MDM2 polymorphism increases susceptibility to childhood acute myeloid leukemia: a report from the Children's Oncology

Christine L Phillips1, Robert Gerbing, Todd Alonzo

  • 1Division of Hematology Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA. christine.phillips@cchmc.org

Abstract

Insights

The MDM2 SNP309 variant increases susceptibility to pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, this genetic marker does not affect treatment response or toxicity in children with AML.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • The MDM2 gene variant, SNP309, affects the p53 tumor suppressor pathway.
  • SNP309 is linked to earlier cancer development and reduced survival in certain conditions.
  • Cells with the SNP309 G/G genotype show increased resistance to topoisomerase II inhibitors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between MDM2 SNP309 and susceptibility to pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
  • To determine if SNP309 influences treatment response and toxicity in children with AML.

Main Methods:

  • Genotyping of 575 children with de novo AML.
  • Comparison of SNP309 genotypes in AML patients and healthy blood donors.
  • Analysis of treatment response and toxicity in children on specific oncology protocols.

Main Results:

  • The SNP309 G/G genotype was associated with increased susceptibility to AML (OR 1.5; P = 0.049).
  • No significant impact of the SNP309 variant allele on disease response was observed.
  • The variant did not modify toxicity in children undergoing treatment.

Conclusions:

  • The MDM2 SNP309 variant plays a role in susceptibility to pediatric AML.
  • SNP309 does not appear to influence the overall response to therapy in pediatric AML patients.

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