The prognostic value of the miR-106b ∼ 25 cluster in chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Background

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most frequent leukemia in adults, with a very unpredictable clinical progression. Several prognostic markers and scoring systems have been established to aid in clinical decision and appropriate treatment. There is a growing significance to microRNAs (miRNAs) and their potential role in the pathophysiology and clinical outcome of CLL. Herein, we evaluated the effect of the miR-106b ∼ 25 cluster, including miR-106b, miR-93, and miR-25, on disease progression and survival in CLL patients.

Patients and methods

Newly diagnosed CLL patients (n = 50) and healthy controls (n = 50) were recruited in this study. MiR-106b, miR-93, and miR-25 expression was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Results

MiR-106b, miR-93, and miR-25 were highly expressed in CLL patients versus controls. There was a strong relationship between the studied miRNAs and conventional prognostic markers. Their levels were significantly elevated in patients classified as high-risk groups, with positive CD38, 17p deletion, and unmutated immunoglobulin heavy-chain gene variable region (IgVH). MiR-106b and miR-93 were negatively correlated with overall survival.

Conclusion

MiR-106b, miR-93, and miR-25 demonstrate overexpression in CLL. Their expression levels influence clinical outcome and may be useful prognostic biomarkers in CLL.