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Increased bone marrow angiogenesis in B cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia
A R Kini1, N E Kay, L C Peterson
1Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, IL, USA.
Leukemia
|August 15, 2000
Summary
Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is implicated in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) pathogenesis. Increased microvessel density and basic fibroblast growth factor levels in B-CLL patients suggest its role.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Angiogenesis is crucial for solid tumor growth and metastasis.
- Emerging evidence suggests a role for angiogenesis in hematopoietic malignancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the extent of angiogenesis in B cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL).
- To correlate angiogenic markers with disease severity in B-CLL.
Main Methods:
- Quantified microvessel density and hotspot density in bone marrow trephine biopsies of B-CLL patients and controls.
- Measured urine levels of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in B-CLL patients and controls.
- Correlated angiogenic markers with clinical staging of B-CLL.
Main Results:
- B-CLL bone marrow showed significantly higher microvessel density (7.64/hpf vs. 2.11/hpf) and hotspot density (14.83/hotspot vs. 7.09/hotspot) compared to controls.
- Both microvessel and hotspot densities positively correlated with B-CLL clinical stage.
- Urine bFGF levels were significantly elevated in B-CLL patients (2216.5 pg/g) versus controls (1084 pg/g).
Conclusions:
- Angiogenesis is significantly increased in B-CLL.
- Angiogenic markers correlate with disease burden and clinical stage in B-CLL.
- These findings support the involvement of angiogenesis in B-CLL pathogenesis.