CD47 in Myelodysplastic Syndromes: A Deep Dive into Its Role and Therapeutic Implications

Background and Aim: This review focuses on Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS),
hematological disorders characterized by dysplastic changes in bone marrow cells. The aim is to explore the role of CD47, known as the "don't eat me" signal, in MDS pathophysiology, understanding its impact on immune evasion, disease progression, and its potential as a prognostic marker.
Method: A systematic literature review was conducted, searching PubMed, Medline, and relevant databases for articles on CD47 in MDS. The analysis includes studies on CD47 expression, its association with immune surveillance, and therapeutic interventions such as monoclonal antibodies and combined strategies with hypomethylating agents.
Results: The review consolidates findings, revealing CD47's crucial role in MDS. Aberrant CD47 overexpression allows immune evasion, potentially contributing to disease progression, and correlates with adverse clinical outcomes. CD47 emerges as a prognostic marker, and early-phase clinical trials on CD47 blockade, especially with monoclonal antibodies, show promising results, offering a novel avenue for MDS management.
Conclusion: In conclusion, this review underscores the pivotal role of CD47 in MDS, influencing immune evasion and disease progression. Elevated CD47 expression serves as a potential prognostic marker, and early-phase clinical trials targeting CD47 present a hopeful direction in MDS management, holding promise for improved therapeutic outcomes.