Research on new and better ways to treat cancer. Covers radiotherapy, targeted microdroplets, nerve-injury protection, drug combinations, and tumor models.
A new combination treatment of fludarabine plus cyclophosphamide significantly improves progression-free survival and response rates in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. The treatment also shows better quality of life compared to single-agent treatments, but may have more severe side effects.
Pawel Walewski, a health editor with Poland's biggest selling weekly magazine Polityka, has been awarded the European School of Oncology's Best Cancer Reporter Award for 2007. The award recognizes his outstanding cancer reporting and aims to promote better quality media coverage of cancer.
A new study has achieved four successful pregnancies using immature oocytes collected from unstimulated ovaries, matured in vitro, and then vitrified, marking a significant breakthrough in fertility preservation. The research has the potential to become an important option for patients with PCOS or those who cannot undergo ovarian stim...
Researchers at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center have identified a new oncogene, insulin-like growth factor binding protein 2 (IGFBP2), that contributes to the formation of two types of brain malignancies, astrocytoma and oligodendroglioma.
Experimental studies suggest that targeting angiogenesis with dopamine agonists and dendritic cell inhibitors may inhibit endometrial lesions and decrease cancer risk. Mouse models show reduced blood vessel formation and increased old blood vessels in treatment groups.
Researchers found that two proteins, HEF1 and Aurora A, control the temporary disappearance of cilia during normal cell division, leading to an untimely disassembly. This loss of cilia may contribute to cancer development by disrupting cellular response to environmental cues.
A study by University of Illinois Chicago researchers found that young adults who want to quit smoking are less likely to use evidence-based behavioral treatment. Only 4-5% of young adult smokers use any form of treatment, compared to 32% of older smokers.
Patients treated with bisphosphonates are at higher risk of jaw bone deterioration or infection. The use of intravenous bisphosphonates has been associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw or facial bones, a condition caused by poor blood supply to the area.
Researchers have made progress in treating neuroblastoma, a difficult pediatric cancer, with new approaches such as radioactive isotopes and targeted therapies. However, further understanding of the disease's precise biology is needed to guide optimal treatment choices.
UC Irvine scientists use mathematical theory to understand how cancer cells alter their genetic makeup, accelerating tumor growth. The study found that tumors thrive when unstable in early stages and become stable later on, providing insight into future cancer treatments.
Long-term steroid treatment decreases the risk of rheumatoid arthritis-related lymphoma, with benefits observed regardless of when treatment was started. The most pronounced protective effect was seen in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma subtype.
Preliminary results show that 59% of patients receiving certolizumab pegol 200mg plus methotrexate achieved a 20% improvement in symptoms after 24 weeks, compared to 14% for those taking methotrexate alone. The treatment combination also resulted in higher ACR70 responses and lower discontinuation rates due to adverse events.
Recent studies found a decline in Kaposi sarcoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma incidence among AIDS patients treated with HAART, associated with increased CD4 cell counts. Additionally, researchers identified the CCRK gene as potentially involved in glioblastoma multiforme development.
A new study has shown that long-term biologic treatment can significantly reduce disability in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, while maintaining a safe and effective profile. The analysis of over 2,000 patients demonstrates improvements in disability whilst safety was also sustained over the long-term.
ChemGenex's lead compound Ceflatonin demonstrates clinical activity against Gleevec-resistant CML patients with the T315I Bcr-Abl mutation. A significant reduction in T315I levels and complete disappearance of the mutation were observed, indicating a potential therapeutic alternative for these patients.
Researchers have identified a set of molecular markers that can distinguish between healthy and tumor blood vessels, paving the way for more selective anticancer therapeutics. The study reveals 13 genes selectively overexpressed in tumor blood vessels, offering new targets for developing safer therapies.
Researchers suggest targeting beta1-integrin to treat cancer by reducing tumour cell proliferation and inducing cellular senescence, potentially preventing metastases. Blocking this protein function in transgenic mice with pancreatic insulinomas resulted in tumour cells becoming senescent and unable to form new tumours.
Researchers at Rambam Health Care Campus in Israel have found that PET/CT imaging can accurately diagnose and localize vascular graft-related infections. The study shows promise as a single-step, noninvasive technique for complex patients, potentially sparing unnecessary high-risk operations.
The Revlimid data presented at ASCO demonstrates a greater one-year survival advantage for patients receiving low dose dexamethasone compared to those receiving the standard high dose of the steroid. In all age ranges, patients benefit from Revlimid with the low dose dexamethasone, showing improved survival rates.
