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MLL-rearranged leukemias: insights from gene expression profiling
Scott A Armstrong1, Todd R Golub, Stanley J Korsmeyer
1Department of Pediatric Oncology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Seminars in Hematology
|October 29, 2003
Summary
Gene expression profiling reveals insights into mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) gene rearrangements in human leukemias. These rearrangements are linked to both acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), suggesting a complex origin.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Gene expression analysis aids in understanding leukemia classification and oncogenesis.
- Mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) gene rearrangements on chromosome 11q23 are found in both acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
- MLL-rearranged leukemias exhibit co-expression of myeloid- and lymphoid-associated genes, prompting investigation into their cell of origin and transformation mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review insights into MLL-rearranged human leukemias.
- To compare findings from human leukemias with data from model systems.
Main Methods:
- Genome-wide expression profiling of MLL-rearranged human leukemias.
- Comparative analysis with data from relevant model systems.
Main Results:
- MLL rearrangements present unique characteristics, bridging AML and ALL classifications.
- MLL-rearranged leukemias display a mixed lineage gene expression profile.
- Expression profiling provides a deeper understanding of the molecular underpinnings of these leukemias.
Conclusions:
- Characterization of MLL-rearranged leukemias through expression profiling offers valuable insights.
- Further research comparing human data with model systems can elucidate transformation mechanisms.