 |
|
Innovative device to treat brain cancer shows promise in early studies
May 30, 2007New early data showed that an investigational device that specifically targets rapidly growing cancer cells with intermediate frequency electrical fields -- called Tumor-Treating Fields (TTFields) -- more than doubled the median overall survival rates in patients with recurrent glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common and aggressive type of malignant brain tumor. These survival rates observed in the data were compared to historical data. This research, which includes the results of cell culture, animal and early phase human trials, appears in the current issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).
The device, called the Novo-TTF, uses electrical fields to disrupt tumor growth by interfering with cell division of cancerous cells, causing them to stop proliferating and die off instead of dividing and growing. Healthy brain cells rarely divide and have different electrical properties than cancerous brain cells. This allows the device to target cancer cells without affecting the healthy cells.
At the time of publication, researchers found that among the 10 patients with recurring GBM treated with the Novo-TTF, the median length of time to disease progression was 26.1 weeks; progression free survival at six months was 50 percent; and median overall survival was 62.2 weeks. This is more than double the rates reported in historical data - approximately 9.5 weeks, 15.3%, and 29.3 weeks, respectively.
"The novel mechanism of action of the Novo-TTF relies on the physical properties of the cancer cells, their shape and size, rather than the chemical make-up. We believe that this distinction enables the device to stop local proliferation and metastasis of cancer, which would explain the efficacy observed in these early findings," said Dr. Elion Kirson lead author and Vice President of Research and Development, NovoCure. "Based on our preliminary research, we believe that there is a high probability that TTFields may prove to be an effective and safe approach to treating a large number of human cancers."
Edelman Public Relations
"The novel mechanism of action of the Novo-TTF relies on the physical properties of the cancer cells, their shape and size, rather than the chemical make-up. We believe that this distinction enables the device to stop local proliferation and metastasis of cancer, which would explain the efficacy observed in these early findings," said Dr. Elion Kirson lead author and Vice President of Research and Development, NovoCure. "Based on our preliminary research, we believe that there is a high probability that TTFields may prove to be an effective and safe approach to treating a large number of human cancers."
Edelman Public Relations
Brain Cancer Current Events and Brain Cancer News RSSCancer metabolism discovery uncovers new role of IDH1 gene mutation in brain cancer
Agios Pharmaceuticals today announced that its scientists have established, for the first time, that the mutated IDH1 gene has a novel enzyme activity consistent with a cancer-causing gene, or oncogene.
Magnetic nanoparticles to simultaneously diagnose, monitor and treat
Whether it's magnetic nanoparticles (mNPs) giving an army of 'therapeutically armed' white blood cells direction to invade a deadly tumour's territory, or the use of mNPs to target specific nerve channels and induce nerve-led behaviour (such as the life-dependant thumping of our hearts), mNPs have come a long way in the past decade.
Angiochem crosses BBB, shows safety, efficacy in phase 1/2 brain cancer studies
Angiochem, Inc. a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing drugs that are uniquely capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier to treat brain diseases, announced today that its lead drug candidate, ANG1005, has demonstrated a favorable safety and efficacy profile in more than 100 patients with brain cancer from two separate Phase 1 /2 clinical studies in patients with progressive gliomas, including recurrent glioblastoma, and in patients with progressive brain metastases.
Toward a nanomedicine for brain cancer
In an advance toward better treatments for the most serious form of brain cancer, scientists in Illinois are reporting development of the first nanoparticles that seek out and destroy brain cancer cells without damaging nearby healthy cells.
UM scientists pinpoint critical molecule to celiac disease, possibly other autoimmune disorders
It was nine years ago that University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers discovered that a mysterious human protein called zonulin played a critical role in celiac disease and other autoimmune disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and diabetes.
Experts warn over health check brain scans
A new study has voiced concern about the growing market for brain screening tests, which people can buy as part of a general health MOT.
Avastin dramatically improves response, survival in deadly recurrrent glioblastomas
The targeted therapy Avastin, alone and in combination with the chemotherapy drug CPT-11, significantly increased response rates, progression-free survival times and survival rates in patients with a deadly form of brain cancer that had recurred.
Computational Process Zeroes in on Top Genetic Cancer Suspects
Johns Hopkins engineers have devised innovative computer software that can sift through hundreds of genetic mutations and highlight the DNA changes that are most likely to promote cancer.
NIH study reveals new genetic culprit in deadly skin cancer
Drawing on the power of DNA sequencing, National Institutes of Health researchers have identified a new group of genetic mutations involved in the deadliest form of skin cancer, melanoma.
NIH researchers identify key factor that stimulates brain cancer cells to spread
Researchers funded by the National Institutes of Health have found that the activity of a protein in brain cells helps stimulate the spread of an aggressive brain cancer called glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).
