Increased circulating basic fibroblast growth factor levels in acute myeloid leukemia: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Oncology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is implicated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) pathogenesis.
• The precise role and circulating levels of bFGF in untreated AML remain unclear.
• A comprehensive meta-analysis is needed for a definitive evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if circulating bFGF levels are elevated in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
• To evaluate the association between bFGF levels and clinical characteristics in AML.
• To assess the potential of bFGF as a therapeutic target in AML.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across multiple databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP).
• Inclusion of 11 studies for meta-analysis using random-effects model and forest plots.
• Subgroup analyses based on sample size, sample type, and region; statistical analysis in STATA12.0.

Main Results:

• Meta-analysis of 11 studies revealed significantly higher circulating bFGF levels in AML patients (SMD = 1.15, 95% CI: 0.35-1.94).
• Sensitivity and publication bias analyses confirmed the robustness of the findings.
• Elevated bFGF levels were particularly noted in subgroups with smaller sample sizes (N<30), serum samples, and in Asian populations.

Conclusions:

• Circulating bFGF levels are elevated in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
• The association of bFGF levels with sample type, size, and region warrants further investigation.
• Targeting bFGF presents a promising therapeutic strategy for AML treatment.