The CXCR4 Downstream Signaling Pathways in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: a Target to Reverse Microenvironment Protection

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells are protected from spontaneous and fludarabine-induced cell death by tumor microenvironment through the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis. The binding of CXCR4 to CXCL12 activates Ras/ERK1-2/Akt and RhoA-dependent signalling pathways. We have recently described the activation of Ras/ERK1-2 and RhoA/RhoA kinase signalling, the upregulation of the pro-survival factor Akt, and the increase in the activity of the transcription factor HIF-1 α in CLL cells co-cultured with stromal cells (SC).

Source: Clinical Lymphoma, Myeloma and Leukemia - August 26, 2016 Category: Hematology Authors: Candida Vitale, Valentina Griggio, Maria Todaro, Chiara Riganti, Iris Chiara Salaroglio, Chiara Salvetti, Micol Rigoni, Myriam Foglietta, Barbara Castella, Mario Bocacdoro, Massimo Massaia, Marta Coscia Source Type: research