New gene findings will help guide treatment in infant leukemia
Researchers identified partner genes that fuse with MLL, driving fatal leukemia in infants. Accurate predictions and treatments are expected based on this knowledge.
Science News for December 5, 2009
New research demonstrates advances in optimizing treatments and quality of life
A new study demonstrates advances in optimizing treatments and quality of life for patients with multiple myeloma. The research explores optimal induction therapies, advance care planning, and a potential new first-line therapy for non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Multiple myeloma patients experience high response rate with new 3-drug combination
A new three-drug combination has shown a highly effective regimen in treating newly diagnosed patients with multiple myeloma, with partial responses or better seen in all 66 patients. The treatment also resulted in encouraging complete or near-complete responses at 54 percent.
Donald Steiner named 2009 recipient of major international diabetes prize
Dr. Donald F. Steiner has made significant contributions to the understanding of insulin secretion and related disorders through his research on proinsulin and C-peptide measurement. His work has led to major improvements in therapeutic insulin development, diagnosis of pancreatic tumors, and islet transplants.
JAK2 inhibitor demonstrates effective, durable control of myelofibrosis
A JAK2 inhibitor has been shown to provide significant and durable relief for patients with myelofibrosis, a rare and debilitating bone marrow disorder. The drug has demonstrated a 33% reduction in spleen volume and improvements in quality of life, exercise capacity, and fatigue.
Mayo Clinic and collaborators find vitamin D levels associated with survival in lymphoma patients
Researchers found that vitamin D levels in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma were strongly associated with cancer progression and overall survival. Patients with deficient vitamin D levels had a 1.5-fold greater risk of disease progression.
Advances in diagnosing and treating leukemia and myeloproliferative disorders
Researchers have developed a new protocol to improve the survival of patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia and chronic myeloid leukemia, particularly in developing countries. The study found a significant improvement in early mortality and long-term outcomes, with high rates of complete remission.
Drug shows promise for T315I-mutated chronic myeloid leukemia
Researchers found that omacetaxine achieved durable responses in CML patients with the T315I mutation, who have limited treatment options. The injectable drug works by a different mechanism than current therapies and has shown promise for expanded use.
Innovative strategies improve outcomes and prevent complications of stem cell transplants
Researchers developed a new approach to prevent graft-versus-host disease and enhance immune recovery after haploidentical transplants. The study showed long-term protection from graft-versus-host disease in 25 of 26 patients, with improved immune system reconstitution.