Transcription of the AML1/ETO chimera is guided by the P2 promoter of the AML1 gene in the Kasumi-1 cell line

Chromosomal translocation t (8;21)(q22;22) is one of the most frequent cytogenetic abnormalities found in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). It generates the AML1/ETO fusion gene, which itself supports human haematopoietic stem cell self-renewal. However, the mechanism guiding transcription of this chimeric gene remains unclear. In our work, we attempted to shed light on this essential issue. We investigated the promoter from which transcription of the AML1/ETO gene is initiated and defined the three-dimensional structure of the whole rearranged locus.

► Transcription of chimeric AML1/ETO gene is guided by AML1 gene promoter P2.
► Transcription of the non-rearranged AML1 gene is controlled mostly by the P1 promoter.
► Chimeric AML1/ETO gene is expressed without forming a chromatin hub.