A new research perspective was published in Oncotarget's Volume 15 on January 16, 2024, entitled, “Bone marrow adipocytes provide early signs for progression from MGUS to multiple myeloma.” 

Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a type of blood cancer where abnormal plasma cells grow in the bone marrow.  Before myeloma develops, there's a stage called Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS), with a low risk of turning into myeloma each year. Detecting MGUS patients at high risk of myeloma early on could improve treatment and quality of life. 

Adipocytes are commonly found in the bone marrow and in the body because their function is to store fat. they can expand or collapse. The adipocytes in the bone marrow are special because they can change back to blood cell-producing cells when needed due to a lack of blood cells or overproduction.  

Researchers from various Danish institutions studied changes in bone marrow fat tissue (BMAT) as a potential early sign of MGUS turning into myeloma. They used AI technology to analyze bone marrow samples from MGUS patients, some of whom progressed to multiple myeloma within 10 years.

Key Findings

• While overall fat tissue in the bone marrow didn't differ between groups, the density of a specific type of fat cell called bone marrow adipocytes (BMAd) was lower in MGUS patients who developed multiple myeloma.
•  The size and shape of bone marrow adipocytes were different between the two groups. MGUS patients who progressed to multiple myeloma showed larger and rounder BMAd compared to those who didn't progress.

These changes in bone marrow fat tissue could act as early warning signs for MGUS progressing to multiple myeloma, allowing for timely interventions and personalized treatment plans. The AI-based analysis used in this study is both cost-effective and quick, making it feasible for clinical use.

AI Can Accelerate Research! 

Understanding how bone marrow fat tissue changes could be crucial in identifying MGUS patients at risk of developing MM. This early detection could lead to better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life for patients. The research highlights AI technology's potential to revolutionize diagnosing and managing multiple myeloma.

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