Scientists at TGen discovered the likely cause of severe muscle weakness in six previously undiagnosed children using state-of-the-art genetic technology. The researchers identified pathogenic variants in genes such as CACNA1S, RYR1, COL6A3, and COL6A6, providing new insights into rare myopathies.
Researchers at TGen are using zebrafish to accelerate investigations of pancreatic cancer, with the goal of finding therapeutics that can slow down and reverse tumor growth. The study is funded by the Seena Magowitz Foundation and aims to understand how pancreatic cancer invades local tissue and spreads to other organs.
A new TGen study finds targeting stroma surrounding cancer cells can improve treatments and extend patient survival in pancreatic cancer patients. High levels of stroma correlate with poor patient survival, with median survival rates ranging from 9-24 months depending on hyaluronan and collagen levels.
The 44th annual Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction raised $140,000 for TGen's colon and prostate cancer research. The event featured a '79 Cutlass sold by actress Sharon Stone, previously raising over $600,000 for TGen.
A new course of action prescribing chemotherapy based on genetic research has led to a Phoenix resident being diagnosed with no detectable tumors after Stage 4 pancreatic cancer treatment. The patient benefited from a cutting-edge clinical trial and is now part of a follow-up study testing the effectiveness of a maintenance therapy.
A groundbreaking TGen-led discovery has identified the likely genetic cause of a rare form of ovarian cancer that affects young women and girls. The study found nearly universal underpinnings for this disease, which usually presents in advanced stages and is resistant to standard chemotherapy.
TGen researchers developed a new test that leverages the unique genetic difference between men and women to track down neurological disorders in young girls. By analyzing DNA sequences, they were able to identify a previously unrecognized disorder in a pre-teen girl and provide more accurate diagnosis for families.
The study reveals the complex relationships within a model ecosystem, with implications for protecting the environment and human health. The researchers found that Microthrix parvicella, a generalist bacterium, can adapt to various living conditions and dominate the wastewater treatment plant ecosystem.
Dr. John Carpten, Deputy Director of TGen, receives AACR Distinguished Lectureship for his work on cancer health disparities in minority populations. He will deliver a keynote lecture on November 9 at the AACR conference.
The Translational Genomics Research Institute has received regulatory approval for a $5 million clinical trial study on glioblastoma. The pilot trial will test new drugs to extend GBM patient survival, while also analyzing genomic data from over 536 past cases and conducting lab tests to measure cell responses.
Researchers investigated how HIV infection affects semen bacteria and immune response, finding a link between higher viral loads and increased bacterial and cytokine levels. This discovery could lead to new ways to control the spread of HIV by targeting semen bacteria.
A TGen-led study found that Cryptococcus gattii likely originated in Brazil and is highly adaptive, warranting global public health vigilance. The research identified new genomic targets for diagnostic tests, therapeutic drugs, and preventative vaccines.
A new 'QTA' technique allows for precise treatment and progress tracking in lung cancer patients with high accuracy. The study found that nearly 90% of tumor cells can be analyzed to detect K-ras gene mutations, enabling personalized treatment.
Researchers are testing the safety and effectiveness of AG-120, a new drug designed for patients with IDH1 gene mutations, in a clinical trial at the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center Clinical Trials. The study aims to improve treatment options for patients with solid tumors, including brain tumors and gallbladder bile duct cancer.
The Phase 2B clinical trial of CRS-207 and GVAX Pancreas vaccines aims to improve treatment outcomes for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. The combination regimen shows promise in improving survival rates, with no serious treatment-related adverse side effects.
The TGen Concussion Research Fund will support a collaboration between TGen, Riddell, Barrow Neurological Institute, and Arizona State University's Sun Devil football team to find a better way to diagnose concussions on the field. This research could enable physicians to identify when a player is concussed and when they might recover.
A new drug called MM-398 has shown a significant overall survival rate in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer when given in combination with 5-flourouracil and leucovorin. The study achieved an overall survival of 6.1 months, a 1.9 month improvement over the control arm.
