Research on new and better ways to treat cancer. Covers radiotherapy, targeted microdroplets, nerve-injury protection, drug combinations, and tumor models.
The study found that CellCept significantly reduced the risk of malignancy in patients following heart transplantation, with a 27% lower relative risk compared to azathioprine (AZA). The use of CellCept was also associated with a reduced risk of certain rare cancers, particularly skin cancer.
Researchers have found that blocking the action of the HFE gene can reduce anemia caused by chronic inflammation, providing a potential new treatment for patients. This breakthrough aims to alleviate the negative effects of withholding iron while preserving the body's natural defense mechanisms.
A new study published in Urology found that men taking AVODART for four years experienced a significant reduction in urinary symptoms and prostate volume, with an average symptom improvement of 6.1 points on the AUA-SI. Long-term treatment also resulted in low incidence of drug-related side effects.
A 10-year study found that laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer has the same prognosis as conventional surgery, with a 76% 5-year survival rate. The procedure resulted in shorter postoperative recovery times but longer surgery durations compared to conventional surgery.
A recent study has revealed a connection between FAP, a protein involved in tadpole tail resorption, and accelerated tumor growth in humans. Researchers found that producing high levels of FAP in the tumor microenvironment promotes cancer growth. The study also explores the potential use of antibodies to block FAP's action.
A Canadian study found that breast cancer patients who participated in clinical trials had a 60% lower risk of dying, compared to those who did not. Larger treatment centers also showed better survival rates, attributed to participation in research.
Scientists have discovered that breast cancer metastases have a strikingly similar genetic profile to their primary tumours. This breakthrough discovery could enable doctors to choose the best treatment for each patient based on their unique tumour characteristics.
The Journal of Clinical Oncology (JCO) will provide free online access to its archived research, including articles published from January 1999 to the present. This move aims to improve cancer care worldwide by increasing access to essential information.
Researchers have developed a gene expression profiling method that predicts clinical outcome in prostate cancer patients. The study's findings suggest that this approach can improve our ability to stratify patient populations and optimize disease treatment.
Patients with stage I disease experienced longer intervals than those with more advanced disease. A multidisciplinary approach could help reduce anxiety and mistrust by allowing sufficient time for information digestion and procedure recovery.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic developed a pretreatment test to identify patients at high risk for urinary tract difficulties after brachytherapy. The study found that 37% of high-risk patients developed some urinary difficulties, while 85% of low-risk patients did not experience problems.
The study, published in Pharmacological Reviews, reveals that activation of certain melanocortin receptors can modulate the inflammatory process, reducing major molecules involved. This discovery has implications for treating localized and systemic inflammatory disorders, including organ transplantation and chronic inflammatory diseases.
USC researchers have discovered a unique DNA structure linked to follicular lymphoma, the second-most common form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The fragile site on chromosome 18 is responsible for 4% of all cancers and leads to the translocation 14;18, making cancer cells invincible.
Researchers found ACR scores improved for symptom relief after 6 months with combination treatment, and remission occurred in 35% of patients compared to 16% and 13% with individual therapies. Combination therapy also showed a statistically significant improvement on joint erosion.
A study of 92 patient cases found that laparoscopy can diagnose abnormalities earlier, reducing the need for hormone therapy and in vitro fertilization. Women with painful menstrual periods, previous natural contraception use, or a history of pelvic disorders are at higher risk.
A recent finding reveals a frequent abnormal cellular event occurring in about half of all myeloma cases, identifying c-maf as an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. Inhibition of c-maf function blocks tumor formation in mice, suggesting its potential as a novel target for future therapies.
Researchers developed a novel tumor cell-specific therapy that restores p53 protein function in cancer cells. This approach eliminates tumors and increases animal survival by up to six times, offering promising implications for targeted therapies.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science recommends physicians consider risk factors and prevention options when prescribing hormone replacement therapy. Women with a high risk of chronic diseases may benefit from alternative treatments, while those with menopause-related symptoms may still be suitable candidates for HRT.
A new study presents promising results for acute stroke treatment using desmoteplase, a genetically engineered blood clot-dissolving protein. MRI techniques also play a crucial role in identifying patients who can benefit from this therapy.
A UK study estimates that diagnostic X-rays contribute to around 700 cancer cases annually in the UK, with similar but higher risks observed in other developed countries. The researchers emphasize the importance of avoiding unnecessary X-ray procedures and weighing benefits against risks for patients.
