G-Quadruplex Forming DNA Sequence Context Is Enriched around Points of Somatic Mutations in a Subset of Multiple Myeloma Patients.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological malignancy, which remains incurable despite recent advances in treatment strategies. Like other forms of cancer, MM is characterized by genomic instability, caused by defects in DNA repair. Along with mutations in DNA repair genes and genotoxic drugs used to treat MM, non-canonical secondary DNA structures (four-stranded G-quadruplex structures) can affect accumulation of somatic mutations and chromosomal abnormalities in the tumor cells of MM patients.

Transcription of Genes in Hematopoietic Niche's Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Multiple Myeloma Patients with Different Responses to Treatment.

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are involved in bone tissue remodeling due to their ability to differentiate into osteoblasts and to influence osteoclasts' activity. Multiple myeloma (MM) is associated with bone resorption. During disease progression, MSCs acquire a tumor-associated phenotype, losing their osteogenic potential.

Genome Instability in Multiple Myeloma: Facts and Factors.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant neoplasm of terminally differentiated immunoglobulin-producing B lymphocytes called plasma cells. MM is the second most common hematologic malignancy, and it poses a heavy economic and social burden because it remains incurable and confers a profound disability to patients. Despite current progress in MM treatment, the disease invariably recurs, even after the transplantation of autologous hematopoietic stem cells (ASCT).