Digital PCR-based GRHL2 methylation testing in acute myeloid leukemia: diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a challenging disease with high rates of recurrence. The role of the cancer-related gene GRHL2 in AML has not been widely studied. Methods: Peripheral blood samples were collected from 73 AML patients and 68 healthy controls. Droplet digital PCR was used to detect GRHL2 methylation levels to explore the value of GRHL2 methylation in the diagnosis, treatment response and prognosis of AML. Result: GRHL2 methylation was significantly increased in AML patients (p < 0.01), with high diagnostic accuracy (area under the curve: 0.848; p < 0.001). GRHL2 methylation was correlated with chemotherapy response (p < 0.05) and is an independent prognostic factor for AML (p < 0.05). Conclusion: GRHL2 methylation is expected to serve as a biomarker for diagnosing AML patients and predicting prognosis.