MicroRNA-125b as a valuable predictive marker for outcome after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

BackgroundRelapse is a frequent occurrence in autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT), and early relapse after AHSCT results in poor survival and low quality of life. Predictive marker determination for AHSCT outcomes could be helpful in the prevention of relapse through personalized medicine. Here the predictive value of circulatory microRNAs (miRs) expression for AHSCT outcomes was studied.Methods50 MM and lymphoma candidates for AHSCT participated in this study. Two plasma samples were obtained before AHSCT from each candidate; one before mobilization and the other after conditioning. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) were isolated by ultracentrifugation. miR-125b, miR-126, miR-150, and miR-155 expression were analyzed in both plasma and EVs using real time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Other data related to AHSCT and its outcomes were also collected. The predictive value of miRs and other factors for outcomes was assessed by multi-variant analysis.ResultsBy 90 weeks follow up after AHSCT, multi-variant and ROC analysis showed miR-125b as a predictive marker for relapse, high lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). The cumulative incidence of relapse, high LDH, and high ESR increased with an increase in circulatory miR-125b expression.ConclusionmiR-125b could be applicable in prognosis evaluation and also create a possible new targeted therapy opportunity for enhanced outcomes and survival after AHSCT.

Automated summary

This study investigated the predictive value of circulatory microRNAs (miRs) expression for outcomes of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT). The results showed that the expression of miR-125b was associated with relapse, high lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). This finding provides a potential opportunity for prognosis evaluation and new targeted therapy after AHSCT.