BCR-ABL

BCR-ABL is a genetic abnormality found in certain leukemia cells, especially chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). It results from a mistake where parts of two genes—BCR and ABL—fuse together, creating an abnormal gene that produces a continuously active protein. This protein promotes uncontrolled cell growth, leading to leukemia. Detecting BCR-ABL helps diagnose CML, and targeted medicines like tyrosine kinase inhibitors specifically block this abnormal protein, effectively controlling the disease.