
From left: John Schuetz, PhD, and Aaron Pitre, PhD
Scientists have discovered how a link between two proteins in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) enables cancer cells to resist chemotherapy. Disrupting that link could render the cells vulnerable to treatment.
John Schuetz, PhD, of St. Jude Pharmaceutical Sciences, and his colleagues knew a protein called ABCC4 is elevated in aggressive cases of AML. The team searched for other proteins that might interact with ABCC4 and enable its function. By screening hundreds of proteins, they found one called MPP1, which was greatly increased in AML.
The findings could help clinicians identify patients with high levels of ABCC4 and MPP1. Such patients might benefit from drugs that disrupt those proteins.
The findings could also lead to drugs to enhance chemotherapy in patients with colon and breast cancers and the brain tumor medulloblastoma.
A report on this research appeared in the journal Nature Communications.
More Information
-
St. Jude Newsroom
Visit the St. Jude newsroom to read our latest news, find media relations contacts and explore resources for journalists and bloggers.
-
Research at St. Jude
At St. Jude, science matters. From molecular breakthroughs to innovative therapies, our research discovers the cures of tomorrow, and saves children's lives today.
-
Research News & Publications
Browse the latest peer-reviewed articles from St. Jude investigators and clinicians, as well as breaking news, in-depth features and our Scientific Report.
-
About St. Jude
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
-
Clinical & Research Innovation
At St. Jude, we dream big, and build our research programs to match. Explore just a few of the pioneering initiatives that make St. Jude different.
-
Careers
St. Jude is a world-class research hospital seeking a diverse staff of faculty, researchers, clinicians, fundraisers and more. Find a job and help save lives.
-
Education and Training
St. Jude offers world-class scientific and clinical training experiences for fellows, students and other trainees. We also share knowledge through international outreach.