Bone marrow neoplastic niche in leukemia

Objectives: Neoplastic niche is a specific microenvironment for growth and proliferation of malignant cells. Here we review the leukemic niche and its constituent stem cells, signaling pathways and essential chemokines. Methods: Relevant literature was identified by a PubMed search (2000-2013) of English-language literature using the terms neoplastic niche, chemokines, and leukemia. Discussion: Leukemia is caused by malignant hematopoietic stem cells and precursors. Important molecules and signals are involved in interactions between leukemic cells and their microenvironment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in expression regulation of oncogenes, transcription factors, signaling molecules and in eventual fate of the cell. It seems necessary to evaluate the relationship between aberrant miRNA expression and malignant transformation of bone marrow niche. Conclusions: Characterizing malignant leukemic cells, activated signaling pathways, and molecules involved in disease progression will result in understanding the causes of drug resistance, relapse factors, and effective treatments.