FMS-like Tyrosine Kinase 3

FLT3 (FMS-like Tyrosine Kinase 3)

FLT3 is a receptor tyrosine kinase that plays a key role in hematopoiesis (blood cell development). In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), mutations in FLT3 lead to uncontrolled cell growth and poor prognosis.

Key Mutations in AML:

• FLT3-ITD (Internal Tandem Duplication)

  • Frequency: ~30% of AML cases.
  • Effect: Constitutive activation → aggressive leukemia.
  • Prognosis: High relapse risk, worse survival.
• FLT3-TKD (Tyrosine Kinase Domain mutation, e.g., D835Y)
  • Frequency: ~7% of AML.
  • Effect: Altered kinase activity → drug resistance.

Therapeutic Target: FLT3 inhibitors (e.g., midostaurin, gilteritinib) block signaling and improve outcomes.

Clinical Impact: Screening for FLT3 mutations is mandatory in AML (guides risk stratification and therapy).