MLL rearrangements, (11q23)
MLL/ALL1/HRX gene (11q23) encodes a 90 amino acid protein and is highly expressed in the thymus, but not in peripheral lymphoid tissues. In contrast to its restricted normal hematopoietic tissue distribution, this gene is expressed in all leukemia cell lines studied.
Chromosomal rearrangements of the human MLL gene are associated with acute leukemias (acute lymphoblastic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia). Although more than 30 different translocations involving the MLL gene are known, the most common ones are t(4;11)(q21; q23), t(9;11)(p22;q23) and t(11;19)(q23;p13).
The MLL gene rearrangement is generally related with poor prognosis. Therefore, early and rapid detection of this alteration has direct implications for treatment options.
References
- Meyer C, et al. (2013) Leukemia 27, 2165–2176.
- Puumala SE, et al. (2013) Pediatr Blood Cancer. 60(5):728-33.
- Szczepański T, et al. (2011) Lancet Oncol 11: 880–889.
- Linabery AM, Ross JA. (2008) Cancer; 112: 416–432.
- van der Burg M, et al. (2004) Leukemia 18: 895–908.
