Dr. Francesco Forconi on B-cell Receptor Structure and Function in CLL

Francesco Forconi, MD, associate professor of Hematology, University of Southampton, United Kingdom, discusses the role of the B-cell receptor (BCR) in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

CLL is a disease with a very variable outcome, says Forconi. It was recently published that the ability of CLL to progress depends on the BCR immunoglobulin (IgM) levels and the BCR signaling levels. Those cells that have a stronger capacity through IgM will progress more rapidly than those that have low IgM signaling capacity or lower IgM levels.

By targeting this molecule it may be possible to improve outcomes, says Forconi. A better understanding of how the BCR functions in CLL will make it easier to design a therapeutic regimen to fight the disease, he says.