Targetting Kv1.3 to improve chemotherapy outcomes in ALL

A quarter of deaths caused by childhood cancer are attributed to leukaemias. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) accounts for approximately one third of childhood leukaemia diagnoses, and most frequently affects children between 2-5 years of age. The 5 year survival rate of children treated for cancer is in excess of 80%. Some studies have identified a link between obesity and poorer outcomes in children with ALL. Fat (adipose) tissue is an endocrine organ in its own right and can affect the success of chemotherapy in a number of ways. To improve the outcomes in this cohort of patients we must better understand the response of ALL cells to traditional chemotherapy when compromised by obesity. We can then identify new targets to enhance sensitivity to treatment, and consequently mitigate the risk of health problems throughout life due to the treatments that help children survive their cancer.

Grant Award – Kidscan Student Placement (2019 – 2020)

Funding Award – £2000.00

Funding Awarded to – Dr Sarah Withers

Research Location – University of Salford

Lead Researcher – Dr Sarah Withers