New Insights into Leukemia: Blocking Stem Cells to Halt Cancer Progression
Researchers at the University of Oslo have identified a potential new strategy for combating acute myeloid leukemia (AML), an aggressive form of blood cancer. A study published in Nature Communications reveals a way to stop malignant stem cells from developing, offering hope for more effective treatments, particularly for older adults who may not be candidates for stem cell transplantation.
Understanding Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, characterized by the rapid growth of abnormal blood cells. It is most common in older adults, with fewer than 5 in 100 patients over the age of 65 surviving the disease. 1 The current standard treatment, stem cell transplantation, is intensive and carries significant risks, making it unsuitable for many patients.
The Role of Stem Cells in Leukemia Development
The study focused on blood stem cells in the bone marrow, which have the ability to either remain dormant or divide and create new blood cells. In healthy individuals, these stem cells develop into red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. But, in AML, these stem cells transform into cancer cells instead of healthy blood cells. 1
Key Discovery: Succinate and SUCNR1
Researchers, led by Associate Professor Lorena Arranz at the University of Oslo, discovered that the development of leukemia is influenced by signals from the stem cells’ environment. Specifically, they identified the molecules succinate and its receptor, SUCNR1, as crucial regulators of stem cell behavior. 1
SUCNR1 activation helps maintain a healthy balance by controlling the alarmins S100A8 and S100A9, keeping stem cells in a healthy state. The study found that low levels of SUCNR1 in patients with AML are associated with poorer survival rates. 1
Findings in Patient Data and Mouse Models
The research team analyzed data from AML patients and conducted experiments using mouse models of the disease. They found that manipulating the levels of succinate, SUCNR1, and S100A9 could influence leukemia development in mice. 1
A New Perspective on Succinate
Traditionally, succinate has been viewed as a factor that promotes the progression of AML. However, this study reveals a protective side to succinate, acting through SUCNR1. 1 This finding opens up new avenues for therapeutic intervention.
Future Directions and Personalized Treatment
Associate Professor Arranz is optimistic about the potential for developing new treatments based on these findings. “The next step will be to explore how we can harness this in treatment,” she says. 1 Researchers likewise believe the study could contribute to the development of personalized treatments for AML, tailored to individual patients’ SUCNR1 levels. 1
Further research is ongoing to translate these findings into clinical applications and improve outcomes for patients with acute myeloid leukemia.