Potential Approaches Versus Approved or Developing Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Therapy

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have transformed chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) treatment.
• However, resistance to TKIs and persistent leukemic stem cells (LSCs) remain significant challenges, leading to disease relapse.
• There is a critical need for novel therapeutic strategies to eradicate resistant LSCs and prevent disease progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review emerging BCR-ABL targeted and non-BCR-ABL targeted drugs in clinical trials for CML.
• To explore alternative CML therapies, including antioxidants, oncolytic viruses, engineered exosomes, and marine-derived natural products.
• To identify potential new therapeutic avenues for CML patients, focusing on overcoming resistance and eradicating LSCs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of clinical trials involving BCR-ABL targeted and non-BCR-ABL targeted drugs.
• Exploration of alternative CML treatment modalities.
• Analysis of emerging therapeutic agents for their potential to target LSCs and overcome resistance.

Main Results:

• Emerging TKIs and novel targeted agents show promise in overcoming resistance.
• Alternative therapies like antioxidants, oncolytic viruses, engineered exosomes, and marine natural products represent innovative approaches.
• These diverse strategies aim to address the persistence of quiescent, resistant LSCs.

Conclusions:

• Continued development of targeted therapies is essential for CML management.
• Alternative and complementary treatments offer new hope for eradicating resistant LSCs.
• These innovative approaches may pave the way for improved CML treatment outcomes and reduced relapse rates.