A phase 1 trial of a personalized cancer vaccine for patients with stage III or IV clear cell renal cell carcinoma showed a positive response in all nine patients, with no higher-grade side effects reported. The vaccine generated a successful anti-cancer immune response and kept patients cancer-free at the time of data cut-off.
A team of researchers developed an AI model called EpiBERT that can predict which genes are expressed in any type of human cell. The model accurately identified regulatory elements and their influence on gene expression across many cell types, building a 'grammar' that is generalizable and predictable.
A blood test detecting circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) can predict stage 3 colon cancer patients' risk of recurrence. Adding anti-inflammatory drug celecoxib to post-surgery treatment improves disease-free survival for those with positive ctDNA tests.
Dana-Farber investigators pinpoint the importance of cell type and tumor microenvironment in determining DLI response. Patients who responded to DLI had distinct cellular populations in their bone marrow, which may indicate 'hot' or 'cold' forms of AML.
Researchers developed a novel CD45-PET probe to detect inflammation using positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. The probe targets CD45, abundantly expressed on immune cells, revealing clear images of affected organs in disease models.
A phase 2 study found that the combination of belzutifan and cabozantinib produced a confirmed objective response rate of 70% among patients with advanced clear-cell renal cell carcinoma. The treatment was well-tolerated, with manageable serious adverse events.
The Fourth Transatlantic Exchange in Oncology Conference will focus on Radiopharmaceutical Therapy Meets Oncology, with key presentations on precision oncology and radioligand therapies. The meeting aims to facilitate the exchange of information and talents toward one goal: curing cancer.
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researchers present promising results from two studies on systemic mastocytosis: a novel drug, bezuclastinib, shows early efficacy in treating advanced SM, while a new predictive tool distinguishes between life-threatening and less aggressive forms of the disease with high accuracy
A phase 3 trial found that combining a second-generation BTK inhibitor, acalabrutinib, with a BCL-2 inhibitor, venetoclax, resulted in high progression-free survival rates and low toxicity. The treatment showed promise in treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have led three studies that provide new insights into treating acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) in various high-risk subtypes. The findings reveal that CPX-351 has a survival benefit for patients with AML-MR mutations, but may not be effective for those with TP53 or DDX41 mutations.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have developed a CRISPR-based rapid molecular diagnostic for two forms of leukemia, detecting gene fusions with 100% accuracy. The technology could improve outcomes by increasing accessibility and timeliness of diagnostic testing, particularly in resource-limited countries.
Scientists engineered E. coli bacteria to express immune-activating cytokines, which induced potent immune responses in tumors. The bacteria acted as a 'tumor GPS' for mesothelin targeting CAR NK cells, enhancing treatment efficacy. Multiple hard-to-treat tumors responded well to this approach.
Two studies found breastfeeding after breast cancer diagnosis is safe and feasible for young patients with specific genetic variations, as well as hormone receptor-positive breast cancer survivors. A third study shows a telephone-based coaching program can significantly increase physical activity in overweight patients, potentially imp...
A double-blind randomized phase 3 clinical trial found no additional benefits from high-dose vitamin D3 when added to standard chemotherapy for patients with untreated metastatic colorectal cancer. However, a potential benefit was observed for left-sided disease patients.
A drug that delivers chemotherapy directly to tumors has shown substantial and durable activity in treating brain metastases of HER2-positive breast cancer. The treatment, trastuzumab deruxtecan, has improved progression-free survival and objective response rates in patients with advanced disease.
Researchers tested tivozanib with nivolumab in patients with advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma and found no benefit from combining the two treatments. Repeat ICI therapy should be discouraged due to lack of improvement in overall survival or response rates.
A recent study by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researchers found that both doctors and patients are interested in discussing the environmental impact of healthcare decisions. The study suggests educating physicians about the environmental costs of treatment can be a first step towards addressing this issue. Patients were open to making...
Researchers found 76.5% of phase III cancer trials excluded patients with normal neutrophil counts due to Duffy-null phenotype. The trials recommended reduced doses for these patients, despite survival rates being lower in such cases.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have discovered that a specific subtype of pediatric high-grade glioma responds well to CDK4/6 inhibitors. Treatment with ribociclib slowed tumor growth and extended patient survival for 18 months, offering new hope for this devastating form of brain cancer.
A pivotal study supports belzutifan approval for patients with advanced kidney cancer, with belzutifan demonstrating a 25% lower risk of progression compared to everolimus. The HIF-2 inhibitor offers a novel therapeutic mechanism in advanced renal cell carcinoma treatment.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute investigated the role of physical forces in enhancing T cell performance. They found that applying piconewton forces can improve digital cytotoxic T lymphocytes' ability to recognize and destroy altered cells, leading to better immunotherapies.
CAR-Enhancer therapy boosts CAR T cells' activity and persistence, enabling them to remain in battle mode until all tumor cells are eliminated. The treatment also fosters a memory of cancer cells, allowing the CAR T cells to spring back into action upon recurrence.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have developed CAR memory-like NK cells targeting the mesothelin protein, demonstrating superior antitumor activity in laboratory and animal models. The new cells maintained their effectiveness even after exposure to immunosuppressive ascitic fluid.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of CAR T cell therapy reveals that infections are the main driver of non-relapse mortality in patients. The study analyzed reports from over 7,600 patients across 18 clinical trials and found that infections accounted for half of all reported non-relapse related deaths.
A clinical trial found that trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) is highly effective in preventing stage 1 HER2-positive breast cancer from recurring in patients. The treatment significantly reduced the risk of recurrence and improved patient-reported outcomes compared to chemotherapy and trastuzumab.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology has released new guidelines for radiation therapy in HPV-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), recommending optimal dosing regimens to reduce acute and late effects. Concurrent chemotherapy with cisplatin is recommended for more advanced tumors or multiple lymph nodes.
