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Updated: Apr 12, 2026
An Organotypic High Throughput System for Characterization of Drug Sensitivity of Primary Multiple Myeloma Cells
Published on: July 15, 2015
[Identification and targeting of multiple myeloma stem cells]
Abstract:
Multiple myeloma(MM) is characterized by the clonal expansion of malignant plasma cells. In xenograft models, CD19-CD38++ MM plasma cells engrafted and rapidly propagated MM, indicating that MM plasma cells, which are terminally differentiated cells, include MM-initiating cells. Bone marrow niche for MM-initiating cells are now being investigated extensively. MM patients harbor phenotypic CD19+ B cells expressing the immunoglobulin gene sequence and the idiotype unique to the individual myeloma clone. CD19+ clonotypic B cells include "pre-myeloma stem cells", and additional oncogenic hits are likely to be needed before developing myeloma disease from them. Prospective identification of CD19+ "pre-myeloma stem cells" is important for diagnosing pre-myeloma status and for developing the methods for the prevention of multiple myeloma.
Insights
Multiple myeloma originates from malignant plasma cells, with CD19-CD38++ cells initiating the disease. Identifying CD19+ "pre-myeloma stem cells" is crucial for early diagnosis and prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Cancer Stem Cell Biology
Context:
- Multiple myeloma (MM) is a cancer of malignant plasma cells.
- MM plasma cells, even terminally differentiated ones, can initiate and propagate the disease in models.
- The bone marrow microenvironment's role in supporting MM-initiating cells is under active investigation.
Purpose:
- To investigate the origin and early cellular drivers of multiple myeloma.
- To identify specific cell populations that initiate MM.
- To explore the potential of pre-myeloma cells for diagnostic and therapeutic targeting.
Summary:
- MM is characterized by clonal plasma cell expansion.
- CD19-CD38++ malignant plasma cells in xenografts demonstrated MM-initiating capabilities.
- MM patients possess CD19+ B cells with unique immunoglobulin gene sequences, identified as potential "pre-myeloma stem cells" that require additional oncogenic events to develop into full myeloma.
Impact:
- Highlights the existence of MM-initiating cells within the malignant plasma cell population.
- Identifies CD19+ B cells as potential "pre-myeloma stem cells" preceding overt disease.
- Emphasizes the importance of identifying these pre-myeloma cells for early diagnosis and prevention of multiple myeloma.
