Link between leukemia prognosis and multidrug resistance-related proteins studied

06-12-2006

The link between leukemia prognosis and multidrug resistance-related (MDR) proteins was studied.

According to recent research from Belgium, "An important problem in the treatment of children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is pre-existent or acquired resistance to structurally and functionally unrelated chemotherapeutic compounds. Various cellular mechanisms can give rise to MDR."

"Best studied is the transmembrane protein-mediated efflux of cytotoxic compounds that leads to decreased cellular drug accumulation and toxicity. Several MDR-related efflux pumps have been characterised, including P-glycoprotein (P-gp), multidrug resistance-associated protein 1 (MRP1), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) and lung resistance protein (LRP). P-gp expression and/or activity has been associated with unfavourable outcome in paediatric ALL patients, whereas MRP1 and BCRP do not seem to play a major role," explained K. Swerts and colleagues, State University of Ghent Hospital.

The researchers concluded, "LRP might contribute to drug resistance in B-lineage ALL, but larger studies are needed to confirm these results. The present review summarises the current knowledge concerning multidrug resistance-related proteins and focuses on the clinical relevance and prognostic value of these efflux pumps in childhood ALL."

Swerts and colleagues published their study in European Journal of Cancer (Prognostic significance of multidrug resistance-related proteins in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Eur J Cancer, 2006;42(3):295-309).

For additional information, contact K. Swerts, State University of Ghent Hospital, Dept. Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, Pintelaan 185, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.

Publisher contact information for the European Journal of Cancer is: Elsevier Science Ltd., the Boulevard, Langford Lane, Kidlington, Oxford OX5 1GB, Oxon, England.

Keywords: Ghent, Belgium, Breast Cancer Resistance Protein, Breast Carcinoma, Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, Drug Resistance, Lung Resistance Protein, Multidrug Resistance, Oncology, P-glycoprotein, Pediatric, Prognosis, Prognostics, Cancer Therapy, Multidrug Resistance Associated Protein 1.

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