in Wales diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), particularly those with p53 mutations, who currently have very poor survival. Existing treatments often fail or patients relapse quickly, leaving this group with urgent unmet clinical need. Developing new immune-based therapies could directly benefit Welsh patients by providing effective, locally deliverable options before extending benefits elsewhere in the UK.

Some immune therapies have transformed survival in other blood cancers by recognising proteins on the surface of cancer cells. AML has fewer known safe targets, making this approach challenging. In this project, the researchers will map all surface proteins on p53-mutant AML cells taken from Welsh patients, identify the most promising targets, and develop prototype immune therapies in the lab. By involving Welsh patients first, this project will help local patients get access to innovative, potentially life-saving treatments sooner. In the longer term, it strengthens Wales-led innovation in cancer therapeutics and ensures local patients benefit first from cutting-edge treatments.