Evaluation of the Expression Levels of Notch Signaling Pathway-Related Genes; JAG1, CXCR4, and MIB1 in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients

Abstract

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a complex disease characterized by clonal expansion of undifferentiated myeloid precursors, resulting in impaired hematopoiesis and bone marrow failure. Different genetic and environmental factors are believed to be involved in the pathogenesis of AML. Notch signaling with a tumor suppressing plays a role in myeloproliferative disorder and is a negative regulator of myeloid progenitor commitment. Crosstalk between Notch signaling and CXCR4 axis is a matter of debate in AML. Method: In the current case-control study, we evaluated the expression level of CXCR4, JAG1, and MIB1, which are all involved or related to Notch signaling in adult AML patients. Blood samples were obtained from 25 AML and 17 healthy individuals and the expression level of the selected genes was evaluated via the real-time PCR. Results: Our results revealed the increased expression of JAG1, but decreased expression of CXCR4 in AML patients in Iranian population of AML patients. Moreover, some gender-associated effects on the expression of JAG1 and CXCR4 were detected, which may be related to sex hormones. The expression level of MIB1 did not change significantly. The correlation analysis showed no correlations between the age of the patients and the expression levels of the genes. Conclusion: Herein, for the first time, we suggested some new evidence regarding the complex role of Notch signaling-related genes (CXCR4 and JAG1) in the pathogenesis of AML in Iranian patients.