Clonal Hematopoiesis: Role in Hematologic and Non-Hematologic Malignancies

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) ensure the coordinated and balanced production of all hematopoietic cell types throughout life. Aging is associated with a gradual decline of the self-renewal and regenerative potential of HSCs and with the development of clonal hematopoiesis. Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) defines the clonal expansion of genetically variant hematopoietic cells bearing one or more gene mutations and/or structural variants (such as copy number alterations). CHIP increases exponentially with age and is associated with cancers, including hematologic neoplasia, cardiovascular and other diseases. The presence of CHIP consistently increases the risk of hematologic malignancy, particularly in individuals who have CHIP in association with peripheral blood cytopenia.

Automated summary

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) ensure the coordinated and balanced production of all types of hematopoietic cells throughout life. Aging is associated with a gradual decline of HSCs' self-renewal and regenerative potential, leading to the development of clonal hematopoiesis. Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) refers to the clonal expansion of genetically variant hematopoietic cells with gene mutations and/or structural variants. CHIP increases exponentially with age and is linked to cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and other illnesses. The presence of CHIP significantly raises the risk of hematologic malignancy, especially in individuals with CHIP and peripheral blood cytopenia.