A study by TGen found that specific growth factor receptors, HGFR/MET and FN14, are elevated in metastatic tumors of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Suppression of these receptors reduces tumor cell invasion. These findings suggest new targets for therapy to prevent or halt the spread of this deadly cancer.
Dr. Michael Barrett of TGen received a $200,000 grant to investigate the molecular drivers of pancreatic cancer spread. The grant supports research into high-priority areas to double pancreatic cancer survival by 2020.
A groundbreaking study led by TGen has identified a genetic mutation in the SMARCA4 gene as the primary driver of small cell carcinoma of the ovary, hypercalcemic type (SCCOHT), a rare and aggressive form of ovarian cancer. This discovery holds promise for developing targeted therapies and improving diagnosis.
Researchers at TGen identified the ALK-EML4 gene fusion as the genetic driver of an aggressive type of thyroid cancer. The study's findings suggest that this fusion can be targeted with existing drug crizotinib, offering a new treatment option for patients with radioiodine-resistant aggressive papillary thyroid cancer.
A proof-of-concept study led by TGen used genomic analysis of canine tumors to identify potential new therapies for human cancers. The study successfully analyzed dog tumor samples in under 5 days, fitting within a clinical window for human medical advancements.
Dr. Daniel D. Von Hoff, a leading physician and scientist, has made significant advancements in cancer treatment with the development of multiple anticancer agents, including gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel. His work has improved patient care and survival rates for patients with stage IV pancreatic cancer.
Researchers at TGen identified the key protein Mcl-1 that enables non-small cell lung cancer tumors to resist radiation and chemotherapy. By inhibiting Mcl-1, researchers believe they can make lung cancer more responsive to standard therapies.
A TGen study has uncovered possible genetic origins of breast cancer that spreads to the brain, providing potential new methods of diagnosis and treatment. The study identified common genetic alterations linked to key mechanisms of cancer, such as cell proliferation and cell-cycle progression.
Researchers will analyze genomes of three breeds to identify genes responsible for OCD-like behaviors. The study aims to provide insights for earlier diagnoses and innovative therapeutics, potentially benefiting children with autism.
The Ben & Catherine Ivy Foundation awarded a $3 million grant to TGen, Nemucore Medical Innovations Inc., and Barrow Neurological Institute to develop targeted therapies for glioblastoma. The collaboration aims to create personalized medicine by bridging the blood-brain barrier.
Dr. Frederic Zenhausern has been inducted into the Fellows of the National Academy of Inventors for his rapid DNA processing innovations that contribute to Arizona's economic development. His work is aimed at early diagnostics of human diseases, with a focus on integrating bioassay chemistries and biomarkers.
Scientists will attempt to identify a molecular signal indicating severity of brain-injury in patients at risk for vasospasm after hemorrhagic stroke. The goal is to establish individualized care and respond rapidly to changing health conditions, allowing earlier intervention and preventing secondary injuries.
A TGen-led study reveals TWEAK-Fn14 as a key drug target for preventing cancer spread, particularly brain cancer. Four compounds inhibit the binding of TWEAK to Fn14, including L524-0366, which suppressed glioma cell migration without cytotoxic effects.
A study led by TGen found that reduced SMG1 expression may contribute to alpha-synuclein pathology in Parkinson's disease and dementia. The researchers identified SMG1 as a regulator of alpha-synuclein aggregation, suggesting potential new therapeutic targets for treatment.
A pilot study by TGen and the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center used next-generation sequencing to analyze genetic variations in nine patients with advanced cancer. The study found that this technology can reveal multiple genomic changes and identify potential therapeutic targets, which could improve treatment outcomes for these patients.
The study found that nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine led to significantly improved overall survival and progression-free survival compared to gemcitabine alone. Participants who received nab-paclitaxel also experienced a delay in tumor growth and higher survival rates, with 35% surviving over 1 year.
