XL t(14;18) IGH/MALT1 DF consists of a green-labeled probe hybridizing to the IGH gene region at 14q32.3 and an orange-labeled probe hybridizing to the MALT1 gene region at 18q21.3.

Probe maps are created in accordance with the intended purpose of the product. Solid colored bars do not necessarily indicate that the probe fully covers the indicated genomic region. Therefore, caution is advised when interpreting results generated through off-label use. Probe map details based on UCSC Genome Browser GRCh37/hg19. Map components not to scale. Further information is available on request.

MALT (mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue) lymphomas occur at diverse anatomic sites and are closely linked to several distinct chronic inflammatory disorders. Up to 50% of the MALT lymphoma cases analyzed demonstrate MALT1 rearrangements. The MALT1 gene was originally identified by its involvement in the MALT lymphoma associated translocation t(11;18)(q21;q21). This rearrangement is detected in 30% of all cases of MALT lymphoma and leads to BIRC3-MALT1 fusions. It is restricted to MALT lymphomas and has not been detected in nodal or splenic marginal zone lymphomas, diffuse large B-cell lymphomas, or other non-Hodgkin lymphomas.
Approximately 20% of MALT lymphoma cases analyzed are characterized by t(14;18)(q32;q21) leading to a IGH-MALT1 fusion. This reciprocal translocation juxtaposes MALT1 to transcriptional enhancers in the IGH locus and results in overexpression of the MALT1 gene. The distinct breakpoints on both chromosomes are precisely defined. The oncogenic potential of MALT1 is linked to its participation in the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). This important transcription factor mediates the expression of anti-apoptotic, cell survival- and proliferation-promoting genes. Furthermore, there is emerging evidence indicating an oncogenic cross-link between the above-mentioned genetic rearrangements and immunological stimulation occurring during the pathogenesis of MALT lymphoma.

Clinical Applications

• Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas (NHL)

XL t(14;18) IGH/MALT1 DF hybridized to bone marrow cells, two aberrant cells are shown. A t(14;18) translocation has occurred generating a signal pattern of two colocalization/fusion signals, one green and one orange signal.

• Streubel et al (2003) Blood 101:2335-2339
• Bacon et al (2007) J Clin Pathol 60:361-372
• Du (2017) Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 30:13-23