For the development of CLL, a common form of blood cancer, not only DNA mutations but also faulty epigenetic signals are responsible. These signals determine, in both healthy and cancerous cells, which parts of the genetic information are actually read. Scientists at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) have systematically investigated the epigenetic signals in CLL cells as part of a national research consortium. From their findings, they were able to develop a model that explains how faulty gene regulation occurs. This model allows researchers to predict which genes relevant to cancer development are deregulated in CLL cells, which can significantly impact the prognosis of the disease.
Original Publication: Mallm JP, Iskar M, Ishaque N, Klett LC, Kugler SJ, Muino JM, Teif VB, Poos AM, Großmann S, Erdel F, Tavernari D, Koser SD, Schumacher S, Brors B, König R, Remondini D, Vingron M, Stilgenbauer S, Lichter P, Zapatka M, Mertens D & Rippe K (2019) Linking aberrant chromatin features in chronic lymphocytic leukemia to deregulated transcription factor networks. Mol Syst Biol 5, e8339. doi: 10.15252/msb.20188339.
Reade more: DKFZ Press Release (in German)