Articles tagged with Radiation Therapy
Researchers at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center discover polyploid giant cancer cells can lead to disease recurrence after chemotherapy or radiotherapy. They found that targeting these 'monster cells' could prevent tumor relapse, and potential therapies like tamoxifen and statins may also be effective.
Researchers aim to develop FLASH radiotherapy for treating skin cancer, rectal cancer and sarcomas with fewer side effects and less damage to healthy tissues. The project focuses on calibrating equipment and conducting lab studies to apply the technique safely and effectively in clinical settings.
The updated clinical guideline recommends multiple dose-fractionation schemes to relieve pain and symptoms of bone and spine lesions. Advanced radiation techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) are now routine clinical care for many patients.
Researchers have identified collagen features as valuable biomarkers for evaluating melanoma immunotherapy response. Single-fiber characteristics were found to be more sensitive to treatment-induced changes than bulk collagen features, offering insights into collagen remodeling over time.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology's (ASTRO) 66th Annual Meeting will be held in Washington, D.C., featuring over 170 exhibitors showcasing state-of-the-art cancer care technologies. Registered attendees can access livestreams of scientific and educational sessions, both in-person and virtually.
The HZDR team has made a significant advance in laser plasma acceleration, achieving energies of up to 150 MeV for protons. This breakthrough opens up promising applications in medicine and materials science, including new radiobiological concepts for tumor treatment.
Men with prostate cancer who listened to mindfulness audio recordings during radiation therapy experienced significant reductions in fatigue, sleep problems, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. The study found that the mindfulness intervention was more effective than listening to relaxing music during treatment.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center presented abstracts on new potential drugs and targets for treating various types of cancer. A study found that a brain-permeable drug called AM-101 sensitizes brain metastatic tumors to radiation, improving survival in preclinical animal models.
Researchers from Penn Medicine will share data on the latest advances in cancer science and medicine, including novel targets in the tumor microenvironment and the influence of the microbiome on cancer therapy. The presentation is part of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2024.
A new study suggests that tailored treatment can predict the response of breast cancer patients to chemotherapy, allowing for safe omission of extensive lymph node removal. The MARI protocol showed a 95% overall survival rate and 89% disease-free survival rate in patients who achieved pathological complete response.
A new AI tool can predict which breast cancer patients are at risk of chronic arm swelling after surgery and radiotherapy. The tool, developed by international researchers, uses machine learning algorithms to analyze patient data and provides easily understandable explanations for doctors and patients.
Researchers found that young breast cancer patients who received a low-dose radiotherapy boost had a lower risk of local recurrence after 10 years, with only 4.4% experiencing recurrence. In contrast, high-dose boosts resulted in fewer recurrences but also more severe fibrosis and cosmetic issues.
A new acceptable practice standard for hypofractionated post-prostatectomy radiotherapy has been established based on the NRG Oncology trial findings. The study showed that HYPORT was non-inferior to COPORT in terms of late GI or GU toxicity, with greater short-term GI toxicity associated with HYPORT but resolving at 6 months following...
A combination of short-course hormonal therapy and stereotactic body radiation therapy has been shown to be safe and effective in treating metastatic prostate cancer. In a preliminary study, 50% of patients remained recurrence-free six months after treatment, with less than a quarter experiencing severe side effects.
A high-impact study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of relugolix in conjunction with radiation therapy for localized and advanced prostate cancer, achieving rapid castration and maintaining low testosterone levels. The study also shows no difference between relugolix and leuprolide in time to castration-resistant prostate cancer.
A new study reveals that MAGE family proteins bind to RAD18 using a groove, preventing its degradation and contributing to cancer progression. The findings also suggest that blocking this interaction could lead to re-sensitization of cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Seven high-impact studies will be showcased, exploring novel therapies and improving treatment outcomes for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. These findings highlight advancements in immunotherapy, risk-directed adjuvant therapy, and FDG-PET-based selective de-escalation of radiotherapy.
Two new studies reveal that UK cancer patients face long waits for chemotherapy and radiotherapy, leading to poorer outcomes. The research highlights the need for a strategic approach to addressing treatment variation and improving cancer services in the UK.
Researchers at UT Health Science Center, in collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, will develop new radiopharmaceutical therapies to treat cancer. The team aims to advance precision cancer treatment using targeted alpha-emitting radioisotope constructs.
A new computer model of a human lung is being used to simulate the interaction of radiation with lung tissue at a cellular level. This could lead to more targeted treatments for cancer and reduce damage caused by radiotherapy.
