IgD cross-linking induces gene expression profiling changes and enhances apoptosis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells

Gene profile and functional changes upon IgD cross-linking were evaluated in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Microarrays highlighted responsiveness to IgD in all cases, independently of clinico-biological characteristics. Stimulated samples exhibited the down-regulation of transcripts of B-cell receptor signaling and cell-adhesion at 24 h and the up-modulation of differentiation and apoptosis genes at 48 h. A significant increase in apoptosis upon ligation was also documented. Furthermore, comparison between IgD and IgM stimulation displayed a differential transcriptional/functional response.In conclusion, CLL respond to IgD displaying expression changes and cell-death enhancement, indicating the apoptosis induction via-IgD as an alternative approach for CLL management.