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Joshi SK, Pittsenbarger J, Kennedy VE, Peretz CAC, Perl AE, Smith CC, Tyner JW, Druker BJ, Traer E. The FLT3 N701K mutation causes clinical AML resistance to gilteritinib and triggers TKI sensitivity switch to quizartinib. Am J Hematol 2023; 98:E364-E368. [PMID: 37815132 PMCID: PMC10842343 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.27096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sunil K Joshi
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Division of Hematology & Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Janét Pittsenbarger
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Vanessa E Kennedy
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Cheryl A C Peretz
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Alexander E Perl
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Catherine C Smith
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jeffrey W Tyner
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Brian J Druker
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Division of Hematology & Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Elie Traer
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Division of Hematology & Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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2
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Lang TJL, Damm F, Bullinger L, Frick M. Mechanisms of Resistance to Small Molecules in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4573. [PMID: 37760544 PMCID: PMC10526197 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, great progress has been made in the therapy of AML by targeting cellular processes associated with specific molecular features of the disease. Various small molecules inhibiting FLT3, IDH1/IDH2, and BCL2 have already gained approval from the respective authorities and are essential parts of personalized therapeutic regimens in modern therapy of AML. Unfortunately, primary and secondary resistance to these inhibitors is a frequent problem. Here, we comprehensively review the current state of knowledge regarding molecular processes involved in primary and secondary resistance to these agents, covering both genetic and nongenetic mechanisms. In addition, we introduce concepts and strategies for how these resistance mechanisms might be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonio Johannes Lukas Lang
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Frederik Damm
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lars Bullinger
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mareike Frick
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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3
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Wang J, Tomlinson B, Lazarus HM. Update on Small Molecule Targeted Therapies for Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2023; 24:770-801. [PMID: 37195589 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-023-01090-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT The search for effective therapies for the highly heterogenous disease acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has remained elusive. While cytotoxic therapies can induce complete remission and even, at times, long-term survival, this approach is associated with significant toxic effects to visceral organs and worsening of immune dysfunction and marrow suppression leading to death. Sophisticated molecular studies have revealed defects within the AML cell that can be exploited by utilizing small molecule agents to target these defects, often dubbed "target therapy." Several medications have already established new standards of care for many patients with AML, including FDA-approved agents that inhibitor IDH1, IDH2, FLT3, and BCL-2. Emerging small molecules hold additional to add to the armamentarium of AML treatment options including MCL-1 inhibitors, TP53 inhibitors, menin inhibitors, and E-selectin antagonists. Moreover, the increasing options also mean that future combinations of these agents need to be explored, including with cytotoxic drugs and other newer emerging strategies such as immunotherapies for AML. Recent investigations continue to show that overcoming many of the challenges of treating AML finally is on the horizon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiasheng Wang
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Seidman Cancer Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, 11000 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Benjamin Tomlinson
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Seidman Cancer Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, 11000 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - Hillard M Lazarus
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Seidman Cancer Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, 11000 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
