The aim of this project is to use gene expression microarrays to detect expression profiles which may be associated with TKI resistance in order to better stratify CML patients and allow a more targeted approach to therapy. The project may also help elucidate the mechanism of resistance in those without a discernible TKD mutation. Ultimately it is hoped that this would lead to larger studies which could improve the clinical pathway for CML patients without TKD mutations.
Some previous studies have studied the gene expression profile of CML patients demonstrating resistance to TKIs, using Affymetrix arrays. However, none of these appear to have specifically investigated non-responders with and without a TKD mutation.