The American Academy of Family Physicians proposes a palliative care model for elderly patients, focusing on proactive and team-oriented care. The TLC model aims to relieve physical and emotional suffering throughout the aging process.
A review of 26 studies found that cancer patients enrolled in clinical trials did not have significantly better health outcomes compared to those not participating. The studies highlighted the importance of clinical trials in advancing treatment and improving options for patients with cancer.
A national survey found that most US adults believe routine cancer screening is 'almost always a good idea'. However, respondents also expressed concerns about the potential risks and harms of screening, including false positives and overtreatment. The study highlights the need for balanced information about cancer screening to inform ...
A traditional herbal medicine enhances bilirubin clearance by activating the nuclear receptor CAR, potentially improving pharmaceutical treatments for neonatal jaundice. Additionally, a viral cure for type 1 diabetes has been discovered, where infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus completely abolishes the diabetic process i...
The International HapMap Project aims to map the locations of representative tag SNPs in DNA samples from diverse populations. The project's results will increase the power and reduce the cost of future genetic association studies, significantly speeding up the discovery of genes involved in common diseases.
The report analyzes survival data from 23,000 children diagnosed between 1990 and 1994, showing significant differences in overall cancer survival rates. The Nordic countries had the highest survival figures for four major childhood tumor types, with an average five-year survival rate of 71.8% across all European countries.
A new urine-based test has been developed to detect kidney cancer, showing promising results in early diagnosis. The test identified gene changes in the urine of patients with kidney cancer that matched those found in tumor samples, indicating its potential as a diagnostic tool.
A new animal model of pancreatic cancer has been developed, which mimics both non-invasive and invasive forms of the disease. The study identified a unique protein signature in the blood of animals with precancerous lesions, offering potential for early detection and therapeutic targets.
A higher dose of Gleevec was found to lead to increased remission in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), with 28% of patients achieving complete molecular response after 18 months. The treatment showed improved results over time, with a significant reduction in disease progression.
The American Society of Hematology presents the 2003 Public Service Award to Sen. Dianne Feinstein for her leadership on medical research and patient care issues. ASH also awards Dr. Claude Lenfant with its first-ever Lifetime Service Award for his decades-long dedication to hematology research and training.
AstraZeneca scientists have discovered selective and potent inhibitors of Aurora kinase activity that may have potential application in human cancer treatment. New pre-clinical research presents a combination of vascular targeting agents with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors, showing greater anti-tumor activity than either agent alone.
A UCLA study has found that younger women with breast cancer often experience persistent energy loss and psychological difficulties, despite overall good quality of life. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to support these subgroups.
The new guidelines call for searches within the National Marrow Donor Program registry conducted by histocompatibility specialists, with patients HLA typed to a high degree of resolution. High-resolution HLA typing is essential for all transplant patients, and the guidelines encourage considering transplants even without a perfect match.
Researchers at the Beckman Laser Institute are developing a laser-based technology to detect and analyze tumors, providing detailed information on blood, fat, and water composition. The center aims to transform this cutting-edge science into a versatile tool for cancer research.
A new study by Georgetown University Medical Center researchers found that low-dose CT screenings can accelerate smoking cessation rates by 14%, significantly higher than the national average. This promising finding suggests it's never too late to treat nicotine dependence, and further research may lead to more effective interventions.
A multi-center study led by Fox Chase Cancer Center oncologist aims to develop an interactive internet-based tool to assess patient values and information needs, providing education on cancer treatment and communication skills training. The goal is to improve doctor-patient communication and patient satisfaction.
A new study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that black children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) can achieve high cure rates comparable to those of white children, contradicting previous clinical studies. The research suggests that personalized risk-directed therapy played a key role in overcoming disparities in t...
Researchers used DNA microarray technology to identify seven major subtypes of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia, including six known prognostic subtypes. This discovery enables more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans based on a patient's unique expression profile.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have developed a strategy using erythropoietin to enhance heart function and prevent cell death after ischemic injury. A novel protective effect of erythropoietin has been shown in the infarcted heart, demonstrating a therapeutic window of opportunity for acute protection and long-term pres...
A study published by the University of Pittsburgh found that hormone therapy has no benefit to postmenopausal women, even those at high risk of fracture. The research suggests that estrogen plus progestin increases bone mineral density but does not outweigh risks associated with breast cancer and heart disease.
