Acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome find new target of 11q amplification in GAB2

10-19-2006

GAB2 was proposed as a new target of 11q amplification in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).

According to a study from Austria, "Chromosome arm 11q amplifications involving the mixed lineage leukemia gene (MLL) locus are rare but recurrent aberrations in AML and MDS. We have recently shown that in addition to the MLL core amplicon, independent sequences in 11q23-24 and/or 11q13.5 are coamplified within the same cytogenetic markers in 90% and 60% of patients, respectively."

"Here we further narrow down the minimal amplicon in 11q13.5 to 1.17 Mb by means of semi-quantitative PCR and FISH analyses. The newly defined amplicon contains 7 genes, including the GRB2-associated binding protein 2 (GAB2). Using real-time RT-PCR we show a significant transcriptional upregulation of GAB2 in the patients who have GA82 coamplified with MLL," explained A. Zatkova and colleagues, Medizinische Universitat Wien.

The researchers concluded, "Thus, the adaptor molecule GAB2 that has already been shown to enhance oncogenic signaling in other neoplasias appears as a novel target of 11q amplification in AML/MDS."

Zatkova and colleagues published the results of their research in Genes Chromosomes & Cancer (GAB2 is a novel target of 11q amplification in AML/MDS. Genes Chromosomes Cancer, 2006;45(9):798-807).

For additional information, contact A. Zatkova, Medizinische Universitat Wien, Clinic Institute Med & Chemical Laboratory Diagnostic, KIMCL, Dept. of Human Genetics, Abt Humangenet, Wahringer Str 10, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.

The publisher of the journal Genes Chromosomes & Cancer can be contacted at: Wiley-Liss, Division John Wiley & Sons Inc., 111 River St., Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA.

This article was prepared by Clinical Oncology Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2006, Clinical Oncology Week via NewsRx.com.