MYD88 mutations in clonal hematopoiesis promote inflammation and hematopoietic stem cell expansion

Abstract

Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) is characterized by expansion of mutant hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) and an increased risk of chronic diseases and cancers. While mutations in DNMT3A , TET2 , and ASXL1 are common in CHIP, the contribution of less frequent gene mutations is not well understood. Here, we report MYD88 mutations, including lymphoma-associated and novel variants in blood cells of the general population and newly diagnosed solid cancer patients. MYD88 CHIP mutations in HSPCs activate NF-κB, indicating a gain-of-function activity. Modeling MYD88 CHIP in mice, Myd88 ^L252P (equivalent of human L265P) expression resulted in a competitive fitness advantage of HSPCs. Myd88 ^L252P HSPCs exhibit a myeloid cell bias and inflammation, leading to hematologic disease. Single-cell RNA sequencing indicated that Myd88 ^L252P expands distinct hematopoietic and immune cell clusters and activates immune-related pathways in HSPCs. An IRAK1/4 inhibitor suppressed MYD88-dependent NF-κB activation and reversed Myd88 ^L252P cell expansion. Overall, MYD88 mutations contribute to CHIP by inducing innate immune pathways in HSPCs and inflammatory disease.