A subset of patients with stage 3 colon cancer who have PIK3CA mutations may benefit from celecoxib treatment, which improved overall survival and reduced disease-free survival rates. The study's findings suggest a potential personalized approach to additional therapy for patients with early-stage colon cancer.
A new study by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researchers found that telehealth can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with cancer care. By analyzing data from a regional cancer center, the team calculated that nationwide, cancer care utilizing telehealth and local care would generate 33.1% less greenhouse gas emiss...
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have reported encouraging results from three separate studies on treatments for central nervous system lymphoma, breast cancer, and glioblastoma. CAR T-cell therapy showed a 94% overall response rate in patients with CNS lymphoma, while an antibody-drug conjugate plus checkpoint inhibitor imp...
Researchers found disparities in LGBTQ+ patient experiences, including discomfort with disclosure and lack of partner respect. International medical graduates face unconscious bias, limited opportunities, and financial stress, affecting their engagement with healthcare systems.
A recent study published by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that nearly 200 young women who tried to conceive after breast cancer treatment were able to become pregnant and have a live birth. Egg/embryo freezing before treatment was associated with a higher live birth rate, while older participants had lower rates.
Dana-Farber researchers discovered a molecular complex called PI3Kgamma that supports the survival of certain leukemia cells. The team found that eganelisib, an existing medicine, can inhibit this complex and has shown promise in animal models and clinical trials.
The article assesses Community Outreach and Engagement initiatives at NCI-DCCs, highlighting successful programs that reduced disparities. The authors emphasize the need for sustained focus on community outreach and engagement, clinical access, and health equity to ensure everyone has access to latest scientific advances.
The PSMAfore study found that 177Lu-PSMA-617 prolonged radiographic progression-free survival and improved PSA response rate compared to a change in ARPI. Treatment with 177Lu-PSMA-617 also increased objective response rate, regardless of prior treatment.
Researchers identify a key point of vulnerability in NF-κB activation by targeting an oligosaccharyltransferase complex. This approach may lead to therapies inhibiting STT3A, trapping the complex in an inactive state and blocking inflammation and cancer.
A phase 3 trial shows that pembrolizumab significantly prolongs overall survival in high-risk kidney cancer patients. The treatment delays recurrences and helps patients live longer, with a 38% reduction in risk of death compared to placebo.
A phase 2 study by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute investigators found notable activity in pre-treated patients with a difficult-to-treat form of endometrial cancer, including six out of 16 patients experiencing tumor reduction. The combination of mirvetuximab soravtansine and pembrolizumab met its primary endpoint and showed promise for ...
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute present promising results for various cancer types, including improved treatment options for non-small cell lung cancer and enhanced heart function in cancer survivors. The studies also provide new insights into the genetic architecture of prostate cancer in sub-Saharan Africa.
A remote online genetic education program can motivate people with a family history of cancer to undergo genetic testing. In the GENERATE study, 90% of participants completed testing after receiving genetic education through an online program. The programs had no impact on anxiety or depression levels.
A phase 3 trial shows that adjuvant pembrolizumab therapy significantly prolongs overall survival in patients with clear-cell renal-cell carcinoma (ccRCC) at high risk for recurrence. The treatment reduces the risk of death by 38% compared to placebo.
A study from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that unintentional weight loss is associated with an increased risk of cancer diagnosis within the coming year. The research suggests that patients experiencing unexpected weight loss should see their doctor to consider possible causes, including cancer. Healthy weight loss can come from ...
Researchers developed a blood test, NEMO, to detect neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) and differentiate it from CRPC-adenocarcinoma. The test uses cell-free DNA methylation changes to quantify tumor burden and identify subtypes.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have discovered a novel compound that can protect against COVID-19 infection by targeting the virus's 'landing gear'. The stapled lipopeptide, which acts as a nasal spray, has shown promise in preventing infection and could potentially be used to treat or prevent COVID-19.
A new study by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researchers found that CAR-T therapy offers superior event-free and overall survival compared to salvage chemoimmunotherapy. However, the current list price of $400,000 per infusion makes cost-effectiveness a concern.
A new treatment strategy shows promise in preclinical models of advanced prostate cancer with RB1 gene loss or neuroendocrine features. Decitabine and B7-H3 targeted therapy have been shown to slow tumor growth and improve efficacy when combined.
Bioethics researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute warn that patient-facing AI can depersonalize care and erode relationships between patients and caregivers. The authors advocate for principles such as human dignity, patient autonomy, and regulatory oversight to ensure AI-driven healthcare is ethically sound and equitable.
A new drug, cabozantinib, has shown positive results in a clinical trial involving patients with advanced neuroendocrine tumors. The study found that patients treated with cabozantinib survived significantly longer without their disease worsening compared to those who received a placebo. This novel treatment strategy targets angiogenes...
A phase 3 clinical trial found belzutifan significantly reduces the risk of progression in patients with metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma who had previously treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors and anti-angiogenic therapies. The drug demonstrated improved progression-free survival, higher overall response rates, and redu...
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute presents several studies on novel treatments, combination therapies, and personalized medicine for lung, kidney, and neuroendocrine tumors. The studies include pivotal trials on adagrasib with pembrolizumab for non-small cell lung cancer and belzutifan versus everolimus for clear cell renal cell carcinoma.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute uncover the role of disordered protein regions in controlling chromatin remodeling complexes, shedding light on their contribution to cancer development. The study highlights the importance of sequence-specific interactions within these proteins for proper gene regulation.