Research on new and better ways to treat cancer. Covers radiotherapy, targeted microdroplets, nerve-injury protection, drug combinations, and tumor models.
Researchers developed a universal CAR T cell therapy that overcomes the obstacle of generating personalized cancer-killing cells from young children. The treatment successfully eradicated leukemia from two infant patients, who remained disease-free for 10 and 16 months.
Patient navigators are a valuable resource for American Indians and Alaskan Natives with cancer, helping them overcome barriers to diagnosis and care. Researchers found that patients working with a navigator were almost four times more likely to have a definitive diagnosis within a year of an abnormal screening result.
Researchers develop a non-invasive procedure using high-energy carbon ions to treat cardiac arrhythmias, offering a gentler alternative to catheter-based surgery. The method, tested in animal studies, can permanently interrupt the propagation of disruptive impulses with pinpoint accuracy.
A new study reveals significant disparities in US cancer mortality rates among over 3,100 counties, highlighting unacceptable geographic variations and potential explanations for these differences. The analysis of 29 types of cancer shows that areas with high smoking rates and poor prevention programs tend to have higher mortality rates.
A recent study published in the Journal of Oncology Practice found that oncologists often avoid discussing prognosis with their patients due to a cultural norm. By pausing to ask if patients want to talk about test results, oncologists can create an opportunity for more holistic discussions about life and death.
Analysis of US data from 2002 to 2012 reveals significantly higher cervical cancer mortality rates among black women (77% higher) and white women (47% higher), with disparities increasing over time. Black women's corrected mortality rate is 10.1 per 100,000 women, compared to 5.7 for uncorrected rates.
Researchers at Tohoku University identified two new types of microRNA that improved hyperglycemia in a mouse model of diabetes. These miRNAs were shown to promote insulin-producing cell proliferation and regeneration, offering potential for therapeutic beta-cell regenerative therapies.
Researchers found that inhibiting PLSCR1 controls the infected cell's antiviral response, providing long-term protection from immune attack and excessive inflammation. This discovery holds promise for virally delivered treatments, inflammatory conditions, autoimmune disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases.
The study reveals that CPEB4 is essential for driving the liver stress response and preventing fatty liver disease. By understanding the molecular function of CPEB4, researchers can develop predictive markers and treatments to prevent this condition, which affects millions of people worldwide.
The study identified inactivating mutations in the B2M gene, which codes for a protein involved in the immune response. In lung cancer patients, higher levels of B2M expression correlate with improved response to immunotherapy.
A new review of scientific literature on curcumin finds limited evidence to support its therapeutic benefits for cancer and Alzheimer's disease. The compound is unstable under physiological conditions and not readily absorbed by the body, making it a poor therapeutic candidate.
Researchers from UGR and hospitals Virgen de las Nieves and San Cecilio found that telerehabilitation reduces side effects of breast cancer treatment, such as pain and fatigue. The online exercise program showed excellent results for patients, maintaining benefits even after 6 months.
A new study found that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) increased mammography use among all economic subgroups, including those with lower incomes. However, colonoscopy screening rates remained unchanged despite eliminating out-of-pocket expenses under the ACA. The findings suggest that other barriers to colonoscopy access may still exist.
The cancer death rate has decreased by 25% since its peak in 1991, resulting in 2.1 million fewer cancer deaths between 1991 and 2014. The decline is largely driven by reductions in smoking and improvements in early detection and treatment.
The new special issue of Future Oncology explores the field of psycho-oncology, which aims to integrate biomedical and psychosocial aspects of cancer care. The issue highlights the importance of developing a multi-disciplinary approach to cancer care, from both social and biomedical standpoints.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that overexpression of TRAF6 in hematopoietic stem cells drives the onset of myelodysplasia syndromes, a group of pre-malignant disorders leading to blood cancer if untreated. Potential treatment targets for MDS include TRAF6 and related proteins.
Researchers at Scripps Florida have identified a novel signaling circuit driving therapy resistance in advanced prostate cancer. Targeting the components of this circuit, such as the NF-kB pathway and microRNA miR-196b-3p, shows promise in blocking the expression of stem cell transcription factors that fuel aggressive tumor growth.
A University of Florida study found that discrimination interacts with certain genetic variants to alter blood pressure and increase the risk of hypertension. Vicarious unfair treatment, or experiencing discrimination through close friends and family, also had a significant impact on stress levels.
Scientists have developed a temporary tattoo ink that marks the spot for future treatment in skin cancer patients. The new ink glows under specific light conditions and can disappear after a period of time, eliminating the need for laser or surgical removal.