A large-scale study from Massachusetts General Hospital finds radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to be the most effective treatment for osteoid osteoma, a type of benign bone tumor. RFA offers a high success rate and low complication rate, making it an attractive alternative to traditional surgery and medication.
The EU's new clinical trial directive may hinder international collaborations, leading to delays in cancer treatment development. This could result in patients being deprived of life-saving treatments, as the effectiveness of new drugs would be determined solely by pharmaceutical industry-sponsored research.
A new clinical trial led by Duke University aims to compare the efficacy of two pegylated interferon treatments for hepatitis C virus. The IDEAL trial will enroll 2,880 patients and determine which treatment results in a sustained viral response in the largest proportion of patients.
The study found that initiating Avonex treatment immediately after MS symptoms appeared reduced the development of clinically definite MS by 35% and relapses by 48% compared to delayed initiation. Early intervention also led to higher likelihood of being classified as clinically stable between years four and five.
The STEPS study evaluates the safety and efficacy of Spheramine, a cell therapy that produces levodopa to enhance dopamine production in the brain. The study aims to provide a new method for Parkinson's patients to achieve continuous control of motor function.
Researchers developed a powerful new method called ROMA to compare normal cell DNA with breast cancer DNA, revealing chromosomal amplifications and deletions involved in breast cancer. The study also found large copy number polymorphisms in healthy cells that may underlie human traits.
Researchers at the University of Houston are studying DNA transcription errors called bulges, which can lead to cancer. The team hopes to understand how these mistakes are recognized and repaired by the body's 'spellcheckers' to develop more effective cancer treatments.
Scientists have discovered that cells can adapt to survive without oxygen, a key finding that could lead to new treatments for cancer, heart attack, and stroke. Researchers are tracing the signaling pathways for cell injury and death, with hopes of identifying therapeutic tools to switch cellular behavior.
The University of Georgia has received a $6.7M grant to develop technologies for mapping the glycome of stem cell lines established by Bresagen. This research will lead to the isolation of specific nerve cells for Parkinson's treatment and new ways to diagnose and treat cancer.
The AACR-Gertrude B. Elion Cancer Research Award supports meritorious basic, translational, or clinical cancer research by a tenure-track scientist at an academic institution worldwide. Five Career Development Awards will be granted in 2004 to support research in various areas of cancer research.
Researchers found that hypnosis did not provide better pain relief compared to non-hypnotic treatments. The amount of pain relief experienced was largely due to participants' expectations from the therapy, according to the study's lead author.
A substantial increase in breast cancer risk is associated with combination hormone replacement therapy, particularly oestrogen-progestogen therapy. Current users of HRT have a 22% increased risk of death from breast cancer compared to never-users.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) is seeking nominations for its Professorship in Basic Cancer Research, which provides a $50,000 grant for research expenses. The AACR-NFCR Professorship was established to honor Franklin and Tamara Salisbury and support cutting-edge basic cancer research.
Researchers found that meclofenamic acid and flurbiprofen, a currently clinical-trialled drug for prostate and colon cancer, effectively decreased Abeta42 levels by targeting gamma-secretase. This provides promising avenues for Alzheimer's treatment and furthers understanding of how NSAIDs impact AD.
Early detection and treatment of allergies can prevent serious complications and modify the progression of pediatric allergies. A specific IgE blood test can accurately diagnose atopy and guide treatment, including avoidance therapy and medication.
Dr. Collier's pioneering research has led to significant advances in vaccine design and therapeutic development, with applications in anthrax treatment and cancer therapy.
Researchers identified 58 genes dissimilar between normal and left-sided tumor samples, and 118 between normal and right-sided tumor samples. The study provides new insights into why some patients respond to treatment while others do not.
The Lombardi Cancer Center will investigate how drinking affects breast cancer risk, focusing on estrogens, free radicals, and gene mutations. The center aims to improve public health recommendations and inform individual lifestyle choices.
Researchers found that MYC binds to the WRN gene promoter, activating WRN expression and promoting cellular senescence in tumor cells. This discovery suggests a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment by inhibiting WRN in MYC-induced tumor cells.
FDG PET demonstrates high accuracy for diagnosing infection and inflammation, with a sensitivity of 93% and specificity of 84%, according to a study analyzing 844 scans on 806 patients.