Research on new and better ways to treat cancer. Covers radiotherapy, targeted microdroplets, nerve-injury protection, drug combinations, and tumor models.
A study of older women with newly diagnosed stage I to III breast cancer found that approximately one in five experienced functional decline within a year of treatment initiation. The Vulnerable Elders Survey was used to identify those at risk, showing promise for early identification and prevention of functional decline.
A team of scientists has developed a computational method to map cancer progression, which offers new insights into the factors that spur this affliction. The researchers used gene sequencing data to create a model that predicts how a tumor's genomes will change over time.
A new study found that simple activities such as playing cards or throwing a foam ball can help patients regain strength and coordination after a stroke. The study showed improvements in motor performance of up to 40% with these activities compared to virtual reality games.
A team of researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered that the loss of essential protein Alix leads to hydrocephalus in mice by compromising the epithelial barrier and disrupting tight junctions. This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying brain homeostasis.
Researchers outline recent progress in clinical applications of retinal gene replacement therapy and preclinical advances in gene-specific therapy for photoreceptor diseases. Gene therapy strategies are being developed to treat a broader range of disorders affecting vision, providing new hope for individuals with eye diseases.
A review of 60 studies found that plant-based therapies like phytoestrogens and herbal remedies may improve menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. However, the evidence is limited by quality and more rigorous studies are needed to confirm these findings.
A study found that surgeons who admit to bias towards their specialty increase patient trust and lead to more surgical treatments. Patients who hear this admission are nearly three times more likely to choose surgery, indicating a significant influence on patient decision-making.
Researchers found that inhibiting the p110α PI3K isoform is sufficient to block tumor growth and metastasis in a mice model of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. The study demonstrates promise for a new targeted therapy, with potential benefits including reduced toxicity compared to generic inhibitors.
A study analyzing over 34,000 lung cancer patients in England found that those aged 50-64 are more likely to be diagnosed at a late stage compared to older age groups. Younger patients in their 70s are more likely to be diagnosed with early-stage disease.
Researchers at The University of Texas Medical Branch found that adolescent and young adult cancer survivors are more likely to be current cigarette smokers. The study highlights the importance of addressing smoking during medical visits to encourage survivors to quit.
Paul A. Northcott, a researcher at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, has been selected as a Pew-Stewart Scholar to tackle medulloblastoma, the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor. The award includes four years of funding and aims to develop much-needed therapies for patients who relapse.
A study found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who are positive for the anti-CCP antibody respond better to abatacept, a T cell co-stimulation blocker. In contrast, patients without this antibody do not show significant differences in treatment response to TNF inhibitors.
ROSC provides coordinated, patient-centered services for substance abuse and psychiatric disorders, supported by primary care providers. The special issue highlights the critical role of ROSC in overcoming obstacles and sustaining recovery.
A new hybridization-induced aggregation technology detects KRAS mutations in lung and colorectal cancers, enabling targeted therapies. The technique is simple, rapid, and inexpensive, with 100% agreement with sequencing results.
A new pre-surgery technique using an expandable tube may make colostomy bags redundant for emergency bowel cancer patients. The study found that less than half of those who had their bowel unblocked needed a colostomy bag, while more than two-thirds required one after emergency surgery.
Researchers report that two topical creams are effective in most primary, low-risk superficial BCC patients, with favorable comparison to photodynamic therapy. The study found high clearance rates for imiquimod and fluorouracil treatments, but noted a higher recurrence rate for fluorouracil.
Researchers developed a new contrast agent to monitor stem cell treatments inside the body using MRI scans. The agent addresses technical challenges such as toxicity and accumulation in cells, offering improved resolution and sensitivity.
A commentary suggests that gene therapy treatments for rare diseases should be valued based on long-term cost savings. The authors propose tying costs to efficacy and creating a federal initiative to support new therapies.
Recent evidence suggests that AAV vectors used for gene therapy can trigger liver cancer in rare patients. A new article challenges re-interpreted data, reaffirming the link between insertional mutagenesis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
Many young adult female cancer survivors experience unmet informational needs and reproductive concerns, leading to decisional conflict about post-treatment fertility preservation. The study highlights the need for better resources to support survivors in making informed decisions about their reproductive options.
Immune cells build a molecular memory of their first meal after eating a dying neighboring cell, shaping their inflammatory behavior. This discovery may lead to novel therapies for inflammatory disorders such as atherosclerosis, cancer, and arthritis.
