Can Ph-like ALL be effectively targeted?

Philadelphia chromosome-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph-like ALL) is a high-risk subset of B-cell ALL with a spectrum of underlying genetic alterations that activate kinase or cytokine receptor signaling. Ph-like ALL occurs at all ages but is most common in adolescents and young adults and is postulated to be a factor in the inferior outcomes in this age group. Ph-like ALL confers a poor prognosis with conventional chemotherapy and the pediatric and adult oncology communities are conducting trials utilizing molecularly targeted approaches. In parallel, the role of immunotherapy is being assessed for this unique and biologically diverse ALL subgroup.