Regulation of gene expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells in response to arsenic trioxide.

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is characterized by the accumulation of malignant CD5+ B lymphocytes (CLL cells) in the peripheral blood, and their progressive infiltration in lymphoid organs. Despite the efforts made, CLL remains an incurable disease. It is therefore crucial to continue searching for new therapeutic agents and targets. Arsenic trioxide (ATO) induces apoptosis in all CLL cases and it could constitute an efficient therapy for this disease.

6