These observations are particularly important, as genetic abnormalities and/or indirect inactivation of the TP53 tumour suppressor pathway are the most significant predictors of poor outcome after standard chemotherapy.2, 19 Thus, from the clinical standpoint, therapeutic interventions capable of inducing apoptosis in p53‐independent fashion are particularly desired for CLL patients. This evidence concerns the gene TP53 and B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia.