The UVA Weber Symposium will discuss the latest research and advancements in metastasis, a complex area of cancer research and care. The event will bring together top scientists and physicians to present findings on cancer metastasis, genetics, and treatment considerations.
A retrospective cohort study of 50,802 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer found that younger patients (aged 45 and younger) had longer median disease-specific survival and a higher rate of 10-year survival compared to older patients. Younger patients were also more likely to have tumors in the left-sided colon and rectum, and a...
Researchers at MIT identified a cellular pathway necessary for colorectal cancer metastasis, controlled by protein YAP1, which promotes cell proliferation and migration. A high-fat diet triggers activation of this pathway, and drugs blocking ceramide production may help prevent metastasis.
Researchers have mapped cellular differences between two similar bowel diseases, identifying hidden immune activity that may explain why one carries a much higher risk of colon cancer. The study found that patients with PSC-associated IBD had a distinct microbiome and higher levels of immune activity even in the absence of inflammation.
Researchers found that the loss of the Y chromosome in healthy-seeming tissue can serve as an early indicator of cancer development. The study analyzed 1,000 tissue samples from 405 men and discovered that Y chromosome loss increased in normal tissue adjacent to tumors, particularly in organs like the colon, rectum, and esophagus.
UCF researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery on immune cells, focusing on transfer RNA (tRNA) as a pathway to treatments for cancers, infections, and autoimmune disorders. By modifying tRNA in T cells, the team aims to fine-tune immune responses to multiple diseases.
Researchers at CU Anschutz and Indiana University School of Medicine identified a biological process that explains how colorectal cancer can cause severe muscle and bone loss. Blocking the production of a protein called IGFBP1 helped preserve muscle and bone, improving muscle strength in laboratory and preclinical models.
Researchers found that active participation in colorectal cancer screening was associated with a 43% lower risk of dying from the disease, compared to just a 26% lower risk for those invited to screening. This study highlights the importance of taking part in colorectal cancer screening to save lives.
A new study discovered that an arginine-deficient diet stunts the production of MHC-1 protein, which alerts the immune system to dangers such as tumors or viral infections. Increasing arginine intake may improve immune function and potentially treat cancer and viral infections.
Researchers at Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute discovered that reduced BECLIN1 levels weaken the gut's protective barrier, leading to increased susceptibility to inflammation and disease. This finding may help explain why some people are more susceptible to gut inflammation and associated diseases.
The American Gastroenterological Association recommends colonoscopy as the strongest screening option for colorectal cancer due to its ability to detect early cancers and remove precancerous polyps. Stool tests are a reasonable alternative when colonoscopy is not available, but abnormal results must be followed by a colonoscopy.
The FDA has accepted Genentech's supplemental Biologic License Application for atezolizumab, supported by phase III ATOMIC trial results. The trial showed a 50% reduction in cancer recurrence or death and 86.3% disease-free survival rate.
A study of over 229,000 obese adults without diabetes found that weight loss drugs, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, were associated with a 41% decrease in the overall risk of developing obesity-related cancers. GLP-1 RAs also showed larger reductions in certain subgroups, including men and gynaecologic cancers.
A recent study published in Science Direct found that patients with detectable circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) benefit from chemotherapy, with a three-year relapse-free survival rate of 77 percent. The test can help identify patients who require more targeted treatment, potentially reducing the risk of recurrence.
The American Cancer Society has endorsed two new types of stool tests and recommends limiting the use of blood tests for colorectal cancer screening. The guidelines aim to encourage people to get screened while improving detection rates.
A new study found that an intervention increasing colorectal cancer screening had similar effects across Hispanic, non-Hispanic Black, and non-Hispanic White patients. Overall completion rates remained lower for Black patients despite the intervention.
Researchers from Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute presented various studies on cancer treatments, including the efficacy of lung cancer drug neladalkib and a psychosocial digital app for patients with multiple myeloma. An electronic frailty index was also used to identify high-risk older adults receiving CAR-T cell therapy.
A new preclinical study suggests that targeting tumor-specific inflammatory processes could enhance the efficacy of some anticancer therapies and prevent drug resistance. The researchers found that tumors treated with KRAS inhibitors often developed inflammation-related gene expression changes, which contributed to drug resistance.
A new study replicated patient- and sex-specific hallmarks of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in a human organ chip, identifying stromal fibroblasts as key drivers of inflammation, fibrosis, and enhanced cancer risk. The model also recapitulated the impact of pregnancy hormones on IBD severity in female patients.
Researchers found that a common asthma drug can help fight aggressive cancers by blocking the CysLTR1 molecule. The study used mouse models and human tissue samples to demonstrate its potential in treating triple-negative breast cancer and other tough tumors.
Researchers at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center presented several studies at ASCO 2026 exploring new treatment options for patients with advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) and melanoma. These include velzatinib, a targeted therapy for GIST patients, and PRAME-directed T-cell receptor therapies for synovial sarcoma.
The ERASur clinical trial is investigating whether total ablative therapy can improve overall survival in patients with newly diagnosed, limited metastatic colorectal cancer. The study has reached one-third patient accrual milestone, signaling strong momentum.
A randomized controlled trial found that a 1 L PEG-ascorbate regimen provided effective and high-quality bowel cleansing, while being associated with a greater willingness to repeat the regimen compared to 2 L and 4 L PEG regimens. The findings support adopting a low-volume regimen to improve completion rates and patient tolerability.
A study finds that rectal cancer mortality is increasing rapidly among adults under 45, with Hispanic and Western US populations experiencing the steepest rises. The study calls for earlier screening and increased awareness to combat this growing trend.
Colorectal cancer incidence is rising among young individuals in Switzerland, with cancers occurring before age 50 accounting for 6.1% of all cases. The study highlights the importance of awareness and earlier screening to address this trend.
Researchers found that sleep deprivation alters the composition of gut microbiota, leading to worse cancer progression and reduced effectiveness of chemotherapy. The study highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy microbiome through good sleep and diet.
A randomized trial found that duloxetine does not prevent painful neuropathy caused by oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with stage II or III colorectal cancer. The study suggests that duloxetine should only be used for managing existing neuropathy, not prevention.
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is enrolling adolescent and young adult cancer patients in various trials, including genetic services and treatment studies. These trials aim to address longstanding gaps in care and improve outcomes for AYAs with cancer.
Researchers at University of Liège develop mouse model to study Stard7's role in intestinal cancers, revealing protein's dual effects on tumour development. In some cases, Stard7 deficiency reduces tumour growth, while in others it accelerates it.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that adding immunotherapy to chemotherapy after surgery for patients with stage 3 (node-positive) colon cancer reduced cancer recurrence and mortality by 50% compared to chemotherapy alone. The study used an immune checkpoint inhibitor, atezolizumab, to reactivate a person's anti-tumor immunity.
A study in mice reveals that chronic intestinal inflammation can lead to epigenetic 'memories' that promote colon cancer. Researchers found that even seemingly healed gut tissues retain molecular scars from earlier inflammation, making it easier for cancer to take hold.
Researchers have developed a novel approach to fight colorectal cancer using modified Listeria bacteria as a courier to deliver potent cancer-killing proteins into tumor cells. This method has shown significant anti-tumor activity and could potentially lead to the development of a safe and effective oral treatment.
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is spotlighting new trials for colorectal cancer in March, focusing on early detection methods and treatments for treatment delays and loss of appetite. The trials aim to improve patient outcomes, with several enrolling patients with newly diagnosed colon or rectal cancer.
A new clinical study aims to improve communication between patients and families about genetic risks of colorectal cancer. The trial will compare two methods of sharing genetic test results with close relatives, with the goal of learning which approach helps more family members get necessary genetic testing.
The King Center for Lynch Syndrome will advance research, outreach, education, and patient care for Lynch syndrome, a hereditary condition affecting 1 in 279 individuals. The center will provide cutting-edge research, life-long comprehensive care, and increased awareness for patients and families affected by Lynch syndrome.
This study investigates the clinicopathologic features and genomic landscape of DNA polymerase epsilon mutant colorectal adenocarcinomas. The analysis reveals two distinct subgroups with different outcomes, suggesting improved prognostication for some patients.
A study by University of Texas at Dallas bioengineers found that both cancerous and noncancerous colon tissue from young patients with colorectal cancer was mechanically stiffer than in older patients. This stiffness may promote the development of early-onset colorectal cancer, a condition rising over the past 30 years.
A new analysis found that rural cancer patients treated locally have similar surgical outcomes to those who traveled to urban facilities. The study used Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results data from Medicare-eligible patients with lung or colon cancer, aged 65 or older, residing in rural areas.
Researchers developed an AI tool called ONCO-ACS to predict the risk of secondary heart attacks in cancer patients after a heart attack. The tool combines cancer-related factors with standard clinical data to provide reliable information for doctors to balance treatment benefits and harms.
Research reveals that higher lifetime alcohol consumption is associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer, especially for rectal cancer. Quitting drinking can lower a person’s risk, according to the findings published in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal.
Predictions for lung cancer death rates among EU and UK women indicate stabilization of mortality rates at 12.5 deaths per 100,000 in 2026. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death for both sexes in the EU, with mortality rates continuing to decline among men.
A new clinical trial, PAGODA, seeks to minimize treatment interruptions and help patients complete their chemotherapy as planned. The trial will test a structured plan to guide doctors in making small, proactive changes to chemotherapy doses to prevent treatment delays.
A new study found that bowel preparation procedures for colonoscopies can disrupt the gut environment, making mice more susceptible to infection and inflammation. The researchers hope to understand whether these procedures may put people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) at risk of exacerbation.
A recent study published in Gut journal revealed that Streptococcus anginosus produces methionine metabolites, which significantly contribute to the development of gastric cancer. The research opens new paths for microbiota-targeted prevention strategies.
Research from Florida Atlantic University strengthens evidence that alcohol consumption increases cancer risk, particularly for breast, colorectal, and liver cancers. Higher intake and specific groups, such as African Americans and those with obesity or diabetes, are found to be more vulnerable to the risks.
Scientists at Penn Vet have identified two genes, Ctnna1 and Bcl2l13, that suppress metastasis in preclinical models of colorectal cancer. These findings could lead to better treatments and therapies for patients with metastatic disease.
Researchers found that fewer than 1 in 4 eligible younger adults completed colorectal cancer screenings after the USPSTF lowered the recommended screening age to 45. Despite investigating unmet social needs, no significant differences were found in testing uptake for this early midlife cohort.
Researchers developed a new DNA analysis technique to study old genetic samples, shedding light on disease evolution and changes in biology over time. The approach has potential for unlocking the root causes underlying shifting landscapes of modern diseases.
A recent study published in Cancer Investigation found that GLP-1 receptor agonists significantly reduced the risk of death among colon cancer patients. The analysis of over 6,800 patients revealed a nearly 50% lower likelihood of death within five years compared to non-users.
A blood test detecting tiny fragments of cancer DNA can help tailor chemotherapy to individual patients with stage 3 colon cancer. The DYNAMIC-III study found that patients with low-risk levels had an 87% cancer-free rate three years after surgery, while those with high-risk levels had a much higher risk of recurrence.
The study found that using circulating tumor DNA to guide treatment resulted in fewer recurrences, hospitalizations, and treatment side effects among patients who tested negative for ctDNA. Patients with positive results did not see improved outcomes from escalated therapy.
Researchers from A*STAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology have identified two critical stem cell populations that drive colorectal cancer formation in different colon regions. The study reveals how NOX1 and NPY1R proteins mark distinct stem cell populations, providing new targets and models for developing region-specific cancer t...
Researchers at UCSF have discovered a novel combination of immunotherapies that can reprogram the immune environment of colon cancer tumors in the liver. This therapy often eliminated tumors entirely in preclinical models, showing promise for treating patients with advanced colorectal cancer.
Researchers found that rectal bleeding increases the odds of a colorectal cancer diagnosis by 8.5 times in patients under 50, highlighting the need for symptom-driven care and lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk. The study analyzed 443 patients and identified no family history as a factor in early-onset colorectal cancers.
Researchers identified a cellular mechanism that alters the gut microbiome in a way that promotes cancer. Long-chain fatty acids serve as food for certain bacteria, such as Desulfovibrio fairfieldensis, which multiply and displace other microbes.
Recent clinical trials demonstrate the potential benefits of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and immunotherapy in improving tumor response and surgical success for patients with locally advanced colon cancer. The approach also reduces the risk of recurrence and metastasis, increasing survival outcomes and decreasing cancer-related complications.
A randomized clinical trial shows that low-dose aspirin reduces the risk of recurrence by 55% in patients with colon and rectal cancer harboring a specific genetic mutation. Aspirin's anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects may be responsible for its therapeutic benefits.
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology will host a public webinar showcasing key findings from the 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting. Researchers will discuss latest information on colorectal, squamous cell, and renal cell cancers.
A new study found that providing personalized colorectal cancer risk information to patients and their health care providers did not improve screening rates for the deadly ailment. Colorectal cancer is the second-most common cause of death from cancer in the United States, claiming nearly 55,000 lives annually.
Researchers analyzed data from 33,183 individuals and found that minimally invasive approach was associated with lower complication risks compared to open surgery. This study suggests that expanded use of minimally invasive surgery in rural areas may help bridge the gap between rural and urban patients with colon cancer.