Latexin deletion in the bone marrow niche suppresses leukemia via LIFR downregulation and immune activation

Abstract

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common adult leukemia diagnosis. Bone marrow (BM) niche significantly influences the initiation and progression of AML. However, our knowledge about the effect of leukemic niche on leukemia stem cells (LSC) and leukemogenesis is limited. In this study, we identified an extrinsic-regulatory function of latexin ( Lxn ) in leukemogenesis. Using a MLL-AF9–induced AML mouse model in WT and Lxn -KO ( Lxn –/– ) recipient mice, we found that Lxn deletion in the BM niche enhanced the survival of AML mice by suppressing LSCs and reducing blood blasts. Single-cell RNA-seq of stromal cells and cell communication analysis uncovered downregulation of the leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR) signaling pathway in the Lxn –/– niche, particularly within mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Mechanistically, reduced LIFR level in Lxn –/– MSCs upregulated Cxcl9 expression, leading to increased recruitment of CD8 T cells and enhanced cytotoxicity against leukemic cells. Combination of Lxn niche deletion and immune checkpoint inhibitor PD-1 further prolonged survival. The findings have important clinical implications, suggesting that Lxn inhibition could improve the efficacy of AML therapies by targeting the leukemia niche and enhancing immune surveillance.