Research on colorectal and bowel cancer. Covers AI-audited colonoscopy, gut-bacteria links, family risk, and early-onset differences.
A new study found that a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) is almost 100% accurate at ruling out bowel cancer in patients with suspicious symptoms. FIT has been shown to be as sensitive as colonoscopy, the current gold standard for detection of colorectal cancer.
Research reveals thymoquinone's ability to induce apoptosis and DNA damage in 5-Fluorouracil-resistant colorectal cancer, demonstrating its potential as a therapeutic agent. The compound targets CSCs enriched from both sensitive and resistant cell lines, suggesting a promising effect on chemoresistant cells.
The new guideline provides options for different treatments to improve survival rates and quality of life for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. Recommendations address patient selection, pelvic radiation treatments, integration with chemotherapy and surgery, and follow-up care.
A study of over 600 patients with colorectal cancer found that higher levels of T cells and greater diversity of T cell receptors are associated with better outcomes. The new biomarker, called TCR immuno-sequencing, measures the amount of infiltrated T lymphocytes and their clonality.
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have discovered a way to selectively kill aggressive cancer cells by blocking the construction of nuclear pore complexes. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for deadly tumors such as melanoma, leukemia, and colorectal cancer.
Kanneganti's research focuses on the innate immune system, inflammation, and cell death in health and disease, particularly in colorectal cancer. She aims to understand how innate immune pathways contribute to tumor development and improve cancer treatment strategies.
Researchers discovered that R-spondin treatment reduces intestinal tumor growth and promotes healthy epithelial cell function. The study suggests a new rationale for treating familial adenomatous polyposis patients with APC mutations.
A national survey found that many cancer patients lack nutritional advice and face difficulties such as diarrhoea, appetite loss, and changes in taste and smell. Researchers emphasize the importance of individualized guidance for improved quality of life and overall survival.
A phase 1 clinical trial of sotorasib (AMG 510) demonstrated anti-cancer activity in patients with heavily pretreated advanced solid tumors. Patients with non-small cell lung cancer had a 32% response rate and median progression-free survival of 6.3 months.
A large observational study found that patients who drank two to three cups of coffee per day had longer survival and a lower risk of cancer worsening compared to those who didn't drink coffee. The benefits held for both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee, but further research is needed to determine the causal connection.
Researchers found that moderate coffee drinkers had a lower risk of death from colorectal cancer compared to non-coffee drinkers. The study suggests that coffee's antioxidant properties may contribute to its potential health benefits for patients with the disease.
A team of scientists has unraveled the molecular basis underlying colorectal cancer by discovering how mutations in RNF43 activate the Wnt signaling pathway. This finding provides potential treatment options for certain types of colorectal cancer.
A study by Florida Atlantic University found that 28.6% of high-risk patients were unaware of the need for repeat colonoscopy or the proper surveillance interval. The researchers emphasize the importance of objective data and clinician sharing findings to improve patient care.
A new study by City of Hope researchers found that Black patients are less likely to receive chemotherapy and have a higher chance of death compared to white patients with advanced colorectal cancer. The study suggests that all patients with liver metastases should be evaluated for surgery, regardless of race.
A new hybrid signature based on DNA mutation and RNA expression patterns has been developed to predict the mutation status and survival of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. The model achieved high accuracy and was found to be prognostic for CRC patients.
The ESMO Virtual Congress 2020 showcased promising results in triple negative breast cancer, a new class myeloid specific antibody in solid cancer, and health-related quality of life data from a phase 3 immunotherapy study. Keynote lecturers discussed the impact of COVID-19 on patients, oncologists, and healthcare systems.
The BEACON CRC trial demonstrated a survival advantage for patients with chemo-refractory BRAF mutant CRC treated with the combination of BRAF inhibitor encorafenib and EGFR inhibitor cetuximab. PLX8394, a paradox-breaker BRAF inhibitor, showed comparable efficacy to encorafenib in reducing pathway reactivation.
A new study from Lund University found that PDE5 inhibitors can improve prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer. The study revealed a 18% lower risk of death and reduced metastases among men who used the drugs after diagnosis.
A McGill-led study unlocks the behavior of an enzyme involved in cancer cell spread, revealing a delicate interaction between PRL3 and magnesium transport proteins crucial to colorectal cancer growth. This finding calls into question long-standing hypotheses about PRL3's role in cancer spread.
A new model of screening combines better risk assessment, noninvasive testing options, and targeted referrals for colonoscopy to save more lives. The American Gastroenterological Association proposes a universal approach to screening that reaches more people and offers alternatives to colonoscopy.
A new study published in Epidemiology found that night-time exposure to outdoor artificial light, especially blue light, may increase the risk of colorectal cancer. The research analyzed data from over 2,000 adults and found a 60% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer among those with the highest exposures to blue light.
A novel function of spermine synthase (SMS) has been identified as facilitating colorectal cancer growth, with excessive accumulation of spermidine having harmful effects on cell viability. Combined inhibition of SMS and MYC signaling induces cancer cell death and tumor regression.
Researchers found that chronic inflammation alters cell evolution in the colon, leading to a higher mutation rate and increased risk of colorectal cancers. The study also uncovered evidence of positive selection of mutations in genes associated with immune system regulation and cancer susceptibility.
A study found that mailing colorectal cancer screening kits to Medicaid enrollees boosts screening rates by 23.2% and saves costs compared to a reminder-only approach. The mailed kit alternative requires an additional cost of $116 per person screened, but significantly improves screening in low-income populations at a reasonable cost.
A large study found that taking common hypertension medications such as ACE inhibitors and ARBs can lower the risk of developing colorectal cancer. The benefits were seen in patients over 55 and those with a history of colon polyps, but only for the first three years after a negative baseline colonoscopy.
The study reveals that low levels of MBNL1 protein are associated with poor overall survival in various common cancers. Blocking the JNK protein can reverse this mechanism, providing a potential biomarker for selecting patients for treatment. Researchers plan to investigate MBNL1's role in colorectal cancer and explore anti-JNK therapies.
Research uncovering a new mechanism causing colorectal cancer found that abnormal Zeb2 expression undermines the integrity of the intestinal wall, allowing infiltrating bacteria to cause inflammation. Removing the microbiota or modulating the immune system can prevent cancer development.
The Pew Charitable Trusts and Alexander and Margaret Stewart Trust have partnered to support early-career cancer researchers with four-year grants. The five selected scholars will investigate various cancer-related applications, including early detection methods and molecular connections.
A study published in The Lancet found that aspirin reduces colorectal cancer risk by half in genetically predisposed individuals, with preventive efficacy lasting 10-20 years. The CAPP2 trial showed that daily aspirin doses of 600mg reduced cancer risk compared to placebo.
Mutations in TP53 and concomitant mutant p53 proteins in cancer cells have been found to accelerate tumorigenesis and metastasis. The researchers found that the combination of gain of function mutations and loss of heterozygosity provides protection against cell death, promoting a fibrotic microenvironment and inflammation pathways.
A combination of fasting-mimicking diet and vitamin C has been found to delay tumor progression and even cause disease regression in multiple mouse models of colorectal cancer. The treatment works by regulating iron levels and molecular mechanisms involved in oxidative stress, making it a safer alternative to toxic treatments.
Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine have identified ST2 as a novel checkpoint molecule that could help T cells become more effective in fighting colorectal cancer. By targeting ST2-expressing macrophages, the researchers were able to slow tumor growth and boost T-cell activity.
The FDA has approved encorafenib in combination with cetuximab for patients with advanced BRAF-mutated colorectal cancer. This new treatment is the result of DNA-guided personalized cancer treatment research by the SU2C-Dutch Cancer Society team.
A study found that using family history-based guidelines to identify individuals for early screening could help detect young-onset colorectal cancer. Researchers analyzed data from adults with and without colorectal cancer and estimated the potential impact of these guidelines on early detection and prevention.
A large population study found a significant association between blood infections with anaerobic bacteria and an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. The study revealed that infections with specific bacteria, such as Clostridium septicum and Bacteroides ovatus, were linked to a substantial increased risk of CRC.
Researchers found that distinct microbiomes composed of different types of bacteria contribute to varying levels of colorectal cancer in genetically identical mice. The study suggests that certain bacteria promote inflammation and exhaust immune cells, increasing susceptibility to cancer.
A study of 950,000 cancer patients found differences in stage at diagnosis, therapy use, and overall survival by racial and ethnic groups. The analysis revealed disparities in cancer care across various ethnicities.
Researchers found that weight-loss surgery increased colorectal cancer risk by 20% and mortality rates among obese patients, highlighting the need for post-operative surveillance.
A doctors' group is suing California for neglecting to add processed meat, such as hot dogs and bacon, to the state's cancer-causing substances list under Proposition 65. This move comes after experts classified consumption of processed meat as carcinogenic to humans, increasing risks of colorectal, breast, prostate, pancreatic, and ov...
