Reciprocal Regulation of HSD11B1 and HSD11B2 Predicts Glucocorticoid Sensitivity in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

There are few biomarkers to predict efficacy of glucocorticoid treatment in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) at diagnosis. Here, we demonstrate reciprocal regulation of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11 beta-HSD), may predict the apoptotic response of ALL to glucocorticoid treatment. Our data may be useful to refine glucocorticoid treatment, to retain benefit while minimizing side effects.