Cyclopamine induces eosinophilic differentiation and upregulates CD44 expression in myeloid leukemia cells.

Authors :: Takahashi T
Kawakami K
Mishima S
Akimoto M
Takenaga K
Suzumiya J
Honma Y
Source :: Leukemia research [Leuk Res] 2011 May; Vol. 35 (5), pp. 638-45. Date of Electronic Publication: 2010 Oct 23.
Publication Year :: 2011
Abstract: Cyclopamine, a plant-derived steroidal alkaloid, inhibits the hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway by antagonizing Smoothened. This drug can induce the differentiation of myeloid leukemia cell lines and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells in primary culture. The treated cells were stained with Luxol-fast-blue, which is specific for eosinophilic granules. Ligation of CD44 with some specific monoclonal antibodies can reverse the differentiation of AML cells. Combined treatment with cyclopamine and a monoclonal antibody to ligate CD44 more than additively induced the differentiation of HL-60 cells. These results may provide useful information for the development of a CD44-targeted therapy in AML.<br /> (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

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