| abstract |
Primitive or progenitor cells of hematologic cancer have been implicated in the early and onset of leukemia and malignant lymphoproliferative disorders, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) . The interleukin-3 receptor α-chain (IL-3α to CD123) is strongly expressed in hematologic cancer precursor cells, but is not substantially detected in normal bone marrow cells. The present invention provides a method of damaging progenitor cells of hematological cancers (eg, leukemia and lymphoma) by selectively targeting cells expressing CD123. These methods are useful for detecting and treating leukemia and malignant lymphoproliferative disorders. In addition, useful compounds that selectively bind to CD123 and damage hematologic cancer progenitor cells are provided. These compounds can include cytotoxic moieties such as, for example, radioisotopes, chemotherapeutic agents, and the like. |