Experimental and Computational Approaches to Measure Telomere Length: Recent Advances and Future Directions
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe length of telomeres, protective structures at the chromosome ends, is a well-established biomarker for pathological conditions including multisystemic syndromes called telomere biology disorders. Approaches to measure telomere length (TL) differ on whether they estimate average, distribution, or chromosome-specific TL, and each presents their own advantages and limitations.Recent FindingsThe development of long-read sequencing and publication of the telomere-to-telomere human genome reference has allowed for scalable and high-resolution TL estimation in pre-existing sequencing datasets but is s...
Source: Current Hematologic Malignancy Reports - November 10, 2023 Category: Hematology Source Type: research

Measurable Residual Disease Monitoring in Lymphoma
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe utility of analyzing circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), circulating tumor cells (CTCs), and disease in the bone marrow as an adjunctive tool in caring for hematologic cancer patients is expanding. This holds true for lymphoma where these biomarkers are being explored as a means of genotyping and quantifying disease. Regarding the latter, they can be used to monitor measurable residual disease (MRD) during and after treatment. This holds potential for aiding clinical decisions amidst treatment, detecting earlier relapse, and improving prognostication. Here, we review the evidence to support these ap...
Source: Current Hematologic Malignancy Reports - November 6, 2023 Category: Hematology Source Type: research

Updates in the Classification of T-cell Lymphomas and Lymphoproliferative Disorders
Abstract  Purpose of ReviewMature T/NK-cell neoplasms comprise a heterogeneous group of diseases with diverse clinical, histopathologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular features. A clinically relevant, comprehensive, and reproducible classification system for T/NK-cell neoplasms is essential for optimal management, risk stratification, and advancing understanding of these diseases. Two classification systems for lymphoid neoplasms were recently introduced: the 5th edition of World Health Organization classification (WHO-HAEM5) and the 2022 International Consensus Classification (ICC). In this review, we summarize the basi...
Source: Current Hematologic Malignancy Reports - October 23, 2023 Category: Hematology Source Type: research

Genetic Counseling and Family Screening Recommendations in Patients with Telomere Biology Disorders
AbstractPurpose of ReviewTelomere biology disorders (TBDs) encompass a spectrum of genetic diseases with a common pathogenesis of defects in telomerase function and telomere maintenance causing extremely short telomere lengths. Here, we review the current literature surrounding genetic testing strategies, cascade testing, reproductive implications, and the role of genetic counseling.Recent FindingsThe understanding of the genetic causes and clinical symptoms of TBDs continues to expand while genetic testing and telomere length testing are nuanced tools utilized in the diagnosis of this condition. Access to genetic counseli...
Source: Current Hematologic Malignancy Reports - October 3, 2023 Category: Hematology Source Type: research

NK Cell Therapeutics for Hematologic Malignancies: from Potential to Fruition
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe current review focuses on the preclinical development and clinical advances of natural killer (NK) cell therapeutics for hematologic malignancies and offers perspective on the unmet challenges that will direct future discovery in the field.Recent FindingsApproaches to improve or re-direct NK cell anti-tumor functions against hematologic malignancies have included transgenic expression of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), administration of NK cell engagers including BiKEs and TriKEs that enhance antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) by co-engaging NK cell CD16 and antigens on tumors, ...
Source: Current Hematologic Malignancy Reports - September 26, 2023 Category: Hematology Source Type: research

An Update on the Management of Advanced Phase Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
AbstractPurpose of ReviewWhile most patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) present in a chronic phase and are expected to have a normal life expectancy, some patients present with or progress to a more aggressive accelerated phase (AP) or blast phase (BP) of CML. Herein, we discuss the diagnostic considerations of advanced phase CML and review its contemporary management.Recent FindingsLater-generation, more potent BCR::ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as ponatinib may result in superior outcomes in patients with advanced phase CML. For CML-BP, combination approaches directed against the blast immunophenot...
Source: Current Hematologic Malignancy Reports - August 31, 2023 Category: Hematology Source Type: research

Central Nervous System Relapse in T and NK cell Lymphomas
AbstractPurpose of ReviewT and NK cell lymphomas are relatively rare and heterogeneous forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that are associated with high rates of mortality. Central nervous system relapse carries significant morbidity, though management is largely extrapolated from literature in B cell neoplasms. As such, outcomes for central nervous system involvement in T/NK cell lymphomas are dismal with no standard of care. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology of central nervous system relapse in T/NK cell lymphomas and critically analyze available literature regarding prophylaxis and treatment.Recent FindingsRetrospec...
Source: Current Hematologic Malignancy Reports - August 25, 2023 Category: Hematology Source Type: research