Targeting stem cells suggests way to cure leukemia, mice study shows

Source: Canadian Press
Posted: September 24, 2006 17:28:34 EDT

Summary:

Scientists are investigating a novel way of treating a deadly form of leukemia: By targeting the stem cells that allow the cancer to return after chemotherapy has resulted in apparent remission. Using an experimental drug, researchers at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto were able to cure some mice transplanted with the human form of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The discovery offers promise that the drug could have the same effect in humans with the disease.

Commentary: Hopefully further research will enable scientists to eventually translate this advancement into an effective treatment for leukemia and other cancers. It will be important for human patients to be monitored over a long time period and for experiments to be replicated in a large and hetergenous patient population in order for the treatment to be deemed successful.