A TGen-led study has identified genetic loci associated with total bilirubin levels, steatosis, and mild fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The study found evidence for new genetic factors that may help identify patients at risk of developing severe forms of fatty-liver disease.
A research team identified two genes, IRE1 and XBP1, that control response to proteasome inhibitors, which are commonly used to treat multiple myeloma. The study found that these underlying progenitor cells can survive treatment and lead to disease relapse.
The CARRE Foundation has awarded a $100,000 grant to the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) for an in-depth genomic investigation into MSA. TGen's research will utilize whole genome sequencing and family-based investigations to uncover novel genetic associations with MSA.
The Translational Genomics Research Institute received a $20,000 grant from the Arizona Community Foundation to support its TGen2School program, promoting scientific literacy and preparing a better-prepared bioscience workforce. The initiative includes professional development for teachers and provision of science kits.
The APS Foundation has awarded a $20,000 grant to the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) to support its TGen2School initiative. The grant will provide science kits and instructional materials for teachers, helping to improve overall scientific literacy and prepare students for careers in STEM fields.
A pilot study by TGen and Scottsdale Healthcare shows that personalized cancer treatment based on molecular profiling improves clinical benefits, with 52% of advanced breast cancer patients experiencing disease control. The study demonstrates feasibility of personalized cancer treatment and sets the stage for a larger study.
Dr. Matt Huentelman and Dr. Glen Weiss are among the 40 Under 40 honorees recognized by the Phoenix Business Journal for their contributions to genomic research, including TGen's MindCrowd project and lung cancer studies. The recognition highlights the institute's advancements in understanding human genetics and developing new treatments.
The Seena Magowitz Foundation has donated $500,000 to support clinical trials of the drug Abraxane, which extends survival in pancreatic cancer patients. This donation represents a decade of advocacy and fundraising efforts, aiming to make a difference in the lives of pancreatic cancer patients and their families.
A study by TGen-led researchers found that male circumcision significantly shifts the bacterial community on the penis. The shift is primarily due to a decrease in oxygen-intolerant bacteria, which may help explain why circumcision offers protection against HIV.
BIND-014, a PSMA-targeted nanoparticle containing docetaxel, demonstrated anti-tumor activity in 28 patients with advanced or metastatic solid tumors. The Phase 1 trial showed encouraging signs of effectiveness, including one complete response and five patients with stable disease.
A new class of tumor-fighting drugs using RNA interference has shown promising safety and efficacy in a clinical trial. The study found that the drug acts by silencing the PLK1 gene involved in tumor growth and can be safely administered in humans, with most patients tolerating it well and some showing therapeutic benefit.
A multi-center Phase III clinical trial demonstrates that Abraxane plus gemcitabine extends survival of late-stage pancreatic cancer patients compared to standard treatment. The study showed a 59 percent increase in one-year median survival rates and a doubling of two-year survival to 9%.
A fast-growing flesh-eating fungus, Apophysomyces, killed five people after a massive tornado devastated Joplin, Missouri. The fungus, usually harmless, can cause severe infections if not treated immediately, leading to rapid tissue destruction and organ failure.
Swift Transportation has donated $15,262 to The Waylon Fund for Diabetes Research at TGen to advance biomedical research and predict patient risk factors. This donation aims to spur innovative treatments for Type 2 diabetes.
A study by TGen and US Oncology Research identified genetic mutations in 14 metastatic TNBC patients, including TP53 and ERBB4 tumor suppressor genes. The research offers potential drug targets for this aggressive form of breast cancer.
The Marilyn B. Gula Mountains of Hope Foundation raised $100,000 for groundbreaking breast cancer research at TGen through its annual 'Cookin' for a Cure at Eddie's House.' The funds will focus on primary Luminal B breast cancer, one of the most difficult-to-treat subtypes, to determine genetic variables driving this type of cancer.
Scientists will investigate connections between soil microorganisms and the carbon cycle, with potential implications for global warming. The project aims to understand how changes in soil carbon levels trigger chain reactions that convert stable carbon into atmospheric CO2.