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Molica M, Perrone S, Rossi M. Gilteritinib: The Story of a Proceeding Success into Hard-to-Treat FLT3-Mutated AML Patients. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12113647. [PMID: 37297842 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12113647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The traditionally dismal outcome of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients carrying the FMS-related tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) mutations has been mitigated by the recent introduction of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) into clinics, such as midostaurin and gilteritinib. The present work summarizes the clinical data that led to the use of gilteritinib in clinical practice. Gilteritinib is a second-generation TKI with deeper single-agent activity than first-generation drugs against both FLT3-ITD and TKD mutations in human studies. Moreover, the phase I/II dose-escalation, dose-expansion Chrysalis trial showed an acceptable safety profile of gilteritinib (diarrhea, elevated aspartate aminotransferase, febrile neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, sepsis, and pneumonia) and a 49% overall response rate (ORR) in 191 FLT3-mutated relapsed/refractory (R/R) AML patients. In 2019, the pivotal ADMIRAL trial showed that the median overall survival was significantly longer in patients treated with gilteritinib than among those receiving chemotherapy (9.3 vs. 5.6 months, respectively) and the ORR to gilteritinib was 67.6%, outperforming the 25.8% for chemotherapy arm and leading to the license for its clinical use by the US Food and Drug Administration. Since then, several real-world experiences have confirmed the positive results in the R/R AML setting. Finally, gilteritinib-based combinations currently under investigation, with several compounds (venetoclax, azacitidine, conventional chemotherapy, etc.) and some practical tips (maintenance after allogeneic transplantation, interaction with antifungal drugs, extramedullary disease, and onset of resistance), will be analyzed in detail in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Molica
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Pugliese-Ciaccio, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Salvatore Perrone
- Department of Hematology, Polo Universitario Pontino, S.M. Goretti Hospital, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Marco Rossi
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Pugliese-Ciaccio, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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Bystrom R, Levis MJ. An Update on FLT3 in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Landscape. Curr Oncol Rep 2023; 25:369-378. [PMID: 36808557 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-023-01389-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to summarize the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with FMS-like tyrosine kinase-3 (FLT3) mutations. RECENT FINDINGS The recent European Leukemia Net (ELN2022) recommendations re-classified AML with FLT3 internal tandem duplications (FLT3-ITD) as intermediate risk regardless of Nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1) co-mutation or the FLT3 allelic ratio. Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT) is now recommended for all eligible patients with FLT3-ITD AML. This review outlines the role of FLT3 inhibitors in induction and consolidation, as well as for post-alloHCT maintenance. It outlines the unique challenges and advantages of assessing FLT3 measurable residual disease (MRD) and discusses the pre-clinical basis for the combination of FLT3 and menin inhibitors. And, for the older or unfit patient ineligible for upfront intensive chemotherapy, it discusses the recent clinical trials incorporating FLT3 inhibitors into azacytidine- and venetoclax-based regimens. Finally, it proposes a rational sequential approach for integrating FLT3 inhibitors into less intensive regimens, with a focus on improved tolerability in the older and unfit patient population. The management of AML with FLT3 mutation remains a challenge in clinical practice. This review provides an update on the pathophysiology and therapeutic landscape of FLT3 AML, as well as a clinical management framework for managing the older or unfit patient ineligible for intensive chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Bystrom
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mark J Levis
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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6
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Kayser S, Levis MJ. The clinical impact of the molecular landscape of acute myeloid leukemia. Haematologica 2023; 108:308-320. [PMID: 36722402 PMCID: PMC9890016 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2022.280801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Research into the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has led to remarkable advances in our understanding of the disease. Mutations now allow us to explore the enormous diversity among cytogenetically defined subsets of AML, particularly the large subset of cytogenetically normal AML. Despite the progress in unraveling the tumor genome, only a small number of recurrent mutations have been incorporated into risk-stratification schemes and have been proven to be clinically relevant, targetable lesions. The current World Health Organization Classification of myeloid neoplasms and leukemia includes eight AML categories defined by recurrent genetic abnormalities as well as three categories defined by gene mutations. We here discuss the utility of molecular markers in AML in prognostication and treatment decision-making. New therapies based on targetable markers include IDH inhibitors (ivosidenib, enasidenib), venetoclax-based therapy, FLT3 inhibitors (midostaurin, gilteritinib, and quizartinib), gemtuzumab ozogamicin, magrolimab and menin inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Kayser
- NCT Trial Center, National Center of Tumor Diseases, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg.
