Researchers found that blocking a complement protein C5 reduces placental blood vessel growth limitations, allowing for improved fetal survival and growth. The study provides hope for preventing adverse birth outcomes worldwide.
Researchers discovered that genetic mutations are only one piece of the puzzle, and biological factors and cell behavior contribute to tumour growth and therapy failure. The team found that some cancer cells were responsible for keeping cancer growing, while others were transient and stopped within days.
A Canadian research team led by Dr. Michael Hill has successfully conducted the world's first clinical trial to protect the brain from stroke damage using a neuroprotectant drug, NA-1. The trial showed promising results, reducing brain damage and improving neurological outcomes in patients who underwent endovascular aneurysm repair.
Researchers identify a causal link between the oncometabolite metabolite2-hydroxyglutarate and the onset of acute myeloid leukemia. The study demonstrates how a metabolite can cause cancer, setting the stage for developing inhibitors to block the mutation.
A new computer-based algorithm developed at the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences calculates each patient's individual risk of death, improving clinical decision-making and hospital admissions. The algorithm can help reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and deaths among heart failure patients.
Scientists at the Toronto General Hospital Research Institute showed that an experimental bariatric surgery can lower blood sugar levels in non-obese rats with type 1 diabetes. The study demonstrated that duodenal-jejunal bypass surgery activates novel nutrient-sensing signals in the jejunum, rapidly lowering blood sugar levels.
A recent study has found that low oxygen levels in tumors can predict cancer recurrence in men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer. The research, led by radiation oncologists at the Princess Margaret Hospital, suggests that these patients are more likely to develop cancer recurrence within a few years of completing treatment.
A new drug has been developed by a Canadian scientist that protects the brain against damaging effects of a stroke, preventing brain cell death and preserving brain function. The study used cynomolgus macaques as an ideal model for humans and showed remarkable recoveries in several scenarios.
A three-year clinical trial shows dutasteride delays prostate cancer disease progression by 38% compared to placebo, while also reducing anxiety. The study suggests a viable treatment option for men with low-risk disease, offering a safer alternative to aggressive local treatment.
A clinical trial led by Drs. Amit Oza and Timothy Perren found that treating ovarian cancer with bevacizumab (
Researchers have identified a connection between the enzyme Tankyrase and the rare disease cherubism, which is linked to two common types of blood cancer. This discovery opens up new therapeutic approaches using existing inhibitors.
A new study shows that comparing a new biopsy of recurrent breast cancer with the original biopsy can dictate a change in treatment. The results suggest that patients may benefit from asking their physician if a second biopsy is needed to confirm their treatment therapy.
Researchers at Princess Margaret Cancer Program have identified a promising approach to treating leukemia using the antibiotic tigecycline. By cutting off energy production in leukemia stem cells, the drug can selectively destroy these cancerous cells while sparing healthy ones.
Men with locally advanced or high-risk prostate cancer who receive combined radiation and hormone therapy live longer and are less likely to die from their disease. The treatment improved overall survival by 23% and disease-specific survival by 43% compared to hormone therapy alone.
Researchers have found that acute myeloid leukemia (AML) contains rare cancer stem cells (LSCs) with unique properties that can predict clinical outcome. The LSC signature can identify patients who may benefit from more aggressive therapy, enabling personalized treatment approaches.
Researchers isolate a single human blood stem cell capable of regenerating the entire blood system, offering a breakthrough for treating cancer and other diseases. The discovery enables the harnessing of these life-producing cells to treat patients more effectively.
Researchers at the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre have identified a protein called PINK1 as a potential trigger for heart failure. The absence of this protein causes heart cells to produce less energy, leading to cell death and hypertrophy.
Researchers discovered a new way breast cancer cells adapt to starvation conditions by turning to fatty acids for energy. This adaptation highlights the resilience of cancer cells and could lead to targeted therapies that block their ability to survive.
Researchers discovered that breast cancer cells can thrive under starvation conditions by using fatty acids as an alternative energy source. The protein CPT1C plays a key role in this adaptation, and its expression is increased under conditions of metabolic stress.
Researchers observed a 5.1% increase in brain tissue thickness after brain bypass surgery, reversing loss and improving neurocognitive function in patients with impaired blood flow. The study offers hope for treating chronic cerebrovascular disease and its associated neurocognitive impairment.
The Toronto XVIVO System successfully treated and improved the function of high-risk donor lungs, allowing them to be safely transplanted. This technique could significantly expand the donor organ pool and improve outcomes after transplantation.
Researchers have created an organic nanoparticle that uses sound and heat to target tumors, offering a promising new approach to cancer treatment. The nanoparticle's ability to absorb light and accumulate in tumors makes it ideal for photothermal therapy.
Researchers discovered that targeting cancer-related pathways can treat congenital heart disease, with one drug reversing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in mouse models. Two drugs, an immunosuppressant and anti-cancer agent, were found to be effective in preventing and reversing the condition.
A study by researchers at the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre found that cardiac rehabilitation programs can increase patient referrals by 40% and reduce mortality rates by approximately 25%. The program offers a comprehensive approach to health, combining medical treatments and lifestyle modification.
