Research on new and better ways to treat cancer. Covers radiotherapy, targeted microdroplets, nerve-injury protection, drug combinations, and tumor models.
A new AI-based approach, PERCEPTION, uses single-cell transcriptomics to predict patient response to cancer drugs and monitor resistance. The approach was validated in three clinical trials for multiple myeloma, breast, and lung cancer, with promising results.
A national cohort study found that neighborhood disadvantage was independently associated with shorter breast cancer–specific survival. The study suggests potential unaccounted-for mechanisms, including both nonbiologic and biologic factors, and highlights the need for further research.
Only 4% of cancer survivors met all four American Cancer Society guidelines, with a mean of 2.0 guidelines met. This study aims to improve understanding of guideline adherence and inform recommendations for patients who have completed cancer treatments.
The authors suggest a regulatory approach that accommodates the unique characteristics of generalist AI models while ensuring patient safety and supporting physician decision-making. This is crucial as rigid frameworks may hinder progress in AI-driven healthcare, while hybrid approaches could be viable solutions.
Researchers from Osaka University have discovered a way to deliver antisense oligonucleotides to their targets inside cancer cells by opening specific calcium permeable channels. The new compound, L687, promotes efficient uptake of ASO into cancer cells, suppressing target gene activity and enhancing ASO efficacy.
Researchers at Tampere University and Hospital discovered that aberrant DNA methylation contributes to the development of aggressive AT/RT brain tumors in young children. This finding paves the way for a deeper understanding of the disease and potential new treatments.
Young breast cancer survivors without germline pathogenic variants are at lower risk for developing a second primary breast cancer within the first decade after diagnosis. This study informs treatment decision-making and follow-up care considerations in this population.
This study evaluated somatic copy number alterations (SCNAs) and mutation landscapes in malignant rhabdoid tumors before and after treatment. The results revealed recurrent SCNAs harboring genes involved in tumorigenesis, with some correlations between gene expression and tumor progression.
Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have developed a novel method for coating engineered messenger RNA molecules with polyethylene glycol (PEG), allowing selective delivery to the spleen. This breakthrough enables fine-tuned control over mRNA therapy, facilitating effective treatment of diseases previously considered inc...
New findings in The American Journal of Pathology indicate that periostin promotes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression by enhancing cancer and stromal cell migration in cancer-associated fibroblasts. Periostin may be a promising therapeutic target for treating ESCC.
The study assessed relationships between TCM syndromes and lung cancer TNM staging indicators, finding phlegm dampness syndrome dominant in stages I & II, Qi Yin deficiency syndrome in stages III & IV. The findings suggest bias in included literature, emphasizing the need for larger sample sizes and clinical experimental investigations.
Researchers have identified specific gut microbiota signatures associated with KRAS mutations in colorectal cancer. The study suggests that these microbes may serve as non-invasive biomarkers for identifying subtypes of CRC and inform personalized treatment approaches.
Researchers used single-molecule microscopy and X-ray crystallography to discover that pathogenic JAK2 mutations utilize pseudokinase domain-mediated dimerization as a mechanism for activation. The study provides new insights into the molecular basis of JAK2 activation and its role in blood cancers.
A new study from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine shows that community-based screening and treatment for Helicobacter pylori bacterium infection can identify and eliminate high-risk individuals. The approach aims to prevent gastric cancer in vulnerable populations, including Blacks, Asians, and Latinos.
Researchers at Mass General Cancer Center presented advancements in rapid nucleic acid detection for cervical cancer screening using CRISPR technology. They also showcased improvements to CAR T cell therapy for pancreatic cancer, highlighting the importance of dynamic functional control to enhance its efficacy.
A Northwestern University study found ChatGPT's responses to radiation oncology patient questions were on par or exceeded professional society answers. The AI technology aims to empower patients before and after seeing physicians, while also reducing clinician burnout.
A 10-center study found that microwave ablation is associated with similar progression-free survival rates to surgery but with fewer complications and a greater potential for preserving thyroid function. The procedure resulted in less blood loss, shorter incision length, and shorter procedure and hospitalization durations.
Researchers found that doctors can confidently skip 50% of biopsies by combining MRI-based prostate imaging reporting and data system scores with prostate-specific antigen density testing. The study suggests that this approach can decrease patient harm and healthcare costs associated with unnecessary biopsies.
A survey of 204 oncologists found that while patients should understand AI models, most agreed that patients should consent to their use. The study highlights the need for rigorous assessments of AI's impact on care decisions and patient autonomy.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that hospitals accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC) demonstrate significantly better outcomes for patients undergoing rectal cancer surgery. These institutions show lower rates of mortality, complications, and morbidity comp...
