Biomarker-Guided Ruxolitinib for the Prevention of Chronic Graft Versus Host Disease After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation

This study explores a new way to prevent chronic graft versus host disease (GVHD) following a stem cell transplant for blood or bone marrow cancers. Chronic GVHD happens when donated cells attack your healthy tissues months after a transplant, causing issues like skin rashes or dry mouth. Researchers are testing whether a drug called ruxolitinib can prevent this. Ruxolitinib works by blocking specific enzymes that trigger the body’s inflammatory response.

To participate, you must be at least 18 years old and have recently received a stem cell transplant using peripheral blood. You must be in remission and have healthy blood cell counts and organ function. Between 70 and 100 days after your transplant, doctors will test your blood for specific "biomarkers." If these markers show you are at a high risk for developing chronic GVHD, you may be invited to take ruxolitinib as a pill. If your markers are low risk, you will likely receive standard follow-up care.

Participation involves providing blood samples, allowing researchers to study your previous biopsy tissue, and filling out health questionnaires. You cannot join if you have an active infection, a history of tuberculosis, or have had a major heart event like a stroke or blood clot in the last six months. Before enrolling, talk with your doctor about your transplant recovery, your risk for GVHD, and how ruxolitinib might interact with your current medications.