Detection of PML/RARα Fusion Gene in Bone Marrow of Patients with Functionalized Graphene Oxide

Background: Current diagnostic methods of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) have some inevitable shortcomings; therefore, further studies are needed to develop more effective diagnostic methods. We used functionalized graphene oxide (GO) to detect the promyelocytic leukemia/retinoic acid receptor, alpha fusion gene (PML/RAR alpha fusion gene) in bone marrow of APL patients. This method was more convenient and time-saving, and we can obtain the detection results in 1 hour. Methods: Our group consists of 36 cases, among them are 16 cases which are PML-RAR alpha positive, 20 cases which are PML-RAR alpha negative. Firstly, samples were fixed, drilled, and incubated with antibody CD45. Secondly, GO, fluorescent probes, and buffer liquid were added. One hour later, samples were washed with PBS (1 x) buffer, centrifuged, and fluorescent signals were detected with flow cytometry. Results: Using functional GO to carry the fluorescent probe we ascertained whether bone marrow samples contain the L type PML/RAR alpha fusion gene. Using the probe, only cells which contain L type PML/RAR alpha fusion gene will have fluorescent signals compared to no signals (p < 0.05). The GO detection method was accurate and has clinical diagnostic values (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The GO detection method has the advantages of accurate, time-saving, energy-saving simple operation, and no pollution.