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Researchers find gene mutations lead to more aggressive colon cancer in African-Americans

Researchers discovered 15 gene mutations that contribute to more aggressive colon cancer in African-Americans, resulting in higher recurrence and metastasis rates. These findings explain the disparity in colorectal cancer rates and death rates between African-Americans and other groups.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 1, 2016

Discovery of a novel gene for hereditary colon cancer

Scientists have identified a rare genetic alteration in the MSH3 gene that is associated with a new form of hereditary colon cancer. The discovery has significant implications for diagnosis and treatment, as it offers a clear diagnosis for some cases of polyposis and allows for targeted surveillance and prevention.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 28, 2016

Walnuts may improve your colon health

Eating walnuts changes the gut microbiome in a way that suppresses colon cancer, with male mice developing 2.3 times fewer tumors when fed walnuts as part of a Western diet. This effect is likely due to walnut's anti-inflammatory properties and ability to promote a diverse gut flora.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateJun 2, 2016

'Molecular movie' opens door to new cancer treatments

A team of scientists has produced a structural movie showing the creation of S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe), a major methyl donor in the body that plays a role in some cancers. The research provides insight into how this enzyme synthesizes SAMe and highlights it as an excellent therapeutic target for cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2016

How gut inflammation sparks colon cancer

Researchers at Duke University have discovered that gut inflammation sparks colon cancer, with microRNA miR-34a playing a crucial role in controlling stem cell division. Elevated levels of miR-34a may serve as an early warning system for colon cancer, and its expression could be used to treat late-stage cancer.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 4, 2016

Turning down the volume on cancer

University of Oklahoma researchers discovered that chromosome instability is a key player in the development of colon cancer. By analyzing gene expression signatures and pathways, they found promising findings for new treatments and prevention strategies. The study's results bring excitement to the field of cancer research and may have...

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 1, 2016

Changing patient's position helps effectiveness of colonoscopy -- especially on one side

A study found that examining the right side of the colon while patients lie on their left side increases polyp and adenoma detection. This position change also improved distension of the colon, allowing for better visualization. The results suggest a more effective tool for ongoing surveillance and prevention.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateSep 10, 2015

Genetic biomarker may predict cancer patients' response to immunotherapy drug

Researchers identified a genetic biomarker that can predict which cancer patients will respond to immunotherapy drugs like pembrolizumab. Patients with mismatch repair gene defects showed improved responses to the treatment, offering hope for previously failed patients. Larger studies are needed to assess the potential for clinical use.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 29, 2015

Two-week international diet swap shows potential effects of food on colon cancer risk

A two-week international diet swap study found that changing from a Westernized to an African high-fiber, low-fat diet reduced biomarkers of cancer risk in both African-American and rural South African volunteers. Increasing fiber intake and reducing animal fat and proteins may help lower colon cancer risk.

Combining the old and new to kill cancer cells

A team of Singapore-based scientists identified a new signalling pathway regulating cancer internal diet. The therapy combines an old anti-malarial drug with CK1α inhibition, effectively treating colon and bladder cancers. Researchers hope to develop more potent inhibitors for this treatment.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 23, 2015