
Charles Mullighan, MBBS, MD, of St. Jude Pathology, pictured with first author Ilaria Iacobucci, PhD
Curing cancer is tough, especially when the diagnosis is uncertain.
For almost 100 years, specialists have tried to figure out how to define acute erythroid leukemia (AEL). There are no clear treatment guidelines for this disease. Sadly, there are few survivors.
St. Jude scientists recently led the largest and most complete effort yet to find the genetic basis of AEL in children and adults. Researchers from around the world joined the effort. The scientists found five age-related subgroups of AEL. Each has distinct genetic alterations and patterns of gene expression.
The work also revealed promising treatments and mutations to target.
“These results mark a new era in understanding and this aggressive leukemia,” said Charles Mullighan, MBBS, MD, of St. Jude Pathology.
A report on this work appeared in 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.