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German Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)


Genetic analysis for certain childhood brain tumors soon a standard-of-care?

Researchers have developed criteria for routine genetic screening of patients with medulloblastoma, a rare and malignant tumor predominantly affecting children. This analysis of 1022 patients identified six genes frequently affected by genetic alterations, increasing cancer risk in up to 20% of the patient population.

Breast cancer therapy: All clear for the heart

A large study of breast cancer patients found that radiotherapy and chemotherapy do not significantly increase the risk of heart disease. Good risk management in hospitals and short interval screenings may offset elevated risks. The study's findings are considered positive for treatment of breast cancer.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalEuropean Heart Journal - Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy·DateApr 9, 2018

A clonal crayfish from nature as a model for tumors

The marbled crayfish, a single female ancestor of all Marmorkrebs specimens, exhibits epigenetic mechanisms that enable rapid adaptation to various environments without genetic variation. This clonal genome evolution shares similarities with tumor development, where environmental factors influence gene regulation and adaptation.

Caught in the act: Papillomaviruses promote non-melanoma skin cancer

Researchers at the German Cancer Research Center have found that papillomaviruses associated with UV light can promote the development of non-melanoma skin cancer. The viruses affect the stability of host cell DNA, leading to accumulation of UV-related damage. This link has been previously underinvestigated in human biopsies.

How blood vessels slow down and accelerate tumor growth

Researchers have found that the Tie2 receptor on pericytes plays a crucial role in regulating blood vessel growth and maturation. By breeding mice with disabled Tie2 receptors, scientists discovered that tumor blood vessels grew faster and more aggressively without this control, highlighting potential new targets for cancer therapy.

Defective intercellular connections cause hydrocephalus

Research by the German Cancer Research Center has found that defective intercellular connections in the ependyma, a cellular layer separating the brain nervous tissue from CSF, cause hydrocephalus. This leads to blockage of the aqueduct, blocking cerebrospinal fluid flow and resulting in swollen heads and brain pressure.

Antibody is effective against radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis

Researchers have developed an effective antibody against radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis, a debilitating side effect of lung cancer treatment. The antibody targets connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), reversing fibrotic transformation and improving pulmonary function in mice.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 31, 2017

Tolerant immune system increases cancer risk

Researchers found that a tolerant immune system, characterized by high levels of regulatory T cells, increases the risk of certain types of cancer. The study analyzed blood samples from EPIC participants with cancer and controls, revealing a strong link between immunotolerance and increased lung and colon cancer risks.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateOct 6, 2015