Novel Therapeutic Targets in Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

Abstract

Purpose of Review: This review seeks to identify and describe novel genetic and protein targets and their associated therapeutics currently being used or studied in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Recent Findings: Over the course of the last 5–6 years, several targeted therapies have been approved by the FDA, for the treatment of both newly diagnosed as well as relapsed/refractory AML. These novel therapeutics, as well as several others currently under investigation, have demonstrated activity in AML and have improved outcomes for many patients. Summary: Patient outcomes in AML have slowly improved over time, though for many patients, particularly elderly patients or those with relapsed/refractory disease, mortality remains very high. With the identification of several molecular/genetic drivers and protein targets and development of therapeutics which leverage those mechanisms to target leukemic cells, outcomes for patients with AML have improved and continue to improve significantly.