Researchers discovered a new way to trigger self-destruction of certain cancer cells by targeting specific molecules. By blocking the action of a protein called mTOR, scientists can activate apoptosis in cancer cells lacking a gene called p53, leading to cell death.
A recent St. Jude study suggests that children with a higher proportion of sickled hemoglobin may develop 'twisted' arteries in the brain, which could increase their risk of stroke later in life. Researchers believe that this increased blood flow may damage arteries and lead to a higher risk of stroke among African Americans.
St. Jude researchers successfully cloned embryos from mouse medulloblastoma cells using a reprogrammed nucleus model, demonstrating the potential for epigenetic factors to cause tumors. The study provides valuable insights into the molecular basis of cancer and may lead to new therapies.
Researchers show that SOCS3 slows macrophage activation initiated by IL-6, and discover an unexpected pathway causing fatal inflammatory responses in humans., The study adds to understanding of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in immune system cells.
A team of researchers found that the absence of a specific gene, Ink4d, causes progressive hearing loss in mice by triggering the death of sensory hair cells. This finding suggests that humans with similar genetic mutations may be more susceptible to hearing loss due to trauma.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have identified a critical role for the gene Prox1 in regulating the development of the retina, ensuring proper formation and organization of complex tissue. The study found that Prox1 directs progenitor cells to stop multiplying, resulting in a precise ratio of horizontal cells to r...
Researchers successfully integrated genes into hematopoietic stem cells to produce normal red blood cells in mice with beta-thalassemia and sickle cell disease. The technique uses a non-pathogenic AIDS virus gene to ferry DNA into the cells, selectively enriching genetically modified stem cells.
Researchers identified 124 genes whose changes in expression differed depending on the treatment regimen, providing new clues on how medications work and how cancer cells protect themselves. The study's findings will help design more rational and effective ways to use drugs for deadly childhood leukemia.
A randomized trial found that a one-to-one counseling program with personalized phone calls significantly improved patients' understanding of tobacco risks and increased their intention to abstain from smoking. The study showed long-term benefits, even a year after the intervention.
The St. Jude team successfully developed a custom-made vaccine against the H5N1 flu virus in just four weeks, thanks to a modified technique called reverse genetics. The vaccine was created by mixing genes from H5N1 with those from a common flu virus, making it safe for human use.
St. Jude researchers have gained insights into the critical role of E1 enzymes in controlling cellular functions by modifying ubiquitin-like proteins. The discovery sheds light on how cells maintain order and perform vital activities like immune responses and cell division.
The FKHR gene helps myoblasts fuse into muscles, but a deficiency contributes to muscle cancer. FKHR's dual role is regulated by different processes depending on the cell context.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that an anti-flu-virus drug can protect against pneumonia by blocking the activity of flu virus enzyme neuraminidase. This protection reduces illness and incidence of death from subsequent infection by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria.
The Arf gene's role in controlling cell growth and metabolism has been enhanced by its association with the tumor suppressor gene p53, leading to improved anti-cancer effects. By limiting ribosome production, Arf slows down cell growth, while p53 activates other genes to prevent cancer progression.
The Six3 gene plays a vital role in brain development by halting Wnt1 activity, preventing abnormal forebrain extension. In mutant mice and zebrafish, genetic material from the mouse Six3 gene restores normal forebrain development.
A newly discovered cellular process allows cells to initiate a series of events that halt the growth of damaged cells and help them survive. The activation of ATM, an enzyme that responds to DNA damage, enables cells to better respond to cancer-causing mutations and environmental toxins.
The grant will support five local projects focusing on stem cell transplantation, pneumococcal infection, combination drug therapy, gene therapy, and molecular biology of hemoglobin development. St. Jude sickle cell patients will have more opportunities for new therapies and participation in groundbreaking clinical trials.
Top researchers gathered at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital to discuss breakthroughs in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment, aiming for improved cure rates and reduced side effects. Rearrangement of the ETV6/TEL gene is associated with favorable treatment outcomes, enabling safer alternatives to radiation therapy.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that the ARF tumor suppressor interacts with the p53 gene, preventing cancer growth and development. The study identifies a single genetic locus, INK4a/ARF, which encodes two proteins regulating two key biochemical pathways.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have discovered a novel leukemia-producing transcription factor called E2A-HLF, which transforms immature lymphocytes by preventing normal destruction programs. This finding provides a potential window into understanding leukemias that result from altered survival signals.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital are developing new brain tumor treatment protocols that use 3D imaging to accurately target tumors, reducing radiation doses and side effects. The protocols involve combining lower-dose radiation with chemotherapy to increase survival rates and minimize long-term damage.
The FDA has approved the first phase of a new AIDS vaccine developed at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, which aims to trigger immune responses to multiple HIV isolates using envelope proteins. The vaccine combines 23 different envelopes representing various HIV strains and is expected to last one to two years.
A landmark study found a unique interaction between proteins produced by two brain genes, mdab1 and reelin, crucial for normal brain development. The discovery may lead to breakthroughs in cancer research and treatments for neurological disorders like schizophrenia and epilepsy.
A new influenza virus found in Hong Kong has spread directly from poultry to a boy, bypassing typical human adaptation. The virus, H5 subtype HK97, has not been shown to cause infections in humans before.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered a new protein receptor, TACI, that interacts with CAML to trigger the immune response. This finding may lead to more effective cancer treatments for leukemia and lymphoma patients.