BCR::ABL1 Minor Quantification (Pilot - Not Accredited)

Please note this programme is in preparation for UKAS (ISO 17043) accreditation.

BCR::ABL1 rearrangements at the minor breakpoint cluster region (m-BCR), leading to production of the p190 fusion protein, are most frequently associated with Ph-positive Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia (ALL) and a small subset of Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML) patients. Quantification of minor BCR::ABL1 transcript levels can be utilised to monitor patient response to treatment and disease recurrence.

Participants are provided with lyophilised cell line material for quantitative analysis of the BCR::ABL1 minor transcript. Participants are asked to submit quantitative results as % BCR::ABL1/control gene together with details of their methodology. Instructions for the storage, reconstitution and use of the lyophilised samples are included with each sample send-out. Two distributions are issued per annum, with each send-out consisting of two samples. This is expected to increase to 3 send-outs per annum for the year 2022/23 onwards.

Fusion Gene Nomenclature - Latest Update 

Following the recent publication of the HUGO Gene Nomenclature committee (HGNC) consensus statement regarding fusion gene nomenclature (Bruford et al. 2021), UK NEQAS LI are working to implement use of the double colon (::) for the description of fusion genes (e.g. BCR::ABL1). Historical nomenclature (e.g. BCR-ABL1) may persist in some areas of our website and documentation for an interim period due to IT constraints.

Bruford EA, et al. HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee (HGNC) recommendations for the designation of gene fusions. Leukemia. 2021 

No activities in relation to this EQA programme are subcontracted.

To register for this programme, please click here.