A study published in Nature Genetics reveals early cell changes in healthy carriers of BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, suggesting a potential target for breast cancer prevention. The researchers created the world's largest catalogue of human breast cells, which may lead to the use of existing immunotherapy drugs as an early intervention.
Researchers unveil innovative strategies to overcome metabolic constraints in CAR-T cell therapy, aiming to boost its efficacy in treating solid tumors. Metabolic interventions targeting immunosuppressive metabolites, metabolite uptake, and mitochondrial metabolism are proposed to enhance anti-tumor activity.
A study published in International Journal of Cancer found that men with advanced degrees and higher incomes are more likely to receive comprehensive care for prostate cancer, including MRI scans and curative treatment. This leads to lower mortality rates from the disease compared to those with lower education and income.
Researchers developed a real-time temperature reconstruction technique for HIFU treatment, enabling accurate monitoring and planning. This approach uses deep learning to transform ultrasonic images into temperature images in just a few milliseconds.
Researchers have identified a combination of medications that may improve blood flow within granulomas, benefiting drug delivery and reducing bacterial burden in tuberculosis-infected rabbits. The study leverages decades of cancer research to study tuberculosis-affected lung tissue and improves treatment.
Researchers found no significant differences between standard and keyhole surgical incision types on short-term clinical outcomes, physical function recovery, or NHS resource costs for oesophageal cancer patients. The ROMIO study suggests that surgeons can maintain their preferred procedure type without compromising patient care.
Research reveals a significant connection between oral bacteria and accelerated pancreatic cancer development in mice. Viable Porphyromonas gingivalis was found in the pancreas of healthy mice after gum application, causing changes in the organ's microbial balance.
Researchers have discovered a new immunotherapy approach to overcome resistant leukemia by targeting the mutated TP53 gene. Combining pharmacological therapies with genetically engineered CAR T-cells increases effectiveness against cancer cells, offering promising strategies for patients with resistant disease.
Researchers have developed a new tool to help clinics recruit patients from more communities by analyzing nearby hospitals serving diverse populations. The approach aims to increase accessibility and diversity in cancer trials, with the potential to improve patient outcomes.
NeXT Personal assay detects up to ~1,800 somatic variants specific to the patient's tumor with a detection threshold of 1.67 PPM and 99.9% specificity. The assay showed linearity over a range of 0.8 to 300,000 PPM.
A combined PET-MRI scan improved treatment outcomes for 57 out of 205 patients with early-stage breast cancer. The scan helped doctors spot signs of tumour spread, enabling alternative treatments such as chemotherapy or different surgical approaches.
A UNIGE team has identified the mechanism of action of PARP inhibitors, used to treat breast and ovarian cancer. By blocking one activity while preserving another, these inhibitors can maintain toxic effects on cancer cells while sparing healthy cells.
Researchers found that young breast cancer patients who received a low-dose radiotherapy boost had a lower risk of local recurrence after 10 years, with only 4.4% experiencing recurrence. In contrast, high-dose boosts resulted in fewer recurrences but also more severe fibrosis and cosmetic issues.
A study by IRB Barcelona and Sant Joan de Déu Hospital reveals three distinct patterns explaining the occurrence of second cancers in children, including a mutational footprint from chemotherapy. The research advances understanding of pediatric cancer and highlights the importance of clinical data sharing.
A new study suggests that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and lumbar puncture may not be necessary for diagnosing and managing immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) in CAR T-cell therapy recipients. EEG findings often led to adjustments in medications, indicating its continued importance as a diagnostic tool.
Researchers have demonstrated that attaching 'empty' backpacks to neutrophils activates them against cancer. The treated neutrophils infused into mice with cancer activated other immune cells and reduced tumor size. This technique is attractive as a 'drug-free' cell therapy for cancer.
Researchers have developed diverse nanoparticles for cancer therapy, including micelles, liposomes, and hybrid nanoparticles, which can overcome challenges and deliver drugs with enhanced targeting abilities.
A meta-analysis of mitochondria-related gene expression data reveals an imbalance in mitochondrial functions after trastuzumab treatment, potentially leading to heart failure. The study provides innovative insights into the mechanisms of trastuzumab cardiotoxicity and informs future drug discovery and precision oncology research.
A new link has been discovered between FBXW7 mutations and EGFR signaling activity in colorectal cancer. The study found that the mutated form of the FBXW7 gene could no longer degrade the EGFR protein, leading to increased signaling activity and a decreased response to anti-EGFR treatment.
A study by Cancer Research UK reveals that mortality rates have dropped by 37% in men and 33% in women, with significant reductions in cervical cancer and lung cancer. However, cancer cases are on the rise overall, and researchers warn of an immense challenge ahead to maintain progress.
