This study, the largest CLL proteomics study to date, assessed protein expression in 871 CLL and MSBL patients. It integrated proteomic data with clinical data to identify strategies for improving diagnostics and therapy. Six recurrent proteomic signatures were identified as highly prognostic of survival and time to treatment. A novel signature group, characterized by hairy cell leukemia-like proteomics but poor therapy response, was discovered. Signature group membership superseded other prognostic factors and predicted response to modern and older therapies, informing optimal candidates for watch-and-wait versus early intervention, and identifying novel therapeutic targets.

Ti'ara L. Griffen, Fieke W. Hoff, Yihua Qiu, James W. Lillard Jr., Alessandra Ferrajoli, Philip Thompson, Endurance Toro, Kevin Ruiz, Jan Burger, William Wierda, Steven M. Kornblau