Molecular pathogenesis of multiple myeloma

Abstract

Multiple myeloma is a neoplasm of plasma cells, which evolves from monoclonal gammopathy of undeter­mined significance (MGUS) to aggressive disease by acquiring a series of mutations. Translocations involving the immunoglobulin loci are important for the pathogenesis of myelomagenesis, and the sequential acquisition of additional genetic aberrations and epigenetic changes can lead to disease progression. Recent progress in genome-wide sequencing studies revealed new and unexpected oncogenic mechanisms in myeloma, including the mutations of genes involved in protein translation and histone methylation as well as intratumor heterogeneity. A better understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of this disease is fundamental to developing targeted therapies and better prognostic models. Here we review the current understanding of myeloma pathogenesis for more effective treatment strategies.