What is Major Molecular Remission (MMR) in CML, and what does the latest research say about it?
Major Molecular Remission (MMR) is a key treatment milestone for people with CML. It means that the BCR-ABL gene — the abnormal gene driving CML — has been reduced to very low levels in the blood, though it may still be Show Full Answer
What is Major Molecular Remission (MMR) in CML, and what does the latest research say about it?
Major Molecular Remission (MMR) is a key treatment milestone for people with CML. It means that the BCR-ABL gene — the abnormal gene driving CML — has been reduced to very low levels in the blood, though it may still be detectable.
Reaching MMR is significant because it suggests the leukemia is well-controlled and reduces the risk of the disease progressing to a more advanced phase. Here's what research currently highlights about MMR in CML:
- Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) like imatinib are the primary treatment helping patients reach MMR
- For about 70% of people, imatinib leads to a complete cytogenetic response, meaning BCR-ABL is no longer detected at all
- The 10-year survival rate for people on imatinib is approximately 83%
- Newer, more powerful TKIs are being developed and refined to help more people reach and maintain MMR
- Some patients who sustain deep molecular remission may eventually be able to stop TKI therapy under close medical supervision — a goal called Treatment-Free Remission (TFR)
It's worth noting that certain mutations, like the T315I "gatekeeper" mutation, can cause resistance to some TKIs, which may make reaching MMR harder. Always discuss your molecular response results with your care team to understand what they mean for your specific situation.
May 13
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