Researchers identify mutation in ATP4a gene responsible for aggressive form of inherited gastric NET. Restoring normal gastric acid balance with hydrogen chloride solution prevents tumour development in genetically engineered mice.
Researchers found that men with localized prostate cancer often underestimate their life expectancy without treatment and overestimate the benefits of surgery or radiation. This can lead to overtreatment, decisional regret, and decreased post-treatment quality of life. A recent study published in the Annals of Family Medicine suggests ...
Researchers from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center share results of experience with over 500 patients with pulmonary metastases from STS, identifying prognostic factors associated with improved survival. The study found that leiomyosarcoma histologic subtype, primary tumor size, and minimally invasive resections were significantly...
Breast cancer tumor-initiating cells use mTOR signaling to recruit myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which are involved in suppressing the body's response against tumors. This interaction helps researchers understand the events leading to tumor growth and metastasis, identifying potential therapeutic targets.
Ana Sofia Silva received the Best Ph.D. Thesis Award for her research on multifunctional nano-in-micro formulations for lung cancer theragnosis, proposing a new therapeutic approach to combat the disease.
Research shows that 1 in 5 colorectal cancer patients are depressed at diagnosis, and this can significantly impact their quality of life. The study highlights the importance of considering psychological factors in patient care and support.
The Society of Surgical Oncology and European Society of Surgical Oncology propose a global curriculum to address training variations and inadequacies. The curriculum aims to create a robust workforce of well-trained surgical oncologists to meet the growing need resulting from the rising global cancer burden.
The report, based on over 3,000 patient surveys, sheds light on the physical, emotional, financial, practical, and informational needs of cancer patients during and after treatment. It aims to inform program development and address patient needs throughout their continuum of care.
Researchers have discovered biomarkers in the brain that could help scientists develop effective treatments for single-sided deafness. The study used multi-modal imaging techniques to analyze changes in brain structure and function in response to the condition.
A UK study published in Nature reveals neurotensin as a potential biological marker for the development of obesity. Neurotensin, produced mainly in the gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system, is released with fat ingestion and stimulates fatty acid absorption in the intestine.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that gamma-retroviruses preferentially insert near cancer-associated genes, suggesting a new tool for identifying genes driving specific cancers. This discovery could lead to the identification of potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers from 39 institutions worldwide analyzed 91 samples of adrenocortical carcinoma, uncovering double the number of genetic drivers known to fuel adrenal cancer. The study also identified three distinct subtypes of adrenal cancer linked to different outcomes, suggesting a way to use molecular biomarkers for targeted therapy.
A new study found that cancer increases the risk for certain health issues beyond normal aging, including declines in activities of daily living and physical function. However, having a cancer diagnosis did not increase the likelihood of developing arthritis or vision/hearing problems, and did not exacerbate existing conditions.
A new study by Cardiff University found that combining insulin with metformin reduces mortality and heart attacks in people with type 2 diabetes. The researchers tracked 12,020 patients for three and a half years on average, finding no difference in cancer risk between single-insulin therapy and combination treatment.
A new study published in Cell Reports identifies microRNA molecule miR551b as a promising candidate biomarker and therapeutic target for treating ovarian cancers. The research found that targeting miR551b expression could block STAT3 activity, offering potential for treating the most common and deadly form of ovarian cancer.
The study uncovered five new genes associated with breast cancer and 13 new mutational signatures that influence tumour development. The analysis revealed the genetic variations in breast cancers and their distribution across the genome.
Researchers have developed a method to identify HPV infections using self-collected vaginal swabs, which provides accurate results similar to clinician-collected cervical specimens. This technology enables same-day screening and treatment, critical for preventing premature deaths from HPV-associated cancers in low-income countries.
Researchers at the Universities of York and Leiden have created fluorescent chemical probes to measure acid alpha-glucosidase enzyme levels in human cells. This technology enables rapid detection of enzyme deficiencies, informing more effective treatments for Pompe disease and potentially other inherited conditions.
A team from McGill University Health Centre identified an outbreak of the intestinal parasite Cryptosporidium in Nunavik, Quebec. The strain was found to be Cryptosporidium hominis and had a significant impact on children under five years old, causing growth delays and difficulty at school.
A new study finds HPV vaccination is expected to reduce cancer burden across all racial/ethnic groups, with some disparities persisting despite high vaccine uptake. The study suggests that efforts to improve vaccine uptake must be accompanied by efforts to address access issues for screening and timely diagnoses.
