Some children with leukemia still face long odds of being cured. In fact, survival rates are only 14-34% for certain children with a high-risk form called acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL).
Researchers recently found three genetic changes that can help identify AMKL patients most likely to benefit from blood stem cell transplants. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital led the international effort.
The study was the largest yet to search the human genome for genetic changes that cause AMKL. The study included 89 AMKL patients without Down syndrome who were treated at medical centers in the U.S., Europe and Asia.
Based on the findings, researchers suggest testing all new pediatric AMKL patients for these genetic changes. St. Jude has adopted the recommendations.
“These genetic alterations will improve tailored therapy by helping us better identify which patients need to undergo allogeneic stem cell transplant in first remission and which do not,” said Tanja Gruber, MD, PhD, of the St. Jude Department of Oncology.
The research appeared in the scientific journal Nature Genetics.
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.