More Brain Cancer Current Events and Brain Cancer News Articles
 |
Damn The Statistics, I Have a Life to Live!: Coping with a Brain Tumor My Personal Story by Harry Wolf (Author) June 3, 2002 was the day that changed my life forever. A 43-year-old father of three, whom in oneday went from being a successful senior manager to a man with a braintumor. I have a glioblastoma multiformegrade IV brain tumor, the most deadly and aggressive type of brain tumor. This book covers how I have dealt with lifeafter being informed that I have a tumor that only 1-2% survive for 2years. I share the experiences, thoughts,and events from my first year as a survivor. When I was first diagnosed, I searched for a book that covered thedetails of what could be expected on both a medical and personal level. I could not find, so I wrote one. I maintained a detailed journal. I cover the first surgery, an awakecraniotomy, and the subsequent head infection that led to a second... |
 |
Living with a Brain Tumor: Dr. Peter Black's Guide to Taking Control of Your Treatment by Peter Black (Author) Each year, 100,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with a brain tumor. With his new book, Dr. Peter Black fills a gap in the lay readership, providing an accessible medical resource for adult patients and their families. Dr. Black, who has operated on more than 3,000 patients with brain tumors, is uniquely qualified to discuss both clinical treatment of and research into brain tumors. This invaluable resource tells patients everything they need to know to understand and address their diagnosis, in a four-part structure: • “What is a Brain Tumor?" provides straightforward information about how brain tumors are diagnosed, the different types of tumors and how they develop, and where to go for treatment. • “Coping with Shock” addresses the emotional... |
 |
Silver Swarovski Crystals Ribbon Pin Brooch: Brain Cancer & Brain Disorder or Disability Awareness by PSDZ This Silver Ribbon Pin symbolizes the fight against: Brain Cancer & Brain Disorders or Disabilities. Dozens of sparkling, Swarovski Crystals have been hand set in this piece and skilled artisans have finished it in a glossy, Silver Enamel. A meaningful and beautiful brooch. Height: 1.75 Inch Width: .75 Inch Each of these items has been hand enameled by skilled artisans, and set with genuine, Swarovski Crystals. The pins frame is crafted from fine pewter. Our Collection adds the definitive touch to any gift-giving occasion. Also, this collection has been issued in limited editions and each piece will become a valuable keepsake to its owner, for years to come. Please see other items in this collection in our Amazon Store: PSDZ. Jewelry Boxes, Business Card Holders, Music... |
 |
Brain Cancer, Kids Light T-Shirt by CafePress |
 |
Curveball: When Life Throws You a Brain Tumor by Liz Holzemer (Author) Life seemed idyllic for thirty-two-year-old Liz Holzemer. Wife of Major League Baseball pitcher Mark Holzemer, Liz was enjoying a successful career as a journalist when an MRI revealed a baseball-size brain tumor she soon found out was called meningioma. Told with clarity and unwavering humor, this book is an inspirational and informative account of one woman’s battle for her life. It shows how she emerged from this frightening diagnosis and two brain surgeries retaining her remarkable spirit of survival and renewed sense of purpose and hope. With practical information about meningioma and brain surgery, Curveball is a manual for people who face life-altering challenges and is also proof that one need not fight such battles alone. |
 |
The NewsHour Reports on Brain Research, Treatment and Disease Starring: Betty Ann Bowser; Dr. Mickey Collins; Dr. Mark Lovell; Susan Dentzer; Dr. Michael Simberkoff; Paul Allen Also With: MacNeil / Lehrer Productions (Producer) The NewsHour reports on brain research and treatments for brain injury and disease. Included are segments featuring research on diagnosing and treating concussion; traumatic brain injury treatment of veterans; the development of a brain mapping tool; research on cell phone use and its effects on the brain and research that demonstrates the human body is able to produce new brain cells. This product is manufactured on demand using DVD-R recordable media. Amazon.com's standard return policy will apply. |
 |
Cancer Be Gone Guided imagery CD taps into the immense power of the mind to enhance comfort, healing, an optimistic attitude and positive expectations. Metaphor of "cancer as weeds in a garden that are easily managed". |
 |
Sterling Silver Gray Enamel Awareness Ribbon Charm, 7/8 inch, Diabetes, Brain Cancer by Silver Messages--Free US Shipping Sterling Silver Gray Enamel Awareness Ribbon Charm, 7/8 inch, Diabetes, Brain Cancer |
 |
Brain Cancer Awareness Ribbon Mouse Pad by MyHeritageWear.com The Brain Cancer Ribbon proudly displayed on a mouse pad. There is no better way to achieve awareness for the meaning of the Brain Cancer Ribbon than to display it on your mouse pad for everyone to see. The mouse pad measures at 9.25 x 7.75, it is machine washable, and the colors will not fade or run. Start gaining awareness today by presenting your Brain Cancer Ribbon mouse pad at work or at home. It is certain to keep your mouse rolling in style all while gaining support and awareness! |
 |
Brain Cancer, Infant/Toddler T-Shirt by CafePress |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |