Research on the drugs used to treat cancer and how well they work. Covers immunotherapy, chemotherapy-free regimens, biosimilars, targeted drugs, and treatment costs.
Researchers at the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute have reported promising results from a Phase II clinical trial of pembrolizumab, a PD-1 antibody, in men with metastatic prostate cancer. Three out of ten participants showed significant responses to treatment, including rapid decreases in PSA levels and tumor shrinkage.
A new study has found that intensive care units provide adequate communication and family support for families of chronically ill patients, rendering palliative care unnecessary. The study revealed no difference in patient outcomes when families received additional support from palliative care specialists versus standard ICU care.
Researchers have identified a potential target for treating insulin resistance by inhibiting the protein PKD1, which limits AMPK's activity. This discovery may lead to effective treatments for obese and diabetic individuals, including lifestyle interventions such as exercise and diet modifications.
A Mayo Clinic study reveals a drug combination of TLR agonists and cyclophosphamide to effectively treat advanced and metastatic cancers in mice. The treatment promotes the destruction of cancer cells and activates immune responses without toxicity.
The new scientific statement highlights the potential of commonly used medications and nutritional supplements to cause or worsen heart failure. Healthcare providers should inform patients about all prescription and over-the-counter medications they may be taking, as well as nutritional supplements, to prevent drug-drug interactions.
A study examining cancer center advertising spending found that 20 centers accounted for 86% of the total spending. The largest advertisers were Cancer Treatment Centers of America and MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Researchers from UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center argue that existing treatments are more effective than e-cigarettes in helping people quit smoking. They also highlight concerns about professional ethics and the need for stronger regulatory oversight.
A new analysis shows that US cancer centers increased their advertising spending by over 300% between 2005 and 2014, with for-profit organizations accounting for most of the spending. The bulk of the spending was concentrated in television ads, print media, and internet display advertisements.
Researchers created a comprehensive map of genetic and epigenetic lesions in human tumors, predicting responses to various cancer drugs. The study integrated 1,000 tumor cell lines with genetic, epigenetic, and expression alterations, validating results in 11,000 additional human samples.
A recent study has discovered a strong link between genetic mutations and sensitivity to specific drugs in patient-derived cancer cell lines. The researchers found that these cell lines harbor most of the same genetic changes found in patients' tumors, making them useful models for identifying effective treatments.
Scientists analyzed genetic mutations in patient tumors and cancer cell lines to predict which drugs will best fight various cancers. The study found that certain genetic mutations can signal whether cancer cells are sensitive or resistant to different compounds, depending on the type of tissue.
A recent study has combined data from patients, laboratory cancer cell lines, and drug sensitivity to predict how tumours are likely to respond to new drugs. The findings suggest that cancer cell lines can be used to identify the most effective treatment for individual patients, leading to improved success rates for developing personal...
A significant proportion of men with advanced prostate cancer have inherited mutations in DNA repair genes, making them eligible for precision treatments such as PARP inhibitors. Genetic testing could help identify these patients and offer targeted therapies to improve their treatment outcomes.
A phase II study evaluates the safety of palbociclib in African American patients, including those with benign ethnic neutropenia. The study aims to determine if these patients can safely use the drug, which was previously excluded due to risk of infection.
Researchers are using DNA origami to create large, two-dimensional honeycombs and tubes with precise structures. They aim to develop new medicines by exposing the immune system to DNA origami scaffolds holding virus pieces, and explore protein arrangements for sophisticated medicines and electronic devices.
A new study reveals that Argentine tango practice can significantly improve balance and reduce falls risk among cancer patients experiencing peripheral neuropathy. The dance intervention course reduced standing postural sway by 56% in just five weeks, providing a promising balance intervention for cancer survivors.
Researchers identified a new drug target, BRD9, in acute myeloid leukemia and developed a candidate drug, BI-7273. The team discovered that replacing the native bromodomain with a functionally synonymous one allowed them to prove how the drug works, providing valuable information for drug development.
The article introduces a new 'game plan' for oncologists to incorporate new therapies and approaches into clinical guidelines quickly. CancerLinQ, a web-based rapid-learning system, will provide point-of-care clinical decision support with the latest evidence-based recommendations.
Researchers have found that a combination of immunotherapy and FAK inhibitors can improve survival times in mice with pancreatic cancer. The study suggests that targeting fibrous tissue in tumors may render them more responsive to immune therapies.
Researchers found a strong five-gene signature in all patients who succumbed to the disease, regardless of their length of survival. The team also tested HXR9, which blocked HOX gene function, forcing cancer cells to close down and die, and found that combining it with cisplatin significantly increased cancer cell killing.
