Study of microRNA 155 and microRNA 370 Expression in Newly Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous hematologic malignancy marked by the clonal expansion of immature myeloid cells in the bone marrow and peripheral circulation. Gene alterations, including those affecting microRNAs (miRNAs), contribute to this process by modifying the expression of key genes. Given the essential role of miRNAs in cellular functions like growth and differentiation, their study is critical for understanding AML. Objectives: This investigation explored the roles of microRNA-155 (miR-155) and microRNA-370 (miR-370) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. Methods: The study included 50 subjects, divided into two equal groups: newly diagnosed AML patients and healthy controls. Patients underwent comprehensive diagnostic evaluations including CBC, blood film, bone marrow aspiration, and immunophenotyping. The gene expression levels of miR-155 and miR-370 were measured in all subjects using real-time PCR.
Results: AML patients exhibited significantly elevated levels of both miR-155 and miR-370 in comparison with the control group. A significant increase in miR-155, but not miR-370, was found in deceased patients compared to those who survived. ROC curve analysis confirmed the diagnostic validity of both miRNAs for AML.
Conclusion: MiR-155 and miR-370 were found to be markedly upregulated in AML patients, suggesting their significant value as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for the disease.