Research on new and better ways to treat cancer. Covers radiotherapy, targeted microdroplets, nerve-injury protection, drug combinations, and tumor models.
A recent study published in European Urology found that nearly 87% of prostate cancer patients who underwent robot-assisted radical prostatectomy had no recurrence after five years. The study, led by Dr. Mani Menon, suggests that robotic-assisted surgery is an effective treatment for localized prostate cancer.
Researchers have discovered a crucial mechanism for regulating gene expression, where noncoding RNAs interact with DNA to silence specific genes. This breakthrough sheds light on the complex interactions between epigenetic regulation and noncoding RNA molecules.
This special issue of Perspectives on Psychological Science investigates the potential of genetics research, personalized medicine, and behavioral intervention to improve patient care. The articles examine the intersection of behavior and genetics, with a focus on tailoring treatments to individual genetic characteristics.
The DFG is establishing four new Research Units to explore topics such as sacrality in pre-modern era, placebo and nocebo effects, and developing new methods for surgical interventions on the skull. These units aim to enable researchers to devote themselves to current issues and develop new approaches.
The AACR will honor two leading breast cancer researchers, Klaus Pantel and Alan Ashworth, for their groundbreaking work on detection and treatment of breast cancer. Pantel will receive the Outstanding Investigator Award for his pioneering research on minimal residual disease, while Ashworth will deliver the Distinguished Lectureship f...
Researchers found that androgen deprivation therapy is associated with structural decay of cortical and trabecular bone in men with prostate cancer. The study used virtual bone biopsies to assess bone microarchitecture and found a link between testosterone deficiency and increased fracture risk.
A new study published in Archives of General Psychiatry found family-based treatment to be the most effective approach for treating anorexia nervosa. More than 50% of patients who received this type of treatment were in full remission after a year, compared to 23% of those who received individual therapy.
A retrospective cohort study of 983 women found that non-Hispanic black and Hispanic women experienced significantly longer diagnostic delays than white women, regardless of insurance status. Diagnostic delay times ranged from 11.9 to 70.8 days, with uninsured black women facing the longest waits.
Researchers found that Puerto Rican women with triple-negative breast cancer had a higher risk of death from breast cancer, even after adjusting for age and cancer stage. Women under 50 years old with regional/distant disease were also more likely to die from their breast cancer.
Data from a national survey reveals that nonwhite female cancer survivors receive significantly less social support than their white counterparts. The study suggests that this disparity may be linked to differences in engagement with moderate-intensity physical activity, which was found to be similar across racial groups.
A recent study found that patients without private health insurance had significantly poorer cancer survival rates compared to those with insurance. The study, which analyzed data from 178,891 patients, also found that African-American patients were twice as likely to die within four years of diagnosis.
African-American women with breast cancer experience longer delays in treatment compared to white women, even when controlling for socioeconomic status and insurance type. The study found that the time to treatment lags behind recommended guidelines by an average of 12 days.
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with a higher likelihood of aggressive breast cancer in African-American women. Vitamin D levels were found to be 29.8 ng/ml in white women and 19.3 ng/ml in African-American women.
Researchers found a significant correlation between low socioeconomic status and late-stage, non-localized colorectal cancer diagnoses. Participants from less deprived neighborhoods had a lower incidence rate of 16.2%, while those from more disadvantaged areas had a higher incidence rate of 19.8%.
Genetic tests are increasingly being offered directly to consumers in Puerto Rico, leading to higher awareness levels compared to previous U.S. population-based studies. However, the actual use of these tests is lower than expected, affecting specific groups such as smokers.
A group-based, holistic mind-body intervention was found to be equally effective in treating persistent fatigue and improving quality of life for breast cancer survivors across different racial groups. The program combined relaxation techniques, nutrition optimization, physical activity, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
A $1.5M NIH grant supports Manu Platt's project to develop models for identifying children at risk of stroke due to sickle cell disease. The goal is to create a mathematical model predicting stroke risk and allow for earlier intervention, improving treatment options.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have discovered a key protein factor, Ets1, involved in the progression of lung cancer. The study aims to identify new therapeutic targets to block tumor growth and metastasis, offering hope for improved patient outcomes.
Historians uncover previously unseen correspondence between Francis Crick and Maurice Wilkins, revealing a tangled web of ambition and institutional politics. The letters provide fresh insights into the personalities of the discoverers and their roles in the discovery of DNA's double helix structure.
A new blood test called AccuPSA can detect rising prostate specific antigen levels after radical prostatectomy, allowing for earlier detection of cancer recurrence. This test has the potential to eliminate unnecessary treatments and improve health care costs by enabling earlier treatment with potentially better outcomes.
Seth Field, a UC San Diego researcher, has been awarded $3.86 million to study GOLPH3's role in breast cancer. His project aims to understand the mechanism by which GOLPH3 contributes to cancer and develop new therapy targets.
Targeting c-Met shows promise in treating HCC patients with positive tumors, according to a study. c-Met is overexpressed in metastatic liver cancer cells, driving growth and invasion.
The Program for Fertility Preservation at Women & Infants Hospital offers fertility preservation options to young cancer survivors, including freezing ovarian tissue and eggs for future use. This experimental program aims to provide hope and promise of fertility to those affected by childhood cancer.
Researchers identified 79 microRNAs linked to bladder cancer, showing promise for early detection through existing laboratory tests. The new method measures microRNA presence or absence in bodily fluids with high accuracy, comparable to current gold standard testing.
The AAO-HNSF miniseminars discussed presbycusis, a growing concern for older adults with hearing loss. The researchers also presented new medullary thyroid cancer guidelines, highlighting the need for familiarity with unique diagnostic and treatment paradigms. Additionally, safety concerns in pediatric ambulatory surgery were emphasized.
A new analysis reveals that male partners of women with breast cancer are at a significantly higher risk of developing severe mood disorders requiring hospitalization. The study found a 39% increased risk of being hospitalized with an affective disorder among men whose partners had breast cancer, compared to those without.
A study analyzing Canadian data shows a decline in breast cancer incidence among postmenopausal women as hormone therapy prescriptions fell. The decline, which coincided with a drop in hormone replacement therapy use, suggests that HRT may be linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
A study found that breast cancer survivors with functional limitations affecting motion, strength, and dexterity are at risk of dying from other causes, but not breast cancer recurrence. The study highlights the importance of addressing physical limitations in cancer survivorship plans.
Researchers discover normal protein function, not cell buildup, causes muscle weakness and other symptoms of a rare neurodegenerative disease. The finding offers hope for treatment and a new model for understanding the mechanism at work in common nervous system disorders like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.
A new study published in The Lancet Oncology found that imatinib treatment interruption after 3 years results in rapid relapse and low progression-free survival. Patients who stopped treatment experienced significant tumour growth and poor overall survival, highlighting the need for continuous treatment to maintain cancer control.
Cells rapidly repair and maintain their structure when exposed to stress, thanks to a newly discovered protein called zyxin. This protein plays a crucial role in maintaining the cell's internal framework, or cytoskeleton, which is essential for cell function.
Researchers have discovered that an enzyme called NOX4 produces hydrogen peroxide after a stroke, leading to nerve cell death. Inhibiting this enzyme with a new drug reduces brain damage and preserves brain functions in mice with stroke.
Global cancer leaders call for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) to be included in the Millennium Development Goals to address the growing health issue. NCDs, responsible for 35 million deaths worldwide, face a lack of indicators and inadequate funding, with less than 2% of overseas development aid allocated to these diseases.
Scientists at Huntsman Cancer Institute link loss of Apc to DNA demethylase, a system that erases DNA methylation. This system stalls normal intestinal cell development, leading to stem cell-like cells. Inhibition of the demethylase restores normal development and provides new opportunities for colon cancer treatment.
Researchers found a possible link between successful gum-disease treatment and reduced preterm birth risk in pregnant women. Successful treatment was associated with lower inflammation levels, no increased probing depth, and loosening of teeth.
A study of 43,987 men aged 55-74 found that those with low PSA levels did not have a significant reduction in prostate cancer deaths. Men with high PSA levels benefited more from screening and treatment. The results suggest that aggressive follow-up testing and treatment may not be beneficial for men with low PSA values.
Researchers describe an indirect approach to reducing JAK2 activity by pharmacologically targeting HSP90. Inhibiting HSP90 normalized blood counts and improved survival in two mouse models of MPN, promoting JAK2 degradation in samples from patients with the disease.
Researchers discovered an indirect approach to reducing JAK2 activity by targeting HSP90, which stabilized JAK2. This treatment normalized blood counts and improved survival in mouse models of myeloproliferative neoplasms. Inhibiting c-Met also decreased mTOR signaling and blocked cyst formation in a mouse model of autosomal dominant p...
The special issue of Translational Research presents an in-depth view of stem cell research, considering its potential for therapy in various human diseases. Despite scientific and technical advancements, serious ethical concerns remain, including issues of privacy and consent.
A new risk prediction model for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in cancer patients has been developed, incorporating two new biomarkers. The model improves the classification of patients into different risk categories, with a significant increase in accurate predictions of VTE development.
Scientists warn of a global shortage of medical isotopes, used for diagnostic and treatment procedures, putting patient care at risk. The lack of these life-saving materials could lead to less accurate tests, higher radiation doses, and increased healthcare costs.
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine have discovered a major mechanism underlying the development of tolerance to chronic morphine treatment. They identified changes in the brain and spinal cord that occur during the development of morphine tolerance, providing a therapeutic target for preventing it.
The US Neurology guidelines provide a framework for diagnosing and treating infantile spasms, with a focus on early intervention and personalized treatment strategies. The consensus among experts is that broad clinical evaluation, vigabatrin or adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) as first-line treatment, and timely assessment of treatme...
A study found that oxygen therapy provides no additional benefit over regular air in relieving persistent breathlessness in patients with life-limiting illness. The researchers suggest less burdensome strategies should be considered for these patients.
A new study from Duke University Medical Center found that half of patients with advanced disease in palliative care settings don't benefit from oxygen therapy, and receiving pure oxygen or room air offers equal relief. The study suggests alternative methods, such as using a small fan, may be equally effective.
Researchers at Salk Institute discover a novel mechanism by which adenovirus disables p53 in infected cells, paving the way for targeted cancer therapies. The study reveals two key proteins, E1B-55K and E4-ORF3, that work together to neutralize p53's tumor suppressor function.
Scientists have created diseased liver cells from human skin samples to model a range of inherited disorders. The breakthrough could lead to personalized treatments and cell-based therapy for those suffering from liver diseases.
A global shortage of medical isotopes, used in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, poses a threat to patient care and may force doctors to use less accurate tests. The shortage is attributed to the unexpected shutdown of major isotope production facilities, leaving only 10-15% of isotopes produced domestically.
Researchers are investigating the effects of radiation on human bone strength to improve treatment for cancer patients with bone metastases. The study aims to establish the mechanical strength of bone before and after stereotactic radiosurgery, which has been shown to cause high fracture rates in post-treatment patients.
Researchers at Tufts University develop nanoparticles to deliver therapeutic genes to the retina, delaying onset of eye disease and preserving vision. The treatment, using a gene for GDNF, shows temporary but significant protection against photoreceptor cell death.
Researchers at SUNY Downstate Medical Center have identified proteins (Ligatin, MCT-1 and DENR) that can enhance the progression of viruses and cancer cells by promoting eIF2-independent translation initiation. This novel mechanism is a potential target for therapeutic inhibition to counteract viral infections.
A recent study published in JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that estrogen alone was not associated with increased lung cancer mortality among postmenopausal women. In contrast, combined hormone therapy showed a statistically significant increase in breast cancer incidence and a reduction in colorectal cancer.
Scientists have developed a new approach to deliver therapeutic genes into brain cancer cells, using chlorotoxin from deathstalker scorpion venom and nanoparticles of iron oxide. This method has shown promise in inducing nearly twice the amount of gene expression in brain cancer cells compared to traditional approaches.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have successfully treated children with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, a fatal skin disease, using bone marrow stem cell therapy. The treatment has shown promising results, increasing collagen production and improving skin resistance to blister formation.
A randomized controlled trial found that adding raltegravir to standard antiretroviral therapy had no effect on low-level viral load in HIV-positive individuals. The study suggests that residual viremia may be due to the release of HIV from stable reservoirs, requiring new therapeutic strategies to cure HIV infection.
Magnetic nanoparticles are injected into tumors to generate heat for cancer treatment. Magnetic relaxometry measures the relaxation of magnetic moments to determine particle quantity, allowing for selective tumor treatment.
The SPRINT-1 study found that adding boceprevir to standard hepatitis C treatment can significantly increase the response rate for genotype 1 patients. The addition of boceprevir to peginterferon and ribavirin regimens resulted in higher rates of sustained virological response compared to the control group.
A newly discovered molecular mechanism helps control the amount and effectiveness of a substance that mimics an active ingredient in marijuana. The study suggests that the enzyme ABHD6 plays a crucial role in degrading this substance, which is produced by the body's own nerve cells.
The Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center at UT Southwestern Medical Center has attained NCI designation, recognizing its innovative research and excellent patient care. The center will receive a $7.5 million support grant over five years to advance cancer research and provide patients access to promising new treatments.
A study of 342 early-stage lung cancer survivors found that nearly 60% experienced long-term dyspnea, with associated risk factors including reduced physical activity and depression. Targeting post-treatment rehabilitation strategies to improve breathlessness may be effective in improving outcomes.