A recent study found an exponential increase in bowel cancer among adults under 50, driven by tumors of the lowermost portion of the bowel. The incidence has risen quickly in southern regions, particularly in the South West.
The burden of colorectal cancer is shifting to younger individuals, with incidence rates increasing in people under 50 and declining in older age groups. In 2020, there will be about 18,000 cases of CRC diagnosed in people under 50, equivalent to 49 new cases per day.
Researchers found that inhibiting IDO1 protein helps radiation destroy tumor cells while preserving healthy tissue. Combining radiation with the inhibitor increased cell death within tumors and improved protection of healthy tissue.
A study predicts a rise in cancer cases in Canada in 2020, with nearly 1 in 2 Canadians expected to receive a diagnosis. Lung cancer will be the leading cause of death, responsible for about 1 in 4 deaths from cancer.
In aggressive colorectal cancers, a structural framework called cancer-associated fibroblasts helps tumors evade the immune system by expressing high levels of CD73, an immune checkpoint enzyme. CAFs create a self-serving process that amplifies their own CD73 expression, suppressing immune responses.
A protein called interleukin 6 (IL-6) plays a significant role in the spread of colorectal cancer to other parts of the body, particularly the liver. Suppressing IL-6 expression can enhance anti-tumor immune functions and improve patient survival.
Researchers found that white patients received earlier treatment and had better survival rates than black patients, with hospitals having a significant impact on outcomes. The study suggests structural issues at the hospital level influence differences in cancer outcomes across racial groups.
Experts provide a timeline for patients to be rechecked for colorectal cancer based on their initial colonoscopy and recommend the safest techniques to completely remove polyps. Screening is recommended to begin at age 50, with follow-up colonoscopies every 3-10 years depending on polyp size and removal.
Researchers identified 34 patients with therapy-associated polyposis (TAP), developing colorectal growths despite not having a hereditary susceptibility. The study found TAP mimics familial polyposis but is biologically distinct, suggesting multiple biological pathways involved in its development.
A recent study reveals that cancers have already spread in a high percentage of people by the time recommended screening begins for colorectal cancer. The rate of colorectal cancer incidence increased significantly between ages 49 and 50, with 92.9% of diagnosed cases at age 50 being invasive.
A team of researchers at KAIST has discovered a novel approach to reprogram healthy colon cells into non-cancerous ones by reducing the activity of a master regulator protein called SETDB1. This method could lead to more effective and less painful cancer treatment options.
The study found that rates of new colorectal cancer cases increased substantially among individuals turning 50, indicating a shift in the disease's age distribution. This significant increase suggests that current screening age recommendations may need to be reevaluated.
Researchers found a significant spike in new colorectal cancer diagnoses between ages 49 and 50, indicating many latent cases were likely going undiagnosed until screening began. The majority of these cases (93%) were invasive, requiring aggressive treatment, including surgery.
A study published in Nature Metabolism reveals that serine racemase enhances the growth of colorectal cancer cells by producing pyruvate from serine. The research provides a novel target for anti-cancer therapies and shows promise in improving treatment efficacy.
Kaiser Permanente research reveals that post-menopausal women with colorectal cancer who have low social support are more likely to die from the disease or any cause. The study found a significant association between high levels of emotional, informational, tangible, and positive interactional support and lower mortality rates.
A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that the expansion of health insurance coverage in Massachusetts led to a 7% decline in advanced stage colorectal cancer diagnoses. This early diagnosis increase is attributed to increased access to screening and diagnostic services.
Researchers found that certain bacteria, including F. nuc and Moraxella osloensis, are more prevalent in younger patients' tumors than older patients', suggesting a potential link between gut bacteria and the rising incidence of colorectal cancer in people under 45.
Patients with ulcerative colitis have a significantly elevated risk of developing and dying of colorectal cancer, even with modern therapy. A large study found that these patients have a 66% higher chance of being diagnosed with colorectal cancer compared to the control group.
The American Cancer Society's annual report on cancer rates and trends shows a steady 26-year decline in overall cancer mortality, with long-term drops in lung, colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers. Lung cancer death rates have dropped by 51% since 1990, with the most rapid progress in recent years.
City of Hope scientists have found that aspirin appears to reduce tumor growth and inhibit recurrence of colorectal cancer. The right dosage of aspirin is being identified to act as a prophylactic without triggering dangerous side effects.
A new noninvasive diagnostic method using circulating tumor DNA can detect colorectal cancer in at-risk patients with high accuracy. The technology, developed by Huiyan Luo et al., uses methylation markers to identify patients with a sensitivity and specificity of 87.5% and 89.9%, respectively.