Role of MRP1 in multidrug resistance in acute myeloid leukemia.

The best characterized resistance mechanism in adult acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the one mediated by the MDR1 gene which has been shown to be associated with poor outcome. However, alternative proteins such as the more recently recognized multidrug-associated protein (MRP1), may also contribute to the resistance to anthracyclines and etoposide in AML. Recently, the role of this protein was discussed and was unclear in AML. However, recent data concerning the functionality and the modulation of the activity of MRP1 may elucidate its role in comparison with other mechanisms of resistance. In this paper, we will review these recent data concerning the role of MRP1 in adult AML.