Exploring the impact of IKZF1 and its targeting microRNAs in the pathogenesis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

BACKGROUND

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is an aggressive hematologic malignancy driven by uncontrolled immature lymphoid cell proliferation. Its prognosis is significantly influenced by IKZF1 gene alterations which contribute to treatment resistance and relapse.

AIM: This study investigates the role of specific IKZF1-targeting microRNAs (e.g., hsa-miR-488, hsa-miR-4311) in ALL pathogenesis and their potential as therapeutic targets.

METHODS

Peripheral blood samples were collected from 32 ALL patients and 20 healthy controls. Total RNA and miRNAs were extracted, and cDNA was synthesized. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to evaluate the expression of IKZF1 and the candidate miRNAs. Statistical analyses included non-parametric tests to compare expression levels between groups.

RESULTS

IKZF1 expression was significantly reduced in ALL patients compared to controls (median: 0.1160 vs. 0.8245; p = 0.002). Among the miRNAs analyzed, only hsa-miR-8085 showed a significant decrease in ALL patients (median: 0.0192 vs. 0.3411; p = 0.008). No significant differences were observed for hsa-miR-488, hsa-miR-4311, hsa-miR-6731-5p, or hsa-miR-6833-3p.

CONCLUSIONS

The significant downregulation of IKZF1 and hsa-miR-8085 in ALL patients suggests their involvement in the development of leukemia and highlights their potential as diagnostic markers or therapeutic targets.