Multiple myeloma: A story of genes and the environment

Abstract

Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by the clonal expansion of mature B cells within bone marrow. This malignancy is believed to arise from mutations involving nonrandom translocations between specific oncogenes and immunoglobulin coding regions of B cells. Further mutations parallel a relatively welldescribed progression from benign MGUS to MM and secondary plasma cell leukemia. Current literature suggests that in addition to genetic adaptations, specific effectors of the bone marrow microenvironment might contribute significantly to both MM pathogenesis as well as to treatment failure. Within this chapter we discuss the molecular and biochemical factors that contribute to malignant potential of MM. © 2006 Humana Press Inc.