CLL-derived exosomes alter body¡¯s immune and hematopoietic systems in CLL patients
MD Anderson Research Highlight April 15, 2025
Immunosuppression, neutropenia and anemia can occur in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) ¨C a type of blood cancer that disrupts the immune system and blood cell production ¨C but their origins remain unknown. Researchers led by Ivo Veletic, M.D., and , discovered that exosomes, which are tiny particles released by CLL cells, might play a significant role in these abnormalities. In this study, the researchers found that exosomes engulfed by healthy blood cells suppressed normal blood cell development and altered gene activity in ways that made immune cells less effective at attacking cancer cells. The researchers also found that CLL-derived exosomes carry RNA that promotes cancer cell growth and survival. The findings suggest that CLL-derived exosomes disrupt the immune and hematopoietic systems and contribute to disease progression, opening the door for researchers to develop therapies that specifically counteract these harmful effects and improve clinical outcomes in CLL. Learn more in .
This study exemplifies how neoplastic cell-derived exosomes contribute to signs and symptoms of CLL and to the emergence of second neoplasms in cancer patients. We believe these insights could lead to better treatment strategies by disrupting the role exosomes play in cancer progression.