Perturbed epigenetic transcriptional regulation in AML with IDH mutations causes increased susceptibility to NK cells [TT-Seq]

ABSTRACT: IDH mutations are found in 20% of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. IDH inhibitors (IDHi) have emerged as a novel treatment option. However, only 30-40% of patients respond to single drug treatment and there is an unmet need for improvement as well as identifying alternative treatment options. The overall aim of this study was therefore to gain deeper insights into the molecular signatures of IDH mutations, the effects of IDHi as well as to identify a molecular vulnerability to tailor novel therapies for AML patients with IDH mutations. Here, we have characterized the transcriptional and epigenetic landscape before and after treatment with IDH2i AG-221, using an IDH2 mutated AML cell line model and AML patient cohorts. We discovered decreased DNA hydroxymethylation in IDH2 mutated AML cells, particular in enhancers and a perturbed transcriptional regulatory network involving myeloid transcription factors. In addition, hypermethylation of the HLA I cluster caused a dramatic down-regulation of HLA genes, triggering an enhanced natural killer (NK) cell activation, and displayed an increased susceptibility to NK cell mediated killing. These responses were reverted when the AML cells were pre-exposed to IFN-gamma, resulting in up-regulation of cell surface HLA class I. Finally, analyses of DNA methylation data from IDHi-treated patients showed that non-responders continued to harbor hypermethylation in HLA class I genes, suggesting maintained susceptibility to NK cells. In conclusion, this study provides new insights into the perturbed epigenetic and transcriptional regulation in IDH mutated AML and shed light on a potential strategy for personalized medicine in AML.

ORGANISM(S): Homo sapiens

PROVIDER: GSE207830 | GEO | 2023/07/09

REPOSITORIES: GEO