| | - Mark J. Levis
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Baltimore, MD, USA
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Ferng TT, Terada D, Ando M, Tarver TC, Chaudhary F, Lin KC, Logan AC, Smith CC. The Irreversible FLT3 Inhibitor FF-10101 Is Active Against a Diversity of FLT3 Inhibitor Resistance Mechanisms. Mol Cancer Ther 2022; 21:844-854. [PMID: 35395091 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Small-molecule FLT3 inhibitors have recently improved clinical outcomes for patients with FLT3-mutant acute myeloid leukemia (AML) after many years of development, but resistance remains an important clinical problem. FF-10101 is the first irreversible, covalent inhibitor of FLT3 which has previously shown activity against FLT3 tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance-causing FLT3 F691L and D835 mutations. We report that FF-10101 is also active against an expanded panel of clinically identified FLT3 mutations associated with resistance to other FLT3 inhibitors. We also demonstrate that FF-10101 can potentially address resistance mechanisms associated with growth factors present in the bone marrow microenvironment but is vulnerable to mutation at C695, the amino acid required for covalent FLT3 binding. These data suggest that FF-10101 possesses a favorable resistance profile that may contribute to improved single-agent efficacy when used in patients with FLT3-mutant AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy T Ferng
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Daisuke Terada
- Analysis Technology Center, FUJIFILM Corporation, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Makoto Ando
- Pharmaceutical Products Division, FUJIFILM Corporation, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Theodore C Tarver
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Fihr Chaudhary
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Kimberly C Lin
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Aaron C Logan
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Catherine C Smith
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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8
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Role of Biomarkers in FLT3 AML. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051164. [PMID: 35267471 PMCID: PMC8909069 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Genetically heterogeneous disorder acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is marked by recurring mutations in FLT3. Current FLT3 inhibitors and other emerging inhibitors have helped in the improvement of the quality of standard of care therapies; however, the overall survival of the patients remains static. This is due to numerous mutations in FLT3, which causes resistance against these FLT3 inhibitors. For effective treatment of AML patients, alternative approaches are required to overcome this resistance. Here, we will summarize the biomarkers for FLT3 inhibitors in AML, as well as the alternative measures to overcome resistance to the current therapies. Abstract Acute myeloid leukemia is a disease characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of clonal myeloid blast cells that are incapable of maturation to leukocytes. AML is the most common leukemia in adults and remains a highly fatal disease with a five-year survival rate of 24%. More than 50% of AML patients have mutations in the FLT3 gene, rendering FLT3 an attractive target for small-molecule inhibition. Currently, there are several FLT3 inhibitors in the clinic, and others remain in clinical trials. However, these inhibitors face challenges due to lack of efficacy against several FLT3 mutants. Therefore, the identification of biomarkers is vital to stratify AML patients and target AML patient population with a particular FLT3 mutation. Additionally, there is an unmet need to identify alternative approaches to combat the resistance to FLT3 inhibitors. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on the utilization of diagnostic, prognostic, predictive, and pharmacodynamic biomarkers for FLT3-mutated AML. The resistance mechanisms to various FLT3 inhibitors and alternative approaches to combat this resistance are also discussed and presented.
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Solana-Altabella A, Ballesta-López O, Megías-Vericat JE, Martínez-Cuadrón D, Montesinos P. Emerging FLT3 inhibitors for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2022; 27:1-18. [DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2021.2009800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Solana-Altabella
- Servicio de Farmacia, Área del Medicamento. Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe. Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia– Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE). Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia–Spain
| | - Octavio Ballesta-López
- Servicio de Farmacia, Área del Medicamento. Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe. Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia– Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE). Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia–Spain
| | - Juan Eduardo Megías-Vericat
- Servicio de Farmacia, Área del Medicamento. Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe. Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia– Spain
| | - David Martínez-Cuadrón
- Servicio de Farmacia, Área del Medicamento. Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe. Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia– Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE). Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia–Spain
| | - Pau Montesinos
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE). Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia–Spain
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia. Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe. Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia-Spain
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Friedman R. The molecular mechanisms behind activation of FLT3 in acute myeloid leukemia and resistance to therapy by selective inhibitors. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2021; 1877:188666. [PMID: 34896257 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2021.188666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia is an aggressive cancer, which, in spite of increasingly better understanding of its genetic background remains difficult to treat. Mutations in the FLT3 gene are observed in ≈30% of the patients. Most of these mutations are internal tandem duplications (ITDs) of a sequence within the protein coding region, an activation mechanism that is almost non-existent with other genes and cancers. As patients each carry their own unique set of mutations, it is challenging to understand how ITDs activate the protein, and ascertain the risk for each individual patient. Available treatment options are limited due to development of drug resistance. Here, recent studies are reviewed that help to better understand the molecular mechanism behind activation of the FLT3 protein due to mutations. It is argued that difference in mutation sequences and especially location might be coupled to prognosis. When it comes to FLT3 inhibitors, key differences between them can be attributed to the mode of inhibition (type-1 and type-2 inhibitors), effective inhibitory coefficient in the blood plasma and off-target binding. Accounting for the position and length of insertions may in the future be used to predict prognosis and rationalise treatment. Development of new inhibitors must take into account the potential for resistance mutations. Inhibitors aimed at multiple specific targets are currently being developed. These, and as well as combination therapies will hopefully lead to longer periods during which targeted FLT3 therapy will remain effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Friedman
- Department of Chemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Linnæus University, 391 82 Kalmar, Sweden.
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