Analysing single cells from human B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemias, this study maps the genetic heterogeneity of cells within a given tumour sample, the evolutionary path by which different subclones have emerged, and ongoing dynamic changes associated with relapse. Leukaemia-propagating cells that transplant the disease mirror the genetic variegation of the bulk tumours, providing insights into the heterogeneity of these functional subpopulations at the genetic level. This has implications for therapeutic approaches targeting the tumours and specifically leukaemia-propagating cells.
- Kristina Anderson
- Christoph Lutz
- Mel Greaves
