Research on colorectal and bowel cancer. Covers AI-audited colonoscopy, gut-bacteria links, family risk, and early-onset differences.
A recent analysis found that rates of colorectal cancer diagnoses dropped during Hurricanes Irma and Maria and the COVID-19 pandemic in Puerto Rico, but late-stage diagnoses eventually exceeded expectations. Limited access to cancer screening services due to these disasters likely hindered timely CRC diagnoses.
The study found an increase in pancreatic adenocarcinoma among all age groups, while a notable rise was observed in colorectal adenocarcinoma among younger patients. This trend highlights the importance of early detection and evaluation for clinicians when evaluating patients with relevant symptoms.
The study directly compared Droplet-based scRNA (D-scRNA) and Picowell-based scRNA (P-scRNA) platforms for analyzing human mucosal biopsies. D-scRNA provides more detailed insights, but requires resources and may introduce contamination. P-scRNA is gentler, more resource-efficient, but less effective in capturing rare cell types.
A Rice University-led team developed an implantable 'cytokine factory' that triggers potent immune responses against hard-to-treat cancers. The IL-12 cytokine factory successfully induces the recruitment of tumor-targeting T cells, eliminating local and distal tumors in preclinical models.
A new survey finds that eating hot dogs at baseball stadiums is common, but many people are unaware of the health risks associated with consuming processed meat. The survey found that tens of millions of Americans could eat hot dogs this baseball season, increasing their risk of colorectal cancer and other diseases.
A new study by Mass General Brigham researchers reveals that many eligible patients who receive other preventative screenings are not getting screened for lung cancer. The study found that 65% of those eligible received breast and colorectal cancer screening, a nearly 4-fold higher rate than lung cancer screening.
A study found that patient navigators significantly improved one-year follow-up colonoscopy completion rates by 12% and reduced time to follow-up by 27 days. The researchers emphasize the importance of timely follow-up colonoscopies for patients with abnormal stool test results.
Researchers developed a tiny magnetic robot that can take 3D scans from deep within the body, enabling 'virtual biopsies' for non-invasive cancer diagnosis and treatment. The device uses high-frequency imaging to create detailed 3D reconstructions, allowing clinicians to diagnose and treat colorectal cancer in a single procedure.
Recent studies by