Targeting ’anti-tumor’ genes to provide better treatment for leukemia

Scientists discuss the possibility of offering personalized treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia by regulating the expression of a gene known for its "anti-tumorous" properties. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is one of the most common blood cancers in adults. The disease originates in B cells - the part of the immune system that produces antibodies - and then evolves slowly, typically affecting older people. Today, the best method of treating severe forms of CLL is chemotherapy, potentially supplemented by healthy stem-cell transplants. But new therapies, possibly less invasive and more effective, are currently being developed, and they could be enhanced considerably by a deeper understanding of how genetics contributes to disease susceptibility. An anti-tumor gene Each individual has their genetic material stored in DNA within the nuclei of their cells. Variations in a single base in a given nucleotide sequence of DNA results in genetic differences between people.