A special issue of Cancer Epidemiology shows that cancer registries in Kenya, Uganda, Colombia, India, and Barbados can provide valuable data for policy-making on cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The low cost of registration per person and economies of scale make them a viable option for resource-constrained countries.
Researchers have found that inflammation plays a role in the development of epilepsy in TSC patients and that targeting this process could be a potential therapy. Studies using a mouse model of TSC found increased levels of inflammatory molecules in brain tissue before seizure onset, which were reversed by anti-inflammatory compounds.
A Malaysian study found that four in five cancer survivors suffer from anxiety and depression a year after diagnosis. The study also highlighted the importance of addressing quality of life for cancer patients beyond clinical outcomes.
DBA's molecular mechanisms involve ribosomal protein deficiency, leading to p53 pathway activation and microRNA34A-mediated decreased red blood cell formation. Exogenous nucleosides may alleviate symptoms by reducing DNA damage response and increasing energy metabolism.
A special issue of Cancer Epidemiology highlights the importance of cancer registration in resource-constrained settings, demonstrating cost savings through economies of scale. The study reviews cancer registries in Kenya, Uganda, Colombia, India, and Barbados, offering lessons for other countries with similar constraints.
A new study published in Journal of Investigative Dermatology reports initial success with imiquimod, a topical skin cream for low-risk basal cell carcinoma lesions. The 5-year follow-up results show sustained efficacy and low recurrence rates for patients treated with imiquimod.
A new study found that socially isolated breast cancer survivors had a 40% higher risk of recurrence, a 60% higher risk of dying from breast cancer, and a 70% higher risk of dying from any cause. Women with larger social networks experienced better outcomes.
Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered a gene network of 320 genes associated with epilepsy. The M30 network is thought to be involved in how brain cells communicate with each other and its malfunction triggers seizures. Finding medications that restore this network could provide new treatments for the condition.
Researchers have developed biocompatible nanocapsules that transport glucose oxidase and L-arginine into tumor cells, starving them of nutrients while releasing toxic nitrogen monoxide. This synergistic treatment concept successfully inhibits cell growth, initiates cell death, and shrinks tumors in mice.
Researchers developed a model system to study ARID1A's tumor-suppressing effects on colon cancer. They found that ARID1A functions as a principal tumor suppressor by regulating active enhancers.
Recent evidence suggests a link between the gut microbiome and colorectal cancer development, with specific types of intestinal bacteria contributing to disease progression. Dietary-based therapeutic interventions, such as probiotics and prebiotics, may help modify the gut microbiome to reduce CRC risk.
Scientists discovered truncated p53 proteins that can promote cancer growth and metastasis. The mutant proteins interact with mitochondria and alter its functions, leading to tumor progression and poor outcomes.
Researchers found that administering amlodipine alongside chelation therapy effectively reduces cardiac iron in patients with thalassemia major, potentially combating heart failure and fatal arrhythmias. The treatment is considered safe and inexpensive, with no significant side effects.
The phase 3 ECOG-ACRIN E2905 Intergroup Study found that lenalidomide plus epoetin alpha resulted in improved major erythroid response rates and a similar toxicity profile compared to lenalidomide alone. This combination therapy showed significant benefits for patients with lower-risk, erythropoietin-refractory MDS.
A metabolite called D-2-hydroxyglutarate (D-2HG) has been identified as a promising target for future cancer therapies due to its ability to promote cancer cell transformation and increase the likelihood of tumor spread in colorectal cancer patients.
IDIBELL researchers describe the Ewing's sarcoma methylation profile for the first time, unveiling the potential of the PTRF gene as a prognostic marker and possible future therapeutic target. The study found that PTRF expression is associated with better survival rates in patients.
Fertility preservation for girls and young women with cancer is hindered by lack of awareness and funding. Despite guidelines, access to treatment is restricted due to variable oncologist awareness and conflicting funding policies.
A study found a sixfold increase in thyroid cancer incidence in South Korea between 1999 and 2008, mainly due to overdetection by screening. The researchers call for reduced ultrasound examinations in the general population to mitigate the economic burden of unnecessary treatments.
The Journal of X-Ray Science and Technology has added embedded 3D image videos to its articles, enhancing the value of five papers on kidney injuries, tumor diagnoses, and dental medicine. The videos allow readers to examine rotating 3D images in detail, gaining a deeper understanding of diagnoses, prognoses, and treatments.
Researchers at NUS have found that controlling TIP60 protein levels could prevent breast cancer cell spread. TIP60 interacts with DNMT1 and SNAIL2 to inhibit metastasis, suggesting a potential new strategy for treating various cancers.
The National Cancer Institute has granted $2.5 million to Van Andel Research Institute and Cedars-Sinai to develop better diagnostic and treatment strategies for cancer. The project aims to uncover the underpinnings of cancer by analyzing epigenetic data from thousands of samples.
VA researchers found certain HLA gene alleles offer protection from Gulf War illness, while lacking them makes veterans vulnerable to symptoms. The studies used MEG brain scans to track differences and found that such protection is manifested in the brain.
A study of 101 advanced lung cancer patients found that hybrid capture-based next-generation sequencing (HC-based NGS) identified clinically actionable genomic alterations (GAs) in 50% of patients, leading to changes in treatment strategy. The overall response rate to targeted therapies was 65%, with median survival not yet reached.
Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine found that ustekinumab induces response and remission in patients with Crohn's disease. The study showed high remission rates among patients treated with intravenous or subcutaneous ustekinumab.
New research suggests that food restriction increases levels of tumor-suppressing molecule p53 in mice and human hepatocytes. This p53-induction is required for fasting-induced adaptation of nutrient metabolism, offering new therapeutic concepts for metabolic diseases and cancer.
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine developed a bioinformatics framework that identified key proteins significantly altered in patients with diabetic kidney disease. The 'MetBridge Generator' framework revealed the protein MDM2 played a key role in disease progression, and its potential as a therapeutic target was discovered.
Testing for HPV types 16 and 18 in women with minor cervical lesions may help determine which patients should be referred to colposcopy. This approach could lead to more precise patient management and reduced healthcare burden.
The project aims to improve diagnosis and tailor treatment by analyzing the genome and expressed genes of tumour cells from 250 breast cancer patients. This personalized approach will help doctors choose the best treatment for individual patients, potentially increasing survival rates and reducing side effects.
Researchers have discovered how heat shock factor 1 (HSF1), a master transcriptional regulator, is activated and controlled by the on/off switch HSP70 and phosphorylation. This finding could lead to treatments for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
The American Society of Hematology has partnered with several organizations to create a specialized curriculum for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) care. The program aims to address knowledge gaps in the entire multidisciplinary team involved in AML management, including accurate diagnosis, risk stratification, and treatment options.
A team of scientists, led by prof. Savvas Savvides, used integrative structural biology to study how GIF, a protein secreted by the Orf virus, inactivates key cytokines of the host immune system. The research reveals unique strategies that viruses use to counter antiviral responses and highlights great potential for innovative therapies.
A study of over 2,000 people in the UK found that two thirds worry about emotional impact and cancer treatments, while ethnic minorities are more likely to worry about social consequences.
A new procedure using a 22-gauge needle improves the diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) through microscopic examination of tissue samples. Researchers successfully diagnosed AIP in 58% of patients using this method, offering a solution for distinguishing AIP from pancreatic cancer.
The study highlights the importance of understanding the risks of obesity and its effects on overall health. Americans perceive diet and exercise as the most effective long-term weight loss method, despite medical professionals recommending a range of treatments.
The Cell Press has partnered with The American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy (ASGCT) to publish its four journals, including Molecular Therapy, starting January 2017. This partnership aims to improve the dissemination of research breakthroughs in gene and cell therapies.
Researchers used Stampede supercomputer to simulate largest atomic level system of p53 protein, identifying new 'pockets' to reactivate the tumor suppression protein. The simulations revealed complex dynamics between p53 and DNA sequences, offering insights into a potential anticancer therapeutic strategy.
Researchers at University of Granada found telerehabilitation through Skype reduces pain, fatigue, and improves strength in women with breast cancer. An 8-week exercise program led to significant benefits that lasted 6 months after completion.
A Mayo Clinic study found that patients with multiple myeloma treated at centers seeing more cases of the disease live longer. The researchers analyzed data from over 94,000 patients and discovered a significant correlation between treatment center volume and patient outcomes.
A pediatric otolaryngologist is developing a mouse model to identify the most effective treatment for respiratory papillomatosis, a rare condition that can cause chronic hoarseness and breathing problems in children. The goal is to provide personalized medicine and reduce the need for frequent surgeries.
A new report suggests that well over half of American men with non-aggressive prostate cancer could choose to monitor their disease instead of seeking immediate radiation treatment or surgery. Active surveillance relies on regular blood tests, physical exams, and periodic biopsies to screen for tumor growth before therapy is considered.
A Phase 1 clinical trial demonstrated the long-term safety of gene transfer in treating neovascular age-related macular degeneration. The therapy produced therapeutic proteins encoded by genes for at least 2.5 years in patients with advanced NVAMD.