Identification of novel biomarkers for MLL-translocated acute myeloid leukemia

Chromosomal translocations involving the mixed lineage leukemia (MLL or KMT2A) gene (11q23) are among the most common genetic aberrations in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML;  ~ 13%) [1] and are associated with intermediate to poor prognosis depending on the specific fusion partner gene [2]. Screening tools that detect MLL-rearranged AML are therefore extremely valuable in the clinical setting to guide molecular classification. Most clinical laboratories perform MLL break-apart fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) techniques [3] to screen for MLL-AML, whereas karyotype or reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using specific primers allows for the identification of the specific MLL fusion partner, which is critical for risk stratification and for monitoring residual disease after treatment (minimal residual disease, MRD).
Source: Experimental Hematology - Category: Hematology Authors: Tags: Brief Communications Source Type: research