What is the role of the microenvironment in MDS?

Abstract

Treating myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) remains challenging. Hematopoiesis occurs within a heterogeneous, complex and dynamic microenvironment, and a multiplicity of mutations in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) lead to MDS. But is there a role for the microenvironment? Here we review experimental and conceptual arguments that support a role for the microenvironment, provide evidence for the disruption of the microenvironment in MDS, and explore microenvironmental signals that may provide a targetable and conserved vulnerability in MDS that transcend genetic heterogeneity.

Keywords: BMME; Bone abnormalities; Bone marrow microenvironment; HSC; HSPC); Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell; Hematopoietic stem cells; MDS; Microenvironment; Myelodysplastic syndromes; Osteoblastic lineage.