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Stopping the spread of cancer

Biomedical engineer Tara Deans receives $1.5 million grant to develop alternative platelets that can help stop tumor cells from spreading in the bloodstream. Her lab will engineer platelets with proteins that kill cancer cells, inspired by her friend's diagnosis with blood cancer.

A peek into lymph nodes

Researchers at Tohoku University developed a new imaging technique to detect tumors in lymph nodes before they grow too large. The technique uses x-ray microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) and contrast agents to map the movement of cancer cells within the lymphatic system.

SourceTohoku University·JournalMolecular Imaging and Biology·DateMar 14, 2019

The immune system's supercell -- how it matures

Researchers at Lund University have mapped the maturation process of natural killer cells, which play a key role in fighting cancer and infections. The study found that Notch signaling is essential for NK cell development and function, highlighting its potential as a target for immunotherapies.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateDec 13, 2018

Scientists discover new method of diagnosing cancer with malaria protein

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a new method to diagnose cancer at its early stages using a malaria protein. The method retrieves individual cancer cells from blood samples, catching them in greater numbers than existing methods, allowing for earlier detection and improved treatment outcomes.

ASCO & NEJM: AI plus ovarian suppression yields benefit in high-risk younger breast cancer patients

A new clinical trial analysis found that combining an aromatase inhibitor with ovarian function suppression yields a 10-15% improvement in freedom from distant recurrence for high-risk younger breast cancer patients. Women at low risk saw minimal benefit, while those at intermediate risk gained a 4-5% advantage.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 4, 2018

Study reveals that many oncologists recommend medical marijuana clinically despite not feeling sufficiently knowledgeable to do so

Researchers found that most oncologists discuss medical marijuana with patients and nearly half recommend it, but only 30% feel knowledgeable enough to make recommendations. The study suggests a discrepancy between attitudes and practices regarding medical marijuana's utility in oncology.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 10, 2018

CRISPR enhances cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at WashU Medicine used CRISPR to engineer human T cells that can attack human T cell cancers without succumbing to friendly fire. The new approach also allows for the use of therapeutic T cells from any healthy donor, eliminating the need for a matched donor or patient's own T cells.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalLeukemia·DateMar 6, 2018