Human acute myeloid leukemia lines: models of leukemogenesis

Human AML cell lines provide models to identify inducers of differentiation of leukemia cells. Future studies will probably examine the combination of inducers of differentiation. Induction of differentiation, although an exciting concept, remains only a potential therapeutic modality. Perhaps of even greater importance, the cell lines provide a useful model of cellular differentiation. We should learn what cellular events trigger cells to undergo terminal differentiation. Likewise, the role of oncogenes and other pivotal genes in normal differentiation and their alteration in leukemias will be determined.