N-ras gene mutations in childhood acute non-lymphoblastic leukemia

Leuk Res. 1991;15(10):935-41. doi: 10.1016/0145-2126(91)90170-x.

Abstract

In view of the potential role for ras activation in leukemogenesis, we have screened a number of children with acute non-lymphoblastic leukemia (ANLL) for activating point mutations at codons 12, 13 and 61 of the N-ras proto-oncogene using panels of oligonucleotide probes in conjunction with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) gene amplification. In contrast to the frequent occurrence (approximately 30%) of N-ras mutation reported in adult ANLL, 6 of 46 cases (13%) at the time of diagnosis had N-ras mutations involving codons 12 and 13. In these patients we also determine whether presenting clinical symptoms, cellular pathology, karyotype, or eventual outcome distinguished them from the ras-negative group. N-ras activation tended to be associated with a higher white blood cell count at diagnosis (mean of 225,000/microliters vs 91,000/microliters) and fewer remissions obtained after 28 days of therapy (3/6, 50% vs 24/32, 75%). It is possible that activation of N-ras oncogene may be involved in the progression of some cases of childhood ANLL.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Codon / genetics
  • Female
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Genes, ras*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Karyotyping
  • Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute / blood
  • Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute / genetics*
  • Leukocyte Count
  • Male
  • Mutation*
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Proto-Oncogene Mas

Substances

  • Codon
  • MAS1 protein, human
  • Proto-Oncogene Mas