P53 gene mutation in a T-acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell line (loucy) with t(16:20) and 5q- chromosomal aberrations

A human T-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cell line (Loucy), derived from cells from a patient with resistant ALL with a t(16:20) and 5q- chromosomal aberrations was evaluated for p53 gene alterations and expression. Western blot analysis of p53 showed elevated levels of the protein. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis and direct sequencing identified a point mutation at codon 272 (GTG --> ATG) of the p53 gene. Possible molecular mechanisms underlying these alterations and their role in the establishment of this cell line and in leukemogenesis in general are discussed.