A new study by bioengineers at Brigham and Women's Hospital demonstrates the effectiveness of combination therapies in eliminating cancer cells. By pairing chemotherapy drug docetaxel with a targeted PI3K inhibitor, researchers achieved greater tumor inhibition and eliminated evidence of resistance.
Researchers found that increasing doses of cisplatin were associated with increased hearing loss at most tested frequencies, and high blood pressure was also linked to hearing loss in these patients. Comprehensive hearing assessments are recommended for survivors given cisplatin-based chemotherapy.
Researchers identified unique genetic signatures in four human breast cancer cell types, which can be used to tailor therapies using combinations of targeted drugs. The study found that targeting multiple driving oncogenes with lower doses reduces side effects and increases effectiveness.
Researchers develop a revolutionary approach to cancer treatment that activates two drugs within the same cell at the same time, preventing resistance in aggressive cancers. By tracking cellular signals and molecular pathways, they discovered vulnerabilities to small molecule PI3K/AKT kinase inhibitors.
Rice University scientists have streamlined the synthesis of uncialamycin, a potent anti-tumor antibiotic that can be used as part of an antibody drug conjugate. The researchers developed a scalable process for bulk production, enabling the creation of novel variations of the molecule with high potency against cancer cells.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine report a link between cancer immunotherapy drugs and rheumatologic diseases, including inflammatory arthritis. The study highlights the need for awareness among patients and clinicians about potential side effects of these drugs.
A novel combination of sorafenib and pemetrexed showed promise in a phase 1 clinical trial, with 61% of patients experiencing tumor growth delay. The therapy was particularly active in breast cancer patients, with one complete response and multiple partial responses.
A new study found that older adults who need help taking medications often have poor vision, hearing, or diagnosed conditions like stroke, diabetes, hypertension, heart attack, or cancer. The study also identified age and gender as predictors of medication assistance needs, with men and those aged 80+ being more likely to require help.
The 2016 Blavatnik National Awards recognize David Charbonneau's exoplanet discoveries, Phil Baran's natural product synthesis research, and Michael Rape's fundamental discoveries in ubiquitylation. The three Laureates receive $250,000 cash awards to support their future work.
A clinical trial found that patient navigators increased the likelihood of low-income and ethnic minority patients receiving cancer screenings. The study showed that 32% of patients connected with navigators completed at least one overdue screening, compared to 18% in the control group.
Researchers at Rice University have synthesized a new cancer-fighting compound called Thailanstatin A, which targets the spliceosome, a complex of proteins and ribonucleoproteins that regulate DNA splicing. The compound has shown promise in preclinical studies and could potentially be used to develop new therapies for cancer.
Researchers at TUM identified the molecular mechanism of thalidomide, revealing a common link between its teratogenic and anti-cancer effects. The study found that disrupting the protein complex CD147-MCT1 leads to both developmental defects and tumor cell death.
Researchers identified a small-molecule inhibitor that disrupted the recruitment of Mastermind-like protein 1 to the Notch transcription complex, inhibiting cancer cell growth and supressing tumor growth in mouse xenograft studies. This discovery represents a new paradigm for Notch-based anticancer therapeutics.
Beverages above 149 degrees Fahrenheit increase tumor risk; coffee and yerba mate safe at lower temperatures. Drinking piping hot coffee or tea increases esophageal cancer risk.
A Vanderbilt University Medical Center study found long-acting opioids significantly increase the risk of death from unintentional overdose and cardiorespiratory events. Alternative medications, such as anticonvulsants and low doses of cyclic antidepressants, may be safer options for managing moderate-to-severe chronic pain.
Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine identified over 850 DNA mutations linked to cancer that may be responsive to existing drugs. The study provides a list of mutations and associated drugs that could benefit patients, expanding the number of cancer treatments available.
Researchers have discovered a new way to slow the growth of aggressive triple negative breast cancer by targeting hypoxia, or low oxygen levels. The study found that drug JQ1 can alter how cancer cells respond to hypoxia, slowing tumour growth and limiting blood vessel production.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that a pre-procedure medication regimen can significantly reduce hospital stays and readmission rates for liver cancer patients undergoing DEB TACE treatment. The study involved 113 procedures in 71 patients, with only 5% requiring hospital admission due to post-procedural syndrome.
A new study reverses resistance to antiangiogenic drugs by adding an antidiabetic agent, inhibiting tumor growth up to 92%. Researchers found that this mechanism can be targeted to attack cancer cells, with potential for improved treatment outcomes. The discovery has the potential to prolong patient benefit from antiangiogenic treatments.
A study found that breast cancer patients who did not adhere to their medication schedule for chronic conditions before diagnosis were twice as likely to skip oral adjuvant hormonal therapy. Non-adherence rates were higher among women with certain age groups, medical specialties, and co-payments.