Cancer researchers at Princess Margaret Hospital discovered targeting the enzyme UROD can sensitize diseased tissue to radiation and chemotherapy, reducing side effects. Lower UROD levels before treatment are associated with improved clinical outcomes.
Researchers found that leukemia cells composed of multiple families of genetically distinct cells exist, leading to a re-evaluation of cancer progression and treatment strategies. The study's findings have positive implications for tailoring therapies to individual patients.
A global effort combines technologies and expertise from Canada and India to develop new classes of antimalarial drugs, targeting three key malaria targets. The program also harnesses novel technologies for slow-release medication delivery, potentially leading to a 'one pill cure' and reducing drug resistance.
A genetic signature has been identified that can help doctors determine which patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer are at high risk for developing disease recurrence and may benefit from chemotherapy after surgery. The study found that the 15-gene signature predicted aggressive disease in 62 patients, and those with agg...
Dr. Andres M. Lozano's phase one trial shows DBS is safe for early-stage Alzheimer's patients, with half showing improved memory capacity. The study suggests a potential treatment approach to extend quality of life for those with the disease.
Physicians in Northern Ontario communities can now access specialized UHN pathologists for fast and accurate diagnosis, saving time and improving patient care. The new telepathology system enables instant transmission of digital images of pathology samples, reducing travel times from hours to minutes.
Researchers found that adding a continuous blood sugar sensor to an insulin pump improved blood sugar control, with significant decreases in A1c levels and no increase in severe hypoglycemia. The study's findings suggest that this technology can help patients of all ages manage their diabetes effectively.
A population-based study of 2,071 Hodgkin lymphoma survivors over 15 years found that many did not receive recommended cancer screening tests. Despite frequent contact with doctors and primary care providers, survivors often lacked screenings for other cancers, including colorectal, breast, and cervical cancer.
Researchers at PMH discovered that progesterone alters breast stem cells, a finding with significant implications for breast cancer risk. The study shows how hormones affect breast stem cells during the reproductive cycle, providing a new pathway to understanding cell growth leading to breast cancer.
Researchers from Ontario Cancer Institute and US scientists have discovered a compound that blocks protein BCL6, a cancer-causing culprit in about half of all non-Hodgkins lymphoma cases. This breakthrough accelerates developing targeted drugs to fight the most common form of non-Hodgkins lymphoma.
A study found that Ontario's universal flu vaccine campaign reduces influenza illness attack rates, morbidity, and mortality at a reasonable cost to taxpayers. The campaign prevented an estimated 34,541 cases, 111 deaths, and $7.8 million in healthcare costs per season.
A study analyzing hospitalized and outpatient patients found high levels of interleukin 17 in severe H1N1 cases, while low levels were seen in mild cases. The molecule's role in regulating white blood cells may hold the key to reducing inflammation and speeding up recovery.
Researchers at PMH found that HPV16-positive patients had better survival rates and could be treated with radiation alone. This discovery has implications for personalized medicine, enabling successful treatment without chemotherapy.
Researchers successfully used gene therapy to repair injured human donor lungs, making them suitable for transplantation. The technique improves lung function and reduces inflammation, offering a promising approach to increase organ availability and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers at Princess Margaret Hospital map a high-risk group for aggressive, 'hidden' prostate cancer, utilizing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to reveal tumors on the top of the prostate. The study identifies men with elevated PSA levels who benefit from MRI-guided biopsies.
A study of 1,239 patients found that night home hem dialysis can extend life expectancy similar to a kidney transplant from deceased donors. The treatment allows patients to live longer and maintain independence. Night home hemodialysis may be suitable for high-risk patients or those waiting for a transplant.
A novel function of a gut hormone was discovered that can potentially lower glucose levels in diabetes by activating specific receptors. The study found that CCK peptide hormone rapidly lowers blood glucose by triggering a signal to the brain and liver.
Researchers found cardiovascular disease is increasing in adults under 50 and those of lower socioeconomic status in Canada. Untreated cardiovascular disease can lead to heart failure, coronary artery disease, and death, making it the most common cause of hospitalization in North America.
Researchers have developed a new leukemia therapy targeting cancer stem cells that drive acute myeloid leukemia (AML) growth. The antibody therapy, which specifically targets the CD123 protein, has shown promising results in laboratory models and clinical trials.
A mother-daughter study found that breast water percentage in younger women is linked to increased breast cancer risk in middle age and older. The research suggests using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for early detection could aid in prevention methods.
Researchers have discovered a way to trigger an improved immune response to cancer using a combination of interleukin-7 and a viral vaccine. The new approach shows promise in treating cancer, potentially sparing patients from toxic therapies.
A recent study published in Annals of Oncology found that a biopsy of suspected recurrent breast cancer can lead to significant changes in treatment. In some cases, the biopsy showed that the woman did not have an advanced cancer, but a benign condition.
A pilot study involving 11 operating rooms found that using a Surgical Patient Safety Checklist significantly reduced major complications and inpatient deaths. The checklist improved communication among team members during surgery and increased the consistency of proven standards of surgical care.