NCT07019155 · National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Study of Individuals and Families With Aberrations in DDX41 or Similar Cancer Predisposition Variants
What this study is about
Background: Hereditary hematopoietic malignancy (HHM) syndromes are a group of inherited disorders that raises the risk of blood cancers. Many people with HHMs have changes in a gene (DDX41) that makes it more likely that they will develop myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), or other cancers.
View original scientific description
Background: Hereditary hematopoietic malignancy (HHM) syndromes are a group of inherited disorders that raises the risk of blood cancers. Many people with HHMs have changes in a gene (DDX41) that makes it more likely that they will develop myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), or other cancers. This natural history study will explore the link between HHM syndromes and these diseases. Objective: To study the link between HHM and MDS/AML. Eligibility: People aged 1 month and older with HHM. Relatives with HHM are also needed. Design: Participants aged 3 years and older will have 1 initial clinic visit with the option to follow-up annually. They will undergo these procedures: They will have a physical exam with blood and urine tests. They may give samples of saliva, stool, nails, and skin. Their ability to do normal activities will be reviewed. Some may have a bone marrow biopsy: A tissue sample will be drawn from inside a bone. They may answer questions about their health and family medical history. Participants younger than 3 years, and those who cannot come to the clinic, will be contacted by phone or email. Their samples may be collected locally and sent to researchers. For participants who have changes in their DDX41 gene: Researchers will contact them or their primary care provider once a year for 10 years. Researchers will check on participants health and collect any new test results. Some may be asked to send new samples. Participants who do not have changes in their DDX41 gene may be contacted yearly, or less often, for 10 years. Some participants may be asked to return to the clinic if needed.
Primary outcome measures
To estimate the EFS in individuals with DEAD-box helicase 41 (DDX41) aberrations
Time frame: Up to 10 years
Describe the EFS separately for Cohort 1 and Cohort 2. Kaplan-Meier plots will be generated, five and 10-year EFS will be reported, along with 95% confidence intervals for each Cohort separately.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age \> 1 month old.
- Participants with history of aberrations that affect the DDX41 gene, DDX41 RNA, or DDX41 protein (Cohorts 1-2) OR Participants with history of aberrations in another HHM variant (Cohort 3) OR Participants with history of absence of HHM variants, who have first or second degree relative with history of confirmed or suspected HHM variant(s) per participant report (Cohort 4).
- Participants must have an identified healthcare provider outside of NIH who manages participant care, and any diagnostic clinical findings provided by this study.
- Ability of participant or parent/guardian to understand and the willingness to sign a written consent document.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
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Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 6, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations