Development of the Venetoclax-Resistant AML Model

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains a highly aggressive hematologic malignancy, responsible for over 100,000 deaths globally each year. The approval of Venetoclax in combination with Azacitidine marked a significant advance—restoring apoptosis in tumor cells by targeting BCL-2. However, long-term clinical benefit is often limited by the emergence of drug resistance.

To address this challenge, WuXi Biology has established two AML tumor models resistant to Venetoclax. At AACR 2026, our scientists presented a poster showing that both models demonstrate robust resistance in vitro and in vivo—not only to Venetoclax alone but also to the standard combination therapy with Azacitidine. These models provide a powerful platform for investigating resistance mechanisms and supporting the development of next-generation AML therapies.