Bax Bcl-2 and Bax/Bcl-2 as prognostic markers in acute myeloid leukemia: are we ready for Bcl-2-directed therapy?

摘要

PurposeMany anticancer drugs induce apoptosis in malignant cells, and resistance to apoptosis could lead to suboptimal or no therapeutic benefit. Two cytoplasmic proteins, B-cell lymphoma protein 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X (Bax) and Bcl-2, act as a promoter and an inhibitor of apoptosis, respectively. Both Bax and Bcl-2 as well as their ratio have been regarded as prognostic markers in various cancers. However, conflicting results have been reported. A clear understanding of apoptosis has also become crucial due to reports about anti-Bcl-2 chemotherapy. We explored the relationship of Bax and Bcl-2 gene expression and their ratio with the therapeutic response in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients.