For the first time, researchers have sequenced the full multiple myeloma genome.

Sequencing the full multiple myeloma genome enables scientists to discover which genes are present in a myeloma tumor, as well as to determine which genetic regions may harbor mutations. This knowledge will help researchers better understand both myeloma’s development -- how normal plasma cells in the bone marrow transform into cancerous ones – and new, tailored targets for attacking the disease.

This genetic reconstruction project by the Multiple Myeloma Genomics Initiative, which is spearheaded by the Multiple Myeloma Research Consortium (MMRC), included every gene and DNA segment from a multiple myeloma tumor. The study’s results will help identify new treatment targets and pave the way for more personalized myeloma therapies.

Louise M. Perkins, Ph.D., the Chief Scientific Officer of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF), a sister organization of the MMRC, predicts, “Groundbreaking data from the MMRC Multiple Myeloma Genetics Initiative will play an important role in developing better treatment options for individuals who derive little benefit from existing therapies and may ultimately help provide multiple myeloma patients with the most appropriate treatment for his or her disease.”

Analysis of the sequenced genome, which represents the most critical aspect of the research, is now underway with the help of the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. In addition, researchers are sequencing additional genomes, and the MMRC Multiple Myeloma Genomics Initiative recently completed two other genetic profiling studies on tumors from over 250 myeloma patients.

Through the Multiple Myeloma Genomics Portal, the world’s only data repository devoted solely to multiple myeloma, results of the Initiative’s research are freely accessible and updated in near-real time. The complete myeloma genomes will be uploaded and available to researchers within the next several months.

“Through its extraordinary generosity and vision, the MMRF [and MMRC] is enabling the important work of whole genome sequencing for multiple myeloma, and making the data publicly accessible,” stated Todd R. Golub, MD, Director of the Broad Institute’s Cancer Program and co-principal investigator of the Multiple Myeloma Genomics Initiative. “This is a remarkable beginning.”

For more information, see the MMRF press release announcing the full genome sequencing completion. Research results from the Multiple Myeloma Genomics Initiative may be accessed through the Multiple Myeloma Genomics Portal.