Evaluation of Wilms’ Tumor (WT1) Gene Methylation in Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia Patients

Abstract

Background: Leukemia is the most common type of childhood cancer, with acute lymphoblastic leukemia being the most common subtype among children. Epigenetic factors, such as DNA methylation, are found to be important in leukemia. According to the National Cancer Institute, Wilms’ tumor (WT1) is among the most important tumor antigens. This study examines WT1 gene methylation as a diagnostic or therapeutic method in patients afflicted by ALL. Methods: 37 ALL patients were enrolled in this study before initiation of treatment. Twelve healthy subjects were used as the control group. After DNA extraction and conversion with bisulfite, WT1 gene methylation in samples was analyzed via the MSP technique. Results: The WT1 gene promoter was not methylated in patients or the control group. Conclusion: Due to the absence of WT1 gene promoter methylation in patients, as well as the healthy group, it is likely that methylation of the promoter of this gene is of no consequence in leukemia development, and subsequently cannot aid in its diagnosis.

Keywords

• Acute lymphoblastic leukemia
• DNA methylation
• Epigenetics
• Wilms’ tumor gene (WT1)