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Research and new methods

Targeting BCL-2: removing the cell's shield

BCL-2 is a protein that protects cells from natural programmed death (apoptosis). Many leukaemia cells rely on it to survive. BCL-2 inhibitors take this shield away.

Last updated: ~1 min read
Small blue tablets in gloved hands
Figure 1.BCL-2 inhibitors are tablets taken by mouth

01Short answer

BCL-2 inhibitors are used in CLL and, combined with other medicines, in AML for older people or those not suited to intensive chemotherapy. Cells can break down quickly, so there is a risk of tumour lysis syndrome; treatment therefore starts gradually, with close attention to fluids and blood tests. Low neutrophils and infection risk can also occur. Research is testing new combinations with BCL-2 inhibitors and their use in other conditions.

02Simple explanation

Restores apoptosis.

Used in CLL and AML.

A gradual start.

Frequent blood tests.

03Scientific explanation

NCI: treatment options for CLL and AML include targeted therapy with a BCL-2 inhibitor.

NCI: new treatments are tested step by step, from the laboratory to clinical trials; only those proven safe and beneficial become standard care.

04What happens in the body?

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death.

The signal restored
Figure 2.The signal restored.

Tumour lysis syndrome

Changes in blood salts when many cells break down quickly.

A gradual start
Figure 3.A gradual start — Targeting BCL-2: removing the cell's shield

How to read the news

Research news brings hope, but not every advance suits everyone. Look at who it was tested in, at what phase and in how many people.

Talk to your doctor

Show your doctor what you have read; they will explain how it relates to your diagnosis and treatment. Do not change your treatment on your own.

05From research news to a conversation: four steps

Read, check, ask, decide together.

Read — From a trusted source.1ReadFrom a trusted source.
Check — Phase, participants, result.2CheckPhase, participants, result.
Ask — Show your doctor.3AskShow your doctor.
Decide — Together, without rushing.4DecideTogether, without rushing.
SourceA trusted site.
DoctorA personal explanation.
SafetyNot changing treatment yourself.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
ApoptosisProgrammed cell death.
Tumour lysis syndromeChanges in blood salts when many cells break down quickly.
How to read the newsResearch news brings hope, but not every advance suits everyone. Look at who it was tested in, at what phase and in how many people.
Talk to your doctorShow your doctor what you have read; they will explain how it relates to your diagnosis and treatment. Do not change your treatment on your own.

07Key terms

BCL-2
A protein that protects cells from dying.
Tumour lysis
Mass breakdown of cancer cells.
Clinical trial
Testing a new treatment with volunteers.
Evidence
A result confirmed by reliable research.

08Key points

  • Prepare.
  • Drink.
  • Have tests.
  • Check the source.
  • Talk to your doctor.

09Frequently asked questions

Why does treatment start slowly?

To lower the risk of tumour lysis.

How much should I drink?

Your doctor will tell you; do not change it yourself.

Is this advance right for me?

Only your treating doctor can say, based on your diagnosis, stage and condition.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Why does treatment start slowly?

  2. How much should I drink?

  3. Is this advance right for me?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) – Patient Version
  2. National Cancer Institute. Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) – Patient Version
  3. National Cancer Institute. What Are Clinical Trials?
  4. National Cancer Institute. Phases of Clinical Trials
  5. National Cancer Institute. Using Trusted Resources
  6. Indian Council of Medical Research. Clinical Trials Registry – India
  7. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: in vitro
  8. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: in vivo
  9. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: animal model
  10. National Cancer Institute. Childhood Cancers
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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