The novel TERF2::PDGFRB fusion gene enhances tumorigenesis via PDGFRB/STAT5 signalling pathways and sensitivity to TKI in ph-like ALL.

ABSTRACT

Patients with Philadelphia chromosome-like acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (Ph-like ALL) often face a grim prognosis, with PDGFRB gene fusions being commonly detected in this subgroup. Our study has unveiled a newfound fusion gene, TERF2PDGFRB, and we have found that patients carrying this fusion gene exhibit sensitivity to dasatinib. Ba/F3 cells harbouring the TERF2PDGFRB fusion display IL-3-independent cell proliferation through activation of the p-PDGFRB and p-STAT5 signalling pathways. These cells exhibit reduced apoptosis and demonstrate sensitivity to imatinib in vitro. When transfused into mice, Ba/F3 cells with the TERF2PDGFRB fusion gene induce tumorigenesis and a shortened lifespan in cell-derived graft models, but this outcome can be improved with imatinib treatment. In summary, we have identified the novel TERF2PDGFRB fusion gene, which exhibits oncogenic potential both in vitro and in vivo, making it a potential therapeutic target for tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs).