Monitoring Minimal Residual Disease in RUNX1 -Mutated Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Abstract

Introduction: Mutated RUNX1 is considered a poor prognostic factor and usually is mutually exclusive with NPM1 mutations. Monitoring of molecular markers for minimal residual disease provides a powerful tool to assess remission and guide clinical decisions. Methods: Newly diagnosed RUNX1-mutated AML patients, designated to intensive chemotherapy-based treatment or nonintensive regimens, were monitored for mutated RUNX1 transcript levels by qPCR with patient-specific primers. Samples were obtained along the treatment course and follow-up. Results: A clear correlation was observed between mutated RUNX1 levels and response to treatment as observed by flow cytometry and STR-based assessment. Conclusion: We demonstrate the feasibility of RUNX1-based MRD to correlate with the clinicopathological status of leukemia. We further suggest how RUNX1 qPCR monitoring can influence clinical decision-making and contribute to improved personalized patient care.