A new study from Uppsala University found that women with germ cell tumors have a significantly lower five-year survival rate (85.2%) compared to men (98.2%). The researchers suggest that concentrating patients in fewer hospitals and using treatment strategies for testicular cancer could improve survival rates and reduce side effects.
Researchers developed a machine-learning model to assess prostate cancer biopsy samples, overcoming limitations of traditional methods. The new model, nnU-Net, provides accurate 3D segmentation of glandular tissue structures, leading to better prognostic analyses and potential improvements in patient outcomes.
Researchers developed a new catheter-based device combining FLIM with polarization-sensitive OCT to image atherosclerotic plaques. The hybrid approach provides unprecedented information on plaque morphology, microstructure, and biochemical composition.
A new approach to menopause is needed, focusing on empowering women with high-quality information and empathic clinical care. The experience of menopause varies for each person, and an individualised approach can help women navigate this life stage.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a new method to efficiently determine which lipid nanoparticles are likely to bind to the lungs, rather than the liver. This breakthrough enables targeted delivery of mRNA therapeutics beyond the liver, offering new hope for treatments of cystic fibrosis and lung cancer.
The European LeukemiaNet has published two-part guidelines for adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment, covering diagnostics, prognostic factors, response assessments, and comprehensive management. These recommendations are based on a decade of systematic work by European experts, improving the prognosis of adult patients with ALL.
A Cancer Research UK-funded study uses AI to identify two distinct subtypes of prostate cancer, termed evotypes, which could lead to personalized treatments. The discovery has the potential to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes, saving thousands of lives in the future.
A study of 34,500 patients found racial and ethnic disparities in locally advanced rectal cancer treatment outcomes may be influenced by unidentified biological or social factors. Non-Hispanic Black patients were more likely to experience poorer outcomes.
A new study published in Oncotarget reveals a higher prevalence of germline BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in ovarian cancer patients from the Salento peninsula, with 28.6% having familial cases and 39.7% having sporadic cases. The study found that 29.8% of patients were carriers of BRCA1/2 mutation.
Researchers at UCSF have identified AF1q as a universal biomarker for neuroblastoma, a highly aggressive and fatal form of childhood cancer. High-risk cases have a five-year survival rate of just 50%. The study found that silencing AF1q in neuroblastoma cells induces cell death and weakens tumor progression.
A recent study by Pusan National University scientists discovered the crucial role of PKM gene and EPHA2 pathway in HNSCC development. The research highlights the importance of HPV infection status in shaping the tumor microenvironment, enabling precision medicine for targeted treatment.
Researchers developed scSNV-seq to investigate genetic changes affecting gene activity and disease development. The technique accurately assesses the impact of thousands of DNA mutations in cells, providing crucial insights for developing targeted therapies.
A Boston College biologist is studying the mechanisms of viral insulins to develop novel therapeutics for a range of human diseases, including cancers. The researcher has identified six viruses that mimic human insulin and IGF-1, which can block an important receptor, leading to potential affordable treatments.
Researchers found GZ17-6.02 alone and in combination with standard-of-care agents was effective in killing MF cells, activating key pathways including ATM, AMPK, NFκB, and macroautophagy. The compound's unique multi-factorial mechanism suggests potential for treating mycosis fungoides.
A recent study by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory researchers reveals that chronic stress can increase cancer's ability to spread. By mimicking chronic stress in mice with cancer, the team discovered that stress causes neutrophils to form sticky web-like structures called NETs, making body tissues more susceptible to metastasis.
Researchers developed a CRISPR RNA-editing platform to regulate immune cell metabolism, boosting anti-tumor function and sustaining T cell proliferation. The platform enables reversible changes to gene expression and can be controlled by a drug, offering a safety switch for immunotherapy treatments.
Researchers identified a putative paclitaxel response predictive biomarker for glioblastoma and breast cancer using the whole genome CRISPR knockout screen. The biomarker candidate was validated in two independent breast cancer patient cohorts that received taxane treatment.
A team of researchers from the University of Tokyo demonstrated that a drug, valemetostat, reduces tumor growth in blood cancer by targeting H3K27me3, a protein modification silencing tumor suppressor genes. The treatment restores expression of many tumor suppressor genes and sustains inhibiting tumor cell growth.
Researchers developed a novel machine learning-based approach to analyze diffuse reflectance spectroscopy data, achieving higher accuracies and speeds than existing methods. The 'wavelength-independent regressor' model overcomes use-error limitations by incorporating diverse datasets, making it suitable for clinical settings.
Recent US nationwide data reveal rising HCC incidence and mortality rates primarily affecting men and older adults. The study highlights disparities among racial/ethnic groups and underscores the need for targeted early detection, intervention, and treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes.