Low Renalase Levels in Newly Diagnosed CML: Dysregulation Sensitive to Modulation by Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors

Background: A dysregulated proinflammatory microenvironment is considered one of the reasons why current therapies of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) do not secure disease control. Therefore, the development of BCR-ABL1-independent therapies is encouraged. Renalase (RNLS) is a multifunctional protein that exhibits both enzymatic and non-enzymatic cytokine-like properties, along with potent anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. It is expressed in various tissues, including tumors. Methods: We investigated the levels of RNLS in the blood of CML patients in the chronic phase, treatment naïve patients, and those in remission under TKI treatment (either imatinib or nilotinib) and compared them to healthy individuals. Results: Renalase concentration was markedly decreased in treatment-naive CML patients compared to other groups (p = 0.000), while lower levels in the TKI group were not statistically significant compared to controls. The levels correlated negatively with the total leukocyte and neutrophil count (p < 0.05), while a positive correlation was present with CRP levels in treatment naïve patients. Conclusions: Dynamic regulation of RNLS expression and activity is coupled with transcription factors NF-κB and STAT3. Interpretation of our results might rely on differential requirements of activated STATs (STAT3/5) during CML clone development and maintenance, including the observation of RNLS rise upon TKI introduction. Overall, our research provides new insights into the field of hematological malignancies. Unlike other malignancies studied, RNLS plasma levels are significantly decreased in CML. In future perspectives, RNLS could potentially serve as a diagnostic, prognostic, or therapeutic option for these patients.