BCA: Unique Immune Cell Linked to Aggressive Leukemia May Lead to Improved Treatment Outcomes

Written By: Jackie Maupin, Indiana University 

Summarized By: Jessica Dinh 

Abstract 

In the continuous battle against leukemia, there has to be a lot of strenuous research done in order to find a cure. There have recently been findings from Indiana University School of Medicine that help us take a step closer to a breakthrough. The former finding of an immune cell never been seen before, and with the findings of it, it may lead to a future breakthrough in its research. 

Acute Myeloid Leukemia 

Acute Myeloid Leukemia is a cancer that develops in the bone marrow. It affects blood cell development as well as its function, especially affecting the myeloid cells. It is, unfortunately, the 6th leading cause for death in adults with leukemia due to its strength against many different treatments and because pateints are prone to relapse. Their medication methods have stayed the same over the past few years because of its strength. 

A possible breakthrough 

A new developing study analyzed the roles cells in the bone marrow that help the immune system. In experimental studies using mice and human cells, the researchers found a type of regulatory T cell (the cells in the bone marrow that help the immune system) with a unique trait that stopped the cancer-fighting immune cells from working. These dangerous cells build up in the body to support the cancer and fight off immunity. To solve this problem, a team led by Sophie Paczesny created antibody therapy that got rid of the harmful cells and restored the immune system’s power to hopefully fight off the cells."Our approach introduces a new therapeutic strategy with the potential to offer hope for patients with limited treatment options, paving the way for more effective and durable cancer immunotherapies," said Baskar Ramdas, PhD. “It's designed to prevent relapse, enhance immune response and deliver lasting survival benefits for patients facing the toughest forms of cancer."

Summary 

Moving forward, the researchers plan to keep developing their new antibody method and clinicalyl testing it in acute myeloid leukemia patients. They will also further their prior research on the cell to find out any new information that could be helpful. Even if this research leads to another dead end, it gives them hope to fight this battle of cancer, 

Baskar Ramdas working in the Kapur lab, photo by Jackie Maupin, IU School of Medicine

Works Cited

https://medicine.iu.edu/news/2025/07/t-cell-acute-myeloid-leukemia-treatment?utm_