PIM2 and NF-κβ gene expression in a sample of AML and ALL Egyptian patients and its relevance to response to treatment

Background The relation between PIM2 and the transcriptional factor NF κβ have been controversial in literature. The significance of PIM2 and NF-κβ genes expression on the incidence of acute leukemia (AML and ALL) and its relevance to the response rate was evaluated. Sixty de novo acute leukemia patients were stratified in 2 groups: 30 acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and 30 acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients and compared to 30 sex- and age-matched controls. The expression level of PIM2 and NF κβ genes was measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR). The patients were followed with clinical examination and complete blood counts. Results The expression level of PIM2 gene was significantly higher in AML patients ( P <0.001) compared to the control group. The mean expression level of NF κβ gene was significantly high in AML and ALL patients compared to the healthy control group ( P =0.037 and P <0.001; respectively). The overall survival in AML patients was higher in NF κβ gene low expressers compared to high expressers ( P =0.047). The number of AML patients who achieved complete remission was significantly higher in PIM2 gene low expressers in comparison to PIM2 gene high expressers ( P =0.042). Conclusion PIM2 and NF κβ genes might have a role in the pathogenesis of acute leukemia, poor overall survival, and failure of response to induction therapy.