Researchers found a widening disparity in life expectancy between white and black women with advanced breast cancer, with median survival rates differing by up to 8.8% over the last two decades. Socio-economic factors, such as access to healthcare and treatment options, are suspected to be contributing factors.
The partnership aims to create programs and provide grants that support tangible improvements in access to and delivery of cancer care, particularly for disparities and clinical trials. The initiative also focuses on solutions to the projected shortfalls of the oncology workforce and addresses the unique needs of cancer survivors.
New research shows that cigarette smoke can cause changes in the DNA sequence of sperm cells, altering the genetic composition of offspring. The study found that male mice exposed to cigarette smoke had higher rates of genetic mutations than non-smoking mice, with the duration of exposure increasing the likelihood of damage.
The Novo-TTF device has been shown to disrupt tumor growth by interfering with cell division of cancerous cells, causing them to stop proliferating and die off. In a pilot trial, 10 patients with recurring GBM experienced improved survival rates, with median overall survival doubling compared to historical data.
A Phase II clinical trial suggests that extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is effective in treating clinically active Crohn's disease, with a 50% response rate after 3 months of treatment. Patients who responded to ECP therapy experienced notable improvements in disease symptoms and signs within six weeks.
A new procedure using concentrated radio waves has been found to be safe and effective in treating abnormal cell growth in the esophagus, a precursor to cancer. The treatment, called radiofrequency ablation, destroys abnormal cells with fewer side effects than current methods.
Researchers at VCU Medical Center report nearly all patients with hepatitis C treated successfully have no detectable virus after seven years. The study validates the use of 'cure' to describe successful treatment, offering hope for those affected by the disease.
A study of over 500 women who survived breast cancer found that maintaining vigorous exercise levels significantly improved everyday functioning and reduced symptoms, while those who started exercising after diagnosis saw a positive impact on their quality of life
Researchers have developed targeted nanoparticles incorporating siRNA that can slow tumor growth without eliciting toxicities. The nanoparticles' structure and biological function are characterized using physicochemical and biological methods, offering insights into designing more effective carriers.
Researchers found a strong correlation between initial PSA levels and future diagnosis of advanced disease. Men with high PSA levels had a higher risk of developing advanced disease, emphasizing the importance of early testing.
Researchers found no association between lycopene and prostate cancer prevention, contrary to previous studies. A diet rich in beta-carotene, another antioxidant, was linked to an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
Researcher William Helferich reviews the science on soy and breast cancer, noting that some studies have yielded contradictory findings. He suggests that exposure to genistein before puberty may reduce breast tumor growth, but warns about the risks of using isoflavone supplements in midlife women.
A new study found that cancer survivors are more likely to attend support groups compared to people with other chronic conditions. However, few survivors receive referrals to such programs from their physicians. The study also revealed that predictors of use include female gender, Caucasian race, and symptoms of depression or anxiety.
The Burroughs Wellcome Fund has awarded $14 million to support the first class of physician-scientists through the Career Awards for Medical Scientists program. The recipients will receive career development funding to advance their research and transition into independent academic careers.
Researchers are developing a new type of particle accelerator that could lead to more effective cancer treatment, greener electricity, and reduced nuclear waste. The CONFORM* project aims to build a non-scaling fixed field alternating gradient (NS-FFAG) accelerator, which has the potential to be used in medical applications, renewable ...
A new study identified genetic markers that can distinguish between chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer, as well as predict patient outcomes. The discovery represents a significant advancement in cancer diagnostics and may lead to improved therapy options.
A study analyzing records from a large children's hospital found that the proportion of chronically ill young children dying in intensive care rose from 80% to 91% between 1997 and 2004. Many deaths occurred after the child had been treated elsewhere, suggesting that terminally ill children were still being actively treated.
Scientists at the University of Texas Medical Branch have discovered a cellular protein, PAK1, that interferes with hepatitis C virus replication. The finding may lead to new drug development to fight the virus, which affects approximately 170 million people worldwide.
A recent study by the University of Alberta highlights the need for improved reporting and surveillance to better understand the incidence of adverse events in children treated with spinal manipulation. Serious injuries, such as stroke and paraplegia, were found to be rare but warrant further investigation.
The Iris Cantor Chair will support a translational researcher in bringing laboratory discoveries to patient treatment. This endowed position aims to advance progress in fighting digestive cancers, which affect various organs worldwide.
A sharp decline in breast-cancer incidence in 2003, followed by relative stabilization, is attributed to the drop in hormone-replacement therapy among postmenopausal women. Researchers estimate a 44,000 fewer breast cancers over two years, with the reduction most evident in estrogen-receptor-positive tumors.