Korea University researchers found that perioperative radiotherapy significantly improves survival rates among HCC patients at high risk of recurrence. The study suggests that radiotherapy can reduce recurrence and improve survival in these patients, providing a significant adjuvant treatment option.
Researchers developed a molecular predictor of radiation response using cell line data and machine learning-based approaches, capturing a wider range of biological processes. The new gene signature has the potential to aid decision-making, personalize treatments, and improve outcomes for various types of cancers.
Researchers explore the use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) compounds for treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and improving sensitivity to radiation therapy for lung cancer. TCM compounds, such as oridonin and ginsenoside Rg5, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects and radiosensitizing properties.
A new study found that Black patients were more likely to choose active surveillance, while those with a strong desire for a cure or expecting longer life with treatment were less likely. Education and urologist interventions can increase active surveillance adoption among low-risk prostate cancer patients.
Researchers identified gartisertib as a potent ATR inhibitor that enhances cell death in patient-derived glioblastoma cell lines. The study also showed synergy between gartisertib and TMZ+RT treatment, with higher sensitivity to gartisertib observed in MGMT promoter unmethylated cells.
Researchers found a combination treatment involving high doses of radiation and chemotherapy to be safe and effective in treating locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer. The treatment, which includes an adaptive boost plan, showed promising results in improving progression-free survival and reducing toxic side effects.
A new study found that patients treated at community cancer centers have poorer survival rates compared to those at academic medical centers. The study analyzed data from over 20,000 patients with HPV-related oropharyngeal squamous cell cancers.
Researchers discovered a novel therapeutic target BAMBI that suppresses immune cells, reducing the effectiveness of radiation therapy and inducing therapy resistance in cancer patients. BAMBI's expression is associated with improved survival rates, suggesting it as a promising approach to overcome radiation therapy resistance.
Researchers at INRS's Advanced Laser Light Source Laboratory have discovered that ultrafast lasers can accelerate electrons to MeV ranges, opening the door to more effective use of radiation therapy in oncology. This breakthrough has major implications for medical physics and could lead to better cancer treatments.
A clinical trial found that using MRI and a DCIS gene profile can guide treatment decisions for patients with low-risk ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Patients who received a score lower than 39 were considered low-risk and could safely forego adjuvant radiotherapy, with similar rates of disease recurrence compared to those with high-...
A five-year follow-up study found that younger postmenopausal patients with stage I hormone receptor-positive breast cancer who opt out of adjuvant radiotherapy have a very low risk of disease recurrence. The study suggests that this option may be safely offered to women in this age group, but longer-term follow-up is needed.
Scientists at Tokyo Tech developed self-folding polymers to create smaller, safer gadolinium-based contrast agents for cancer diagnosis and neutron capture radiotherapy. These nanosized complexes show enhanced tumor accumulation and penetration, reducing toxicity while increasing MRI performance.
Outdated medical tools cause delayed recognition and management of adverse reactions in patients of color, leading to significant distress. A more inclusive approach is urgently needed to address structural racism in radiotherapy treatment and education.
A study published in Med suggests that low-dose radiation therapy can improve heart function by reducing inflammatory immune cells and scar tissue in the heart. Researchers found improved pumping capacity and increased survival of mice with heart failure after receiving radiation therapy.
Researchers developed a new radiation therapy approach combining a sensitizing drug with stereotactic body radiation therapy, resulting in higher progression-free survival and overall response rates. The treatment reduced toxicity while increasing its effectiveness in treating locally advanced pancreatic cancer.
The University of Cincinnati is conducting a clinical trial to test the safety and effectiveness of lattice therapy, a method of delivering radiation that targets specific areas of tumors. The trial aims to enroll 37 adult patients and analyze the underlying biology of tumor and immune responses to lattice therapy radiation.
Researchers from The University of Texas at Austin have demonstrated a compact particle accelerator that produces an electron beam with an energy of 10 billion electron volts (10 GeV) in a chamber less than 20 meters long. The breakthrough uses nanoparticles to boost the energy delivered to electrons, enabling new applications in semic...
Researchers found that cancer cells are more vulnerable to radiotherapy when using the less common 'YC' first-base-cytosine site instead of the usual 'YR' adenine or guanine start sites. This discovery enables further understanding of gene regulation in cancers and potential targets for treatment.
Researchers identified a correlation between the HSD3B1 biomarker and resistance to combined hormone therapy and radiotherapy in men with prostate cancer. The study found that high levels of the enzyme led to increased testosterone production, promoting resistance to treatment.
A new ASTRO clinical guideline recommends partial breast irradiation as a viable alternative to whole breast radiation for patients with early-stage invasive breast cancer or DCIS, based on evidence from large randomized trials. The guideline provides guidance on patient selection and best practices for delivering effective partial bre...
Patients with breast cancer in conflict zones face significant barriers to treatment, including lack of standard procedures and funding for rebuilding capacity. This results in many patients being diagnosed with advanced breast cancer, often with limited palliative care options.
A specific nucleotide metabolite called GTP controls responses to radiation and chemotherapy in an unexpected way. Increasing GTP levels makes cells resistant to treatment, while lowering them makes cells more sensitive.
Researchers have discovered a novel biomarker that enables the evaluation of near-infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) treatment success. The biomarker uses microbubbles to track tumor vessels and measure the effectiveness of NIR-PIT, which combines antibodies and near-infrared light to destroy cancer cells.
Researchers discovered that lactate-producing intratumoral bacteria drives resistance to radiation therapy. Cancer cells respond to radiation by rewiring metabolic signaling pathways using lactic acid instead of glucose.
A simple MRI scan and a new metric for prostatic urethra length may help identify men at risk of chronic urinary side effects after radiation therapy. The study found that longer prostatic urethras are associated with a higher likelihood of these symptoms, which can impact quality of life.
Researchers developed a human in vitro model of radiation-induced lung injury, closely mimicking the complexities of the disease. The Human Lung Alveolus Chip recapitulates hallmarks of RILI, including DNA damage, inflammation, and injury to lung cells and blood vessels.
A new study published in JNCCN found that intensive local-regional treatment to remove as much tumor as possible did not significantly impact overall quality of life for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. However, the treatment was associated with a higher risk of adverse events.
Researchers identified YB-1 as an attractive therapeutic target for pleural mesothelioma, a cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Indirect targeting of YB-1 via histone deacetylase inhibitors showed promise in enhancing chemo- and radiotherapy sensitivity.
Researchers discovered the STAT3 signaling pathway as a potential target for treating H3K27M-mutant diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs), a uniformly lethal central nervous system malignancy. The current standard of care, including palliative radiation and chemotherapy, remains ineffective in this disease.
A new method was developed to predict organ motion in cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy, utilizing cross-sectional images from three orientations. The results showed improved accuracy when analyzing all three directions, with errors reduced to as low as 2.13mm.
Researchers from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center presented new findings on radiation-induced secondary cancers, a new guidance system for radiation therapy, and the consequences of insurance denials. The studies aimed to improve personalized treatment decisions for patients with rare cancer syndromes like Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
Researchers found that relying on existing diagnostic CT scans instead of new ones for simple palliative radiation treatments reduced patient wait times from nearly five hours to under 30 minutes. This novel workflow can improve the patient experience and reduce costs, making it a promising approach for expedited care.
A novel liquid biopsy test identifies levels of circulating tumor DNA as a more precise measure of disease burden than the number of tumors themselves. Patients with lower levels of detectable ctDNA are more likely to benefit from radiation therapy.
A new study found that a shorter radiation treatment course is just as effective as a longer schedule for patients with non-HPV-related locally advanced disease. Delivering fewer, but higher doses of radiation was associated with similar tumor control and late-term side effects.
Two liquid biopsy tests identified patients with a high risk of cervical cancer recurrence after chemoradiation treatment, allowing for earlier detection and potential improvement in outcomes. The tests detected HPV ctDNA in the blood of patients with residual disease, providing insight before tissue biopsy becomes possible.
A multi-center study found that stereotactic body radiotherapy (SABR) can achieve 100% local control and cancer-specific survival for longer than three years among patients with inoperable kidney cancer. The treatment was effective in preserving kidney function, with only one patient requiring dialysis.
A new study found that precision medicine navigators can significantly increase genomic testing rates for Black patients with prostate cancer. Genomic testing is used to gauge the likelihood of cancer metastasis and has been shown to be more accurate than traditional tests in predicting treatment outcomes.
A randomized study shows that shorter radiation therapy courses are just as effective in preventing cancer return and reducing side effects for patients with breast reconstruction. The accelerated treatment regimen saved patients time, money, and experienced fewer treatment breaks.
Researchers found a shorter course of radiation therapy provides equivalent protection against breast cancer recurrence and physical side-effects, but reduces life disruption and financial burden. Patients reported less burden on their time and finances, with improved quality of life.
Patients who engage in regular sexual activity or vaginal dilation have a lower risk of long-term side effects, including vaginal stenosis. Regular dilation and/or sex were associated with lower risk of moderate-grade vaginal shortening and narrowing five years after treatment.