A Singapore team developed a machine-learning tool that accurately predicts liver cancer recurrence after surgery, outperforming the TNM staging system. The tool identifies two biologically distinct patterns of recurrence, enabling personalized approaches to risk prediction and targeted therapies.
A new approach to spinal surgery is gaining traction, with more than 200 surgeries performed under light sedation using local and spinal anaesthesia. This shift aims to reduce risks and speed up recovery for patients, especially the elderly and those with multiple health conditions.
A global, multicentre phase III trial demonstrates the potential of Dato-DXd as an effective new treatment option for triple-negative breast cancer. The novel antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) nearly doubles overall survival and improves progression-free survival in patients with untreated, advanced TNBC.
Researchers have uncovered how BAP1 functions at the molecular level and present a novel therapeutic strategy to slow cancer progression. BAP1's role in DNA repair pathways and its potential as a biomarker for personalized treatment are also explored.
Researchers found RSV to be of comparable severity to influenza and COVID-19, with higher death rates and intensive care admissions. Long-term cardiovascular and neurological complications were also observed up to 300 days post-hospitalisation.
Researchers found that magnetic mitohormesis, a non-invasive treatment, can activate metabolic pathways triggered by exercise, improving glucose control without physical strain. Patients with excess belly fat experienced significant improvements in blood glucose control and HbA1c levels.
The Centre of Excellence for robotic-assisted surgery will serve as a primary training destination for surgeons across Southeast Asia, hosting comprehensive training programmes and regional preceptorship sessions. The collaboration aims to improve surgical standards in the region by sharing knowledge and best practices.
A landmark study found that the tumour immune microenvironment plays a critical role in the progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, paving the way for precision oncology approaches. The study discovered distinct molecular differences between NPC subtypes, which influence disease progression and treatment responsiveness.
The collaboration aims to co-develop new treatment paradigms and accelerate innovation in cardiac care, with a focus on Asian populations. The partnership will create opportunities for breakthrough research, knowledge exchange, and training for healthcare professionals.
The National Heart Centre Singapore is launching a nationwide AI initiative to reduce hours of specialist analysis for cardiac scans from minutes, aiding early detection and prediction of coronary artery disease. The SENSE project will apply advanced machine learning technology to interpret cardiac imaging scans.
A new combination therapy using cemiplimab and isatuximab has shown promising results in a phase 2 clinical trial for extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, with 51% of patients achieving complete response. The study validated genomic biomarkers and a prognostic model developed by the National Cancer Centre Singapore, offering potential for mo...
The ASCOLT trial found that aspirin does not statistically improve disease-free survival for all patients but demonstrates a consistent trend of improving overall and disease-free survival. Aspirin taken for up to 3 years is efficacious in patients with PIK3CA mutation, reducing recurrence by over 50%.
The BiliSG app uses machine learning to analyze skin color and predict bilirubin levels in newborns, offering a convenient alternative to traditional testing methods. With 100% sensitivity, the app has shown promising results in monitoring neonatal jaundice and reducing the risk of brain damage.
The VANCE trial demonstrates that Singapore has the expertise and capabilities to run large-scale global cell therapy trials. The study shows promising results for patients with recurrent or metastatic NPC treated with EBV-CTL therapy, with median survival rates of up to 29.9 months.
A new study has found that using a higher dosage of radioembolisation treatment with yttrium-90 microspheres can improve overall survival outcomes for liver cancer patients. Patients who received this elevated dose had significantly better results, with some experiencing prolonged survival and even curative treatments.
Researchers from National Cancer Centre Singapore have successfully used exosomes to target squamous cell cancer tumours resistant to EGFR-TKIs. The study found that exosomes carrying a specific protein can increase sensitivity to TKIs in both lab and mouse models, providing new therapeutic solutions for patients with poor prognosis.
Researchers identified genes associated with a thinner cortex and smaller cerebellum, which can lead to uncontrollable shaking of hands. The study also found that faulty protein disposal affects cell function and disrupts neural pathways, making it difficult to treat the condition.
A KKH study found that exclusively breastfed women with high body mass index (BMI) lost more weight than those with a healthy BMI pre-pregnancy, with an average weight loss of 200 grammes. Women who practiced exclusive breastfeeding retained less postnatal weight compared to mixed feeding or formula feeding.
Researchers from Singapore General Hospital and A*STAR's Genome Institute of Singapore have discovered a new Candida auris clade, bringing the total to six. The fungus is highly transmissible and affects patients with severe underlying medical conditions.
A recent study published in Journal of Hepatology found that over 40% of liver cancer samples harbor more than one molecular subtype, leading to a
A large-scale study of 572 Asian families with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations found increased breast cancer risk over time, with highest incidence at age 55. The study provides a new framework for estimating cancer risks in Asian carriers, supporting tailored clinical management approaches.
A recent study by SGH and partners found that about 60% of nurses with less than two years' experience are uncomfortable with performing procedures like responding to critical emergencies. The study highlights the need for more training to enable nurses to transit smoothly into the workforce.
Researchers from SGH and NNI found side-to-side differences in the corticoreticular pathway of patients with AIS, which may lead to better diagnosis and treatment options. The study's findings suggest that scoliosis is fundamentally related to brain and spinal cord interactions.
A recent study discovered a causal link between oncofoetal ecosystems and liver cancer recurrence, highlighting their potential as biomarkers for treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The research found that oncofoetal reprogramming contributes to EMT, tumour cell proliferation, and response to immunotherapy.
Researchers have effectively targeted three distinct groups of cholangiocarcinoma, a lethal disease caused by liver fluke parasite or herbal carcinogen exposure. Experimental models show that specific treatments targeting these pathways can slow cancer growth and improve prognosis for CCA patients
Two COVID-19 studies on Singapore mothers and children found vaccination during pregnancy reduces newborn infection risk by up to 44.4%. Vaccination also showed potential protection against Long COVID in children under 18, with males more likely to experience symptoms.
