CMML Special Initiative
Expanding research in Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia to better characterize its biology, develop new therapies, and optimize outcomes for patients
This program is now closed. Thank you for your submissions!
The purpose of the CMML Special Initiative is to establish a comprehensive research program to understand the unique characteristic of CMML, develop new targets and new therapies, and launch focused clinical programs needed to make significant progress toward cures for patients battling CMML. The grant program for the CMML Special Initiative will be comprised of two programs: a Synergistic Team Award (STA) similar to the LLS SCOR Program and a Translational Grant (TRL) similar to the LLS TRP Program.
Program Description
LLS plans to invest up to $13 million over five (5) years in targeted research to build a more comprehensive foundational understanding of the molecular basis of CMML, discover new therapeutic avenues, develop better therapies, and most importantly, optimize outcomes in clinical research for the patient population already diagnosed with CMML.
Priority will also be given to research that aims to deliver results on a timeline that can optimize outcomes for the patient population that has already been diagnosed with CMML.
Key Topics of Interest
Investigators are encouraged to submit proposals in any clinical or biological topics related to CMML.
Clinical research priority areas:
- studies of innovative treatments using novel agents, pre-existing agents, or novel combination therapies
- immunotherapies with high potential for clinical activity in CMML
- normalization of blood counts and relief of symptoms such as blood transfusions.
Fundamental studies seeking a deeper understanding of the disease will include:
- uncovering novel features of CMML biology and cellular vulnerabilities
- investigations into mechanisms of CMML relapse and therapy resistance
- identifying new targets and therapies
Grant Funding Mechanisms
LLS is activating a global call for inventive proposals that have the potential for high impact in the field of CMML. Research funding will provide support for two types of grants: Synergistic Team Award (STA) and Translational Grants (TRLs).
The Synergistic Team Award (STA) will support programs designed to include an understanding of the molecular basis of CMML, how to overcome resistance to existing therapies, and most importantly, clinical application of knowledge that may manifest as new clinical trials with novel agents or correlative studies with on-going clinical studies. The group must have demonstrated knowledge in the field as well as the ability to perform clinical trials, biomarker/PD assessment, and/or basic CMML biology research. Support for core facilities may include the use of animal models, computational expertise, single-cell analysis, or other expertise required to advance new therapies. The grant program is designed to create a synergistic team that will work well together.
- Program activities can include pre-clinical development and correlative studies
- Multiple projects that do not contribute to the overall synergy will be unfavorably reviewed
- Approximately three to five independent investigators (Project/Core Leaders) led by a Program Director (PD)
- There must be at least three but no more than five Projects
- There must be a minimum of one scientific Core (e.g., clinical trial services, genomics, animal models, registries, or computation) and one administrative Core. There can be no more than four Cores.
- Cores should not be research-oriented, as they serve supportive functions
- Five years of support
- $1,000,000/year ($5,000,000 total)
- Up to two Synergistic Team Awards (STAs) will be awarded
The Translational Grants (TRL) will support clinical and/or biological research. A clearly outlined translational aspect is a plus for proposals in basic research, but outstanding biological research proposals without a translational element will be considered. The award is expected to support senior investigators, although young independent investigators with a proven track record will be considered.
- Project led by a single Principal Investigator (PI); project may have up to two co-PIs
- Substantial preliminary data expected
- Three years of support
- Up to $250,000/year ($750,000 total). Indirect costs (institutional overhead) capped at 10% of total costs.
- Up to four Translational Grants (TRLs) will be awarded
Maximum Duration and Value of each award mechanism
| Duration in Years | Maximum Total Annual Costs | Maximum Total for Duration of Award | |
|---|---|---|---|
| STA | 5 | $1,000,000.00 | $5,000,000.00 |
| TRL | 3 | $250,000.00 | $750,000.00 |
How to Apply
- Please refer to the Guidelines & Instructions documents above
- Is this your first time applying for an LLS Research grant? You can get started by requesting a new account in the LLS Research Portal by clicking here.
- Applicants must carefully read the program guidelines before beginning their applications.
- See the table below for all the key dates and deadlines:
2022-2023 Application Key Dates for both awards
| Phase | Date |
|---|---|
| Call for Proposals | March 20, 2023 |
| Letter of Intent Due | May 1, 2023, 3:00 PM ET |
| Notification of Full Application Invite | No later than May 5, 2023 |
| Full Application Deadline | June 30, 2023, 3:00 PM ET |
| Review Panel Meeting | August 2023 |
| Notification of Awards | September 15, 2023 |
| Award Start Date | November 1, 2023 |
The above image was originally published in ASH Image Bank.
Elizabeth L. Courville, MD. Mantle cell lymphoma with mantle zone pattern.
ASH Image Bank. 2019;60171 © the American Society of Hematology.