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Updated: Aug 14, 2026

Modeling Chemotherapy Resistant Leukemia In Vitro
Published on: February 9, 2016
Molecular determinants of glucocorticoid sensitivity and resistance in acute lymphoblastic leukemia
W J E Tissing1, J P P Meijerink, M L den Boer
1University Hospital Rotterdam/Sophia Children's Hospital, Department of Paediatric Oncology/Hematology, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Glucocorticoids (GC) are probably the most important drugs in the treatment of ALL. Despite the extensive use of GC for many years, little is known about the molecular mechanisms of sensitivity and resistance. This review summarizes the knowledge on GC cytotoxicity in leukemia. The relevance of polymorphisms, splice variants and the number and regulation of the GC receptor are discussed. The role of multidrug resistance proteins, glutathione and glutathione S-transferase is evaluated, as well as the influence of the different heat-shock chaperone (hsp 90 and 70) and co-chaperone proteins (BAG-1 and others) which form a complex together with the GC receptor. Finally, the transactivation and transrepression (via NF-kappa B and AP-1 binding) of a wide range of genes (like c-myc) which initiates the final apoptosis pathway are discussed and suggestions for future directions of research in ALL patients are given.
Insights
Glucocorticoids (GC) are vital for treating acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), but resistance mechanisms are unclear. This review explores GC sensitivity and resistance pathways in leukemia, focusing on the GC receptor and associated proteins.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Glucocorticoids (GC) are primary treatments for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
- Molecular mechanisms underlying GC sensitivity and resistance in ALL remain poorly understood.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for improving leukemia treatment outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on GC cytotoxicity in leukemia.
- To elucidate molecular factors influencing GC sensitivity and resistance in ALL.
- To identify future research directions for optimizing GC therapy in ALL patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on GC mechanisms in leukemia.
- Analysis of factors affecting GC receptor function, including polymorphisms and chaperones.
- Evaluation of the role of drug resistance proteins and cellular signaling pathways.
Main Results:
- GC resistance is influenced by GC receptor variations, splice variants, and regulatory proteins.
- Multidrug resistance proteins, glutathione, and heat-shock proteins modulate GC efficacy.
- Transactivation/transrepression of genes like c-myc by GC receptor impacts apoptosis.
Conclusions:
- GC resistance in ALL is multifactorial, involving receptor status, drug transporters, and signaling pathways.
- Further research into these molecular mechanisms can guide the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
- Personalized approaches considering genetic variations may enhance GC treatment effectiveness in ALL.
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