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Targeting the c-kit receptor in the treatment of acute myelogenous leukemia

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Abstract

Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is a difficult disease to treat. Novel treatment strategies, including molecular targeted therapy, are being explored. The c-kit receptor represents a potential therapeutic target for AML. The receptor is expressed on more than 10% of blasts in 64% of patients with de novo AML and 95% of those with relapsed AML. It mediates proliferation and anti-apoptotic effects in AML. This review discusses the biology of c-kit in normal and malignant hematopoiesis and the recent clinical trials targeting c-kit in AML.

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  1. The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Desk R35, 9500 Euclid Avenue, 44195, Cleveland, OH, USA

    Anjali S. Advani MD

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  1. Anjali S. Advani MD
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Correspondence to Anjali S. Advani MD.

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Advani, A.S. Targeting the c-kit receptor in the treatment of acute myelogenous leukemia. Curr Hematol Malig Rep 1, 101–107 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11899-006-0020-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11899-006-0020-9

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