Management of chronic myeloid leukaemia: current treatment options, challenges, and future strategies

Salma Younes1,2, Mohamed A Ismail1,3,4, Rana Al-Jurf2

  • 1Department of Research, Women's Wellness and Research Center, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.

Insights

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have improved survival for Chronic Myelogenous Leukaemia (CML) patients, but resistance remains a challenge. This review explores TKI resistance mechanisms and future strategies for overcoming them.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Small molecule therapy, particularly tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), revolutionized Chronic Myelogenous Leukaemia (CML) treatment.
  • TKIs targeting the BCR::ABL1 kinase have significantly improved patient survival rates since 2001.
  • However, 20-25% of CML patients experience treatment failure due to resistance.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding TKI resistance mechanisms is crucial for improving CML patient outcomes.
  • Targeting both BCR::ABL1-dependent and independent pathways is necessary.
  • Novel therapeutic approaches, including gene editing, offer potential solutions for resistant CML.

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