A clinical trial shows that a combination of atezolizumab and bevacizumab can reduce cancer recurrence in liver cancer patients by one-third after curative-intent resection or ablation. The therapy has improved recurrence-free survival rates compared to active surveillance, offering new hope for these patients.
A new study by the National Neuroscience Institute suggests that drinking coffee and tea containing caffeine can significantly reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease in Asians who carry specific genetic variants. The study found that those who consumed higher amounts of caffeine had lower risks, even at moderate doses.
Scientists have developed a platform to enhance the innate ability of white blood cells from umbilical cord blood to treat various types of solid and blood cancers. Pre-clinical studies showed that these cells, known as gamma delta T-cells (GDT), possess antiviral and antitumour properties.
A Singapore study found that COVID-19 vaccination remained effective against Omicron BA.4/BA.5 and XBB infections in children and adolescents. Vaccination before the first infection provided the highest immunity, with protection levels reaching up to 85.3%.
Researchers have found that dual immunotherapy, combining PD-1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors, is effective in treating recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). The treatment showed a response rate of 38% and improved overall survival in patients with low pre-treatment plasma EBV DNA levels.
Using non-fungible tokens (NFTs) as a potential data management solution can bridge the gap in privacy-preserving solutions, allowing patients to own their health data and share it securely. This empowers them to engage in their health journey more proactively, resulting in better healthcare outcomes.
The National Cancer Centre Singapore has strengthened its position as a leader in shaping local and international clinical trials targeted at improving outcomes for Asian cancers. A pivotal phase III trial co-chaired by a NCCS clinician scientist delivered positive results, increasing recurrence-free survival of patients with hepatocel...
Research discovers how cancer cells evade immune system detection and metastasize in the body. Pre-metastatic cells and exhausted CD8+ cells are identified as key players in this process. The study explores ways to target these pathways and activate immune responses to block metastasis.
Researchers have discovered that a protein called CXCL5 may hold the key to treating systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), an incurable autoimmune disease. By restoring balance of this protein in the blood, patients may experience improved survival rates and reduced inflammation.
Researchers identified a compound that reverses damage to brain cells caused by Parkinson's disease and breaks a self-sustaining molecular loop between LRRK2 and AICD. The potential drug itanapraced has passed safety tests and could improve quality of life for those afflicted with PD and Alzheimer's disease.
A Singapore research team has validated a cancer diagnostic assay designed with Asian-centric biomarkers, showing high precision and sensitivity in measuring four major classes of biomarkers. The assay's performance was validated with clinical specimens, indicating its promise for reliable deployment in a clinical setting.
A recent study by NHCS researchers found that myocardial fibrosis is associated with worse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with hypertension. The study, which used cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), detected heart muscle scarring and quantified fibrosis in over 800 patients with hypertension.
A new classification system for colorectal cancer has been proposed, grouping cancers into five subtypes based on epithelial status, microsatellite status, and fibrosis. This update could inform targeted drug development efforts and improve treatment approaches for patients with different biological characteristics.
Researchers identified two novel biomarkers that predict response to immunotherapy and adverse events in liver cancer patients. The study's findings enable more effective and individualized treatment of primary liver cancer hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, with fewer side effects.
Researchers from National Cancer Centre Singapore have found a potential new strategy to treat peritoneal carcinomatosis, a metastatic form of intra-abdominal cancer. The team identified targeting ascites, excess fluid in the abdomen, as a way to remove fuel that drives cancer growth.
Researchers have described a dynamic genomic landscape of tumour heterogeneity in hepatocellular carcinoma, highlighting the need for novel strategies targeting heterogeneous tumors. The study, published in National Science Review, used multi-omic data to reveal variations in genetic and transcriptomic profiles across patients.
A Singapore clinical trial has introduced a new way to treat advanced hepatocellular carcinoma by combining nivolumab, an immunotherapy drug, with yttrium-90 resin microspheres radioembolisation. The study shows promising results in treating intermediate and advanced HCC, with an overall response rate of 30.6%.
A recent study published in PNAS found that gut microbes that metabolize tryptophan secrete indoles, which stimulate the development of new brain cells in adults. This discovery highlights the importance of lifestyle factors and diet in supporting brain health.
Lung cancer is a leading cause of death in Singapore and the world, with Asian populations exhibiting distinct genetic alterations. The World Conference on Lung Cancer Singapore presented new data on EGFR mutation and TKI-drug resistance, highlighting the need for targeted treatment approaches.
Researchers have classified angiosarcomas into three subtypes based on genomic and immune profiles, enabling personalized treatment approaches. The study suggests that checkpoint immunotherapy can be effective for clusters one and three, while tumour-promoting genes in cluster two may be explored as potential targets.
A new study reveals that patients with Parkinson's disease may have an undetected rare neurodegenerative disorder called NIID. Symptoms of NIID include dementia and poor balance. Researchers found NIID-causing mutations in those diagnosed with PD, suggesting a link between the two conditions.
A clinical trial of selpercatinib has shown promising results for patients with non-small cell lung cancer, achieving high response rates and prolonged survival. The drug specifically targets cancers driven by mutations in the gene RET, with minimal side effects.
A Singapore team identified a mutation in the PD-L1 gene as a reliable biomarker for patients with natural-killer T-cell lymphoma who are likely to respond positively to anti-PD-1 therapy. The study found an overall response rate of 47% and complete responses in 7 out of 19 patients.
A KKH-led study evaluates a novel clinical protocol to screen and triage women with threatened miscarriages, saving pregnancies and reducing progestogen use. The protocol uses a single serum progesterone test to guide clinicians in managing patients.