New Genetic Insights Reveal Subtypes of Common Blood Cancer

A recent genetic investigation conducted by researchers at Karolinska Institutet has uncovered that follicular lymphoma (FL), a prevalent form of blood cancer, is not a homogeneous disease but rather consists of three distinct genetic subtypes. This groundbreaking research, published in Cell Reports Medicine, promises to enhance diagnostic and treatment approaches for affected patients.

Follicular lymphoma is characterized as a slow-progressing cancer impacting white blood cells. Historically, it has been treated uniformly, without differentiation among patients. However, through comprehensive analysis of tumor samples utilizing whole-genome and transcriptomic sequencing techniques, the research team identified that FL comprises three genetically unique subtypes, each exhibiting specific genetic profiles, biological characteristics, and clinical outcomes.

According to the study, these subtypes not only differ in their developmental pathways but also in their responses to treatments. This discovery suggests that tailored therapeutic strategies could significantly benefit patients by addressing the unique traits of their disease.

Dr. Weicheng Ren, a co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of these findings, noting that the identification of these subtypes enables a more personalized approach to patient care. The study utilized advanced computational methods to analyze patterns in DNA mutations, gene expression, and immune cell activity, revealing that each subtype originates from different cell types and interacts variably with surrounding tissues. Such differences could influence the disease's progression and the effectiveness of various treatment options.

As highlighted by Professor Pan-Hammarström, the research provides a clearer diagnostic framework for clinicians, allowing for more precise identification of individual patient subtypes. This new classification could facilitate the selection of appropriate therapies, potentially improving treatment outcomes and minimizing adverse effects. Furthermore, it may assist in predicting disease progression, making early intervention in high-risk cases more feasible.

Looking ahead, the research team aims to validate their findings across larger and more diverse patient populations. They also plan to delve deeper into immune-related biomarkers using single-cell sequencing methodologies, striving to develop tools that aid doctors in pinpointing high-risk patients and customizing treatments accordingly.

For additional details, refer to the original study: Weicheng Ren et al, Whole-genome sequencing reveals three follicular lymphoma subtypes with distinct cell of origin and patient outcomes, Cell Reports Medicine (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2025.102278.