Researchers at University College London have successfully targeted an autoimmune condition in mice using cancer drugs being tripped in human patients. The study found that by blocking a specific genetic key, the immune system's aggressive response could be prevented, reducing inflammation and damage.
Researchers found that a plant-virus-based carrier successfully delivers the drug candidate phenanthriplatin, outperforming cisplatin in mouse models of triple-negative breast cancer. The nanoparticles target tumors, accumulating inside lysosomal compartments and releasing the drug to block transcription, leading to greater cell death.
Researchers developed a device that can absorb up to 90% of chemotherapy drugs in 25-30 minutes, reducing their circulation and potential harm. The system targets tumors with a concentrated dose while capturing the majority of drugs like a sponge, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
A large, randomized international trial has shown that immunotherapy, specifically nivolumab, significantly improves overall survival and quality of life in patients with rapidly progressing head and neck carcinoma. The treatment also demonstrated a lower rate of serious adverse events compared to standard chemotherapy.
A new method aims to spot scientifically viable cancer research projects and eliminate unsound initiatives. By pooling resources and sponsoring multiple ventures, investors can share high development costs and reduce risks.
Researchers developed a new compound to target mutated p53 genes, found in over 50% of cancers, which are responsible for uncontrolled cell growth. The treatment has shown promising results in patients with modest toxicity, and trials will now expand to 400 patients across Europe and the USA.
Researchers developed an innovative imaging model to track drug resistance and identify a new therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer. The study revealed that the Musashi gene plays a critical role in promoting aggressive disease and found effective antisense inhibitors against Msi, halting tumor growth and improving survival.
A clinical trial shows atezolizumab, a checkpoint inhibitor, is effective in treating advanced bladder cancer, shrinking tumors and stopping new growth. The drug was well-tolerated, with mild side effects, and half of patients responded within 15 weeks.
A clinical trial found that patients with tumors overexpressing DLL3 responded better to the experimental drug rovalpituzumab tesirine (Rova-T), achieving stabilization of disease and significant tumor reductions. The results suggest Rova-T may be a promising treatment option for advanced small cell lung cancer.
A phase II clinical trial found that pembrolizumab reduces tumor size in four types of soft tissue sarcomas and three types of bone sarcomas. Undifferentiated pleomorphic and osteosarcoma subtypes showed particularly promising results, with 44% and 30-40% reductions in tumor size, respectively.
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center have made significant breakthroughs in the treatment of endometrial and ovarian cancers. A Phase II trial combining everolimus, letrozole, and metformin shows a 67 percent clinical benefit rate for patients with recurrent endometrioid endometrial cancer. Additionally, hormonal maintenance therap...
A Phase I/II clinical trial found that nivolumab reduced tumor burden in 24.4 percent of patients with metastatic bladder cancer, regardless of PD-L1 marker presence. The treatment was well-tolerated and showed a median survival of at least one year for 45.6% of patients.
A study found that while overall colorectal cancer rates are decreasing, the incidence of late-stage cancer in young patients is increasing. The study, which analyzed data from Colorado patients, reveals a significant rise in late-stage CRC diagnoses among those under 50.
A phase II clinical study found a 32% clinical benefit in pancreatic cancer patients with BRCA mutation, including one complete response and two partial responses. The drug's acceptable safety profile suggests it may be an option earlier in the treatment course for some patients.
A recent study found that over one-in-four cancer patients struggle to afford medical care, leading to missed appointments and prescription delays. The researchers highlight the need for support programs to help patients navigate financial difficulties.
Researchers found that patients who used metformin before diagnosis had a higher risk of death, while those who started using it after diagnosis were more likely to survive. Metformin also showed promise as a treatment for endometrial hyperplasia, with 56% of patients responding to treatment.
Researchers at Kyoto University have identified a genetic mechanism that could predict effectiveness of cure for certain cancers. Genetic alterations affecting the PD-L1 protein allow cancer cells to escape immune detection, but these abnormalities were found in many common cancer types.
Scientists at The Institute of Cancer Research have developed a new method to assess cancer treatment efficacy by measuring blood metabolite levels. This approach has the potential to speed up the development of targeted drugs and tailor treatment for patients, offering a quick and simple way to monitor cancer therapy.
A new treatment shows promise against a rare and deadly eye cancer by blocking the protein ARF6, which distributes cancer-promoting signals. The study found that inhibiting ARF6 inhibited eye tumors in mice, suggesting a potential strategy for treating other cancers as well.
Researchers have created a new mouse model to evaluate CD40-antibody drugs with improved accuracy, advancing those more likely to be effective in patients. The study found that engagement of the human Fc receptor FcRIIB is essential for therapeutic activity, while FcRIIA compromises it.