Breast cancer cells challenged with a small-molecule inhibitor targeting specific invasive properties switch to an alternative mode-of-action, rendering them even more aggressive. The results suggest that inhibiting one pathway may not block all aggressiveness in breast cancer cells.
Only 14 mental health apps were examined in a recent literature review, with little efficacy, safety or clinical outcome data found. A framework, ASPECTS, has been proposed to guide psychiatrists and patients in evaluating apps for clinical use.
Researchers found that about 5% of patients experienced unexpected relapses of cancer after laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) despite favorable pathology. The use of pneumoperitoneum during LRC may have played a role in these recurrences, according to the study published in The Journal of Urology.
Researchers at Kazan Federal University and the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine have identified correlations between superoxide, nitric oxide levels and matrix metalloproteinase activity in gastric cancer patients. This discovery could lead to more accurate diagnostics and personalized treatment plans for stomach cancer.
A leading scientist at Florida Atlantic University has received a $540,250 NIH grant to continue his research on collagen-based diseases. He aims to develop models to study the degradation of collagen in various conditions such as multiple sclerosis, cancer, and sepsis.
A phase II clinical trial showed that watercress extract significantly inhibits the activation of tobacco-derived carcinogens in cigarette smokers, with a stronger effect in those lacking certain genes involved in processing carcinogens. The extract also detoxifies environmental carcinogens and toxicants found in cigarette smoke.
A study published in JAMA found that pembrolizumab, an antibody against PD-1, was associated with a 33% objective response rate and 23-month median overall survival in patients with advanced melanoma. The treatment also showed improved progression-free survival rates of 35% at 12 months and 52% at 12 months
New technology allows for detailed analysis of prostate shape changes after treatment, potentially providing prognostic information and early biomarkers. The study, published in PLOS ONE, involves eight patients and plans to expand to 40 more, tracking long-term outcomes.
The white paper outlines key takeaways, including the importance of proper sunscreen use to reduce melanoma risk by up to 50%, developing more precise diagnosis methods, and overcoming immunotherapy resistance. The research aims to advance treatment and potentially cure melanoma by understanding its unique characteristics.
Researchers at University of California, Irvine, have found a way to reduce the aberrant accumulation of the mutant Huntingtin protein in Huntington's disease. By targeting and modulating levels of PIAS1, they showed improvement in symptoms and neuroinflammation in HD mice.
A new study demonstrates that antiviral therapy for immune tolerant Hepatitis B patients prolongs overall survival and reduces the risk of developing liver cancer (HCC) and scarring of the liver (cirrhosis). Nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment significantly lowers HCC and cirrhosis risks.
A new study found that patients with a prior history of hepatocellular carcinoma and treated with direct-acting antivirals for Hepatitis C have a higher-than-expected early recurrence rate of their liver cancer, with rates exceeding 40% in some subgroups. The recurrences may be due to a weakened immune system following DAA therapy.
Lay health advisors play a crucial role in reducing health disparities among medically underserved groups. Research from Roswell Park and Columbia University found that support from academic institutions is key to their success, with partnerships leading to higher retention rates. The study also highlights the importance of clear role ...
A randomized clinical trial found neratinib plus paclitaxel to delay central nervous system (CNS) metastases and reduce their frequency compared to trastuzumab plus paclitaxel in women with ERBB2-positive breast cancer. However, median progression-free survival was similar between the two groups.
A new study found that only 50% of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer in the US receive the recommended standard therapy, which has increased over the past decade. Socioeconomic factors such as facility volume, race/ethnicity, insurance status, and education level are associated with a lower chance of receiving this treatment.
A new study found that patients with Hepatitis C virus who took direct-acting antiviral treatments had a 'high rate' of re-developing their illness, including liver cancer. The study suggests that these patients require close monitoring due to the high risk of recurrence.
Researchers found increased mutations at gene promoter sites are caused by a compromised nucleotide excision repair system. This highlights the need for further research into gene promoter mutations and their role in cancer development.
A new study finds a significant association between androgen deprivation therapy and depression in patients with localized prostate cancer. Patients treated with hormone therapy experienced higher incidences of depression, with risks increasing with treatment duration.
Researchers found that pericardial window operation, a treatment for malignant pericardial effusion, is less effective in lung cancer cases compared to other types of cancer. The study suggests alternative, less invasive methods such as needle punctures may be more efficient over time.