Oxidative stress is two-sided in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia.

Abstract

Oxidative stress caused by elevated ROS, as a novel therapeutic mechanism, has been implicated in various tumors including AML. AML cells are chronically under oxidative stress, yet overreliance on ROS production makes tumor cells increasingly vulnerable to further damage. Reducing the cytotoxic effect of ROS on normal cells while killing leukemia stem cell (LSC) with high levels of reactive oxygen species is a new challenge for oxidative stress therapy in leukemia. By searching literature databases, we summarized recent relevant studies. The relationship of ROS on AML genes, signaling pathways, and transcription factors, and the correlation of ROS with AML bone marrow microenvironment and autophagy were summarized. In addition, we summarize the current status of research on ROS and AML therapeutics. Finally, we discuss the research progress on redox resistance in AML. This review discusses the evidence showing the link between redox reactions and the progression of AML and compiles the latest research findings that will facilitate future biological studies of redox effects associated with AML treatment. We believe that exploiting this unique oxidative stress property of AML cells may provide a new way to prevent relapse and drug resistance.