The present invention relates to methods and kits for detecting several
polynucleotide sequence found to be indicative of a poor prognosis of
B-CLL. All the polynucleotides are transcribed from a region on human
chromosome 12p21-22. Most of the polynucleotides do not encode larger
polypeptides, but may encode small peptides, they may function as RNAs.
Four polynucleotides encode a novel protein, which in one preferred
embodiment can be used as a cytokine, preferably as an interleulkin.
Furthermore the invention relates to methods and compositions for
treating B-CLL in particular poor prognosis B-CLL.