Core-binding factor leukemia represents a subtype of AML and encompasses 30% of pediatric and 15% of adult AMLs. The core-binding factor complex is essential in the regulation of normal hematopoiesis and is composed of AML1 (also known as RUNX1) and CBFB. Chromosomal alterations involving the core-binding factor complex are well-known ?drivers? of leukemia development and have similar clinical and prognostic implications. A t(8;21) leads to the fusion oncoprotein AML1-ETO and an inv(16) leads to CBFB-MYH11. Surprisingly, these mutations alone do not induce AML in animal models, suggesting additional ?hits? are required. Mutations in one of four members of the cohesin complex (SMC1a, SMC3, RAD21, STAG1) are commonly found in patients with AML and frequently (18-20%) co-occur with AML1-ETO, but never with CBFB-MYH11. This suggests a selective pressure for the presence or absence of cohesin mutations depending upon the driver oncogene. By learning more about the genetic makeup of these leukemias and how additional mutations promote leukemogenesis, we can develop targeted therapies which will reduce both toxicity and the relapse rate compared to existing treatments. We hypothesize that cohesin mutations synergize with AML1-ETO during leukemic transformation, whereas cohesin mutations and CBFB-MYH11 form a synthetic lethal interaction.
In Aim 1, in vivo transplant studies will be performed with AML1- ETO;SMC3+/+ compared to AML1-ETO;SMC3+/- while CBFB-MYH11;SMC3+/+ and CBFB-MYH11; SMC3+/- will be studied in vitro.
In Aim 2, molecular studies will be performed to delve into the mechanisms driving leukemia. ChIP-sequencing will be performed to identify changes in AML1-ETO genomic occupancy upon introduction of cohesin haploinsufficiency. ATAC-seq and RNA-seq will be performed to identify changes in chromatin accessibility and transcriptome of CBFB-MYH11 due to cohesin haploinsufficiency. Our preliminary studies indicate that the loss of cohesin augments in vitro self-renewal of AML1-ETO transduced cells. Preliminary ATAC-sequencing demonstrates that several motifs implicated in myeloid development (RUNX1, GATA2, ERG, PU.1) are enriched in the AML1-ETO;SMC3+/- background. Further, RNA sequencing reveals upregulation of the MYC, Rb, and E2F oncogenic gene signatures in AML1-ETO;SMC3+/- compared to SMC3+/+. Training potential abounds for a future physician scientist within this proposal as it involves using clinical observations to generate a hypothesis, design a research plan and develop clinical correlations based upon the results of basic science research. Mentoring support will be easily accessible throughout this training, as will be all necessary equipment and resources needed to complete this project.
Core-binding factor leukemias represent 30% of pediatric and 15% of adult acute myeloid leukemias. There are two main subtypes, t(8;21) and inv(16), but only t(8;21) driven leukemias are also associated with mutations in the cohesin complex. Our goal is to understand the importance of these mutations in promoting leukemia development, which could lead to the identification of potential therapeutic targets that would be more effective and less toxic than currently used chemotherapy.