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts have found that nanoparticles can cause DNA damage in breast cancer cells, increasing the risk of cancer. The study suggests that smaller particles are more likely to enter cells and cause toxicity, highlighting the need for further research on nanoparticle safety.
A University of Tennessee researcher has been awarded a $296,000 Komen grant to conduct a groundbreaking study on treating depression in breast cancer patients using behavior therapy. The study aims to determine the effectiveness of two treatments: problem-solving therapy and brief behavior activation therapy.
A study found that breast cancer risk is associated with epigenetic changes related to racial group, smoking status, and infant and childhood size. Researchers analyzed DNA methylation patterns in a cohort of women born between 1959 and 1966, finding correlations between these factors and increased breast cancer susceptibility.
A study found that inhibiting the protein ATM can kill cancer cells with dysfunctional DNA repair pathways, offering hope for a new treatment. Additionally, researchers discovered that inhibiting the protein CaMKII can drive leukemic cells to mature and die, providing an alternative strategy for treating acute promyleocytic leukemia.
A study by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researchers found that inhibiting the ATM protein can kill tumor cells with dysfunctional DNA repair pathways. Individuals with one mutant copy of a key gene are also at increased risk of developing cancer, as their remaining gene becomes mutated in specific cell types.
Aflac has expanded its support for the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), providing funding for four young investigators in pediatric cancer research through the AACR-Aflac Career Development Award. The awards also enhance education for early-career scientists attending the AACR Annual Meeting.
Ambassador Nancy Brinker, founder of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, will receive a Centennial Medal for her sustained effort in fighting breast cancer. Lance Armstrong, cancer survivor and seven-time Tour De France winner, will be honored for his advocacy work.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) has awarded $1.275 million in grants to 18 promising cancer scientists. The career development awards and research fellowships support early-career scientists at various stages of their careers.
A mouse model has been developed to study the relationship between hypoxia and cancer progression in renal cell cancer. The researchers observed that Fh1-deficient mice developed clonal and proliferative renal cysts with characteristic overexpression of HIF, leading to renal failure.
A recent study found that one-third of ovarian cancer patients in the US fail to receive recommended comprehensive surgical treatment. Factors associated with undertreatment include age, race, and insurance status. The study highlights the need for increased access to specialized care from gynecologic oncologists.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago found that knocking down a specific RNA-binding protein can inhibit ovarian tumor cell growth and invasiveness. The study suggests this protein could be a new target for diagnosis or treatment of ovarian and other cancers.
Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine have identified two variants of the natural tumor suppressor enzyme PHLPP, which control three different disease pathways. The findings suggest that therapies targeting PHLPP1 could improve insulin regulation in diabetes, while therapies targeting PHLPP2 could enhance cell survival in heart and ne...
A detectable PSA level is first indicator of recurrent prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy, with a doubling time of less than three months indicating imminent death from prostate cancer. Patients with longer doubling times are at significant risk for disease recurrence and cancer-specific death.
A new study led by the University of Georgia finds that older breast cancer survivors experience persistent physical and emotional challenges, with reduced quality of life. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve well-being among this population.
Immunology researchers at Jefferson University have found that blood-brain barrier damage correlates with multiple sclerosis (MS) severity. The study used mice models and found that permeability changes are critical in disease development, with even mice lacking immune system components able to develop disease.
New study finds that PSA measurement is associated with prostate cancer prognosis but poorly predicts lethal cancer. Researchers emphasize the need for improved surveillance strategies to identify life-threatening tumors.
Danishefsky's work has provided major fundamental advances in organic synthesis and impacted the treatment of cancer, with novel compounds currently in clinical trials. He is recognized as one of the world's leading chemists and a celebrated researcher, with numerous awards and honors including the Wolf Prize in Chemistry.
The Wesley Research Institute Tissue Bank has collected its first batches of cancer tissue, providing a valuable resource for researchers to study the cause, progression, and potential treatment of cancer. This step forward in cancer research is expected to lead to significant advancements in diagnosis and treatment.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) established a new lecture in honor of Princess Takamatsu, recognizing Webster K. Cavenee's groundbreaking research on genetic mechanisms of cancer predisposition. Cavenee will present his inaugural lecture on April 17, highlighting the importance of collaborations in cancer research.
Researchers identify PGC-1alpha as a key genetic component and potential therapeutic target for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Experimental elevation of PGC-1alpha improves DMD symptoms in mouse models, offering new therapeutic promise.