Dna Microarrays: A Tool To Investigate The Biology Of Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a B cell neoplasia that affects plasma cells located in the bone marrow. Gene expression profile (GEP) analysis through DNA arrays is a powerful tool to dissect the biology of MM. Here we will describe studies that identified new powerful prognostic markers using this technology. In particular, GEP can be used to identify the main chromosomal anomalies, and GEP-based classifications of MM patients into 4 to 7 groups associated with a different prognostic have been reported. We will also describe how GEP analysis of myeloma cells, normal plasma cells and cells of the tumor environment makes it possible to identify of new myeloma growth factors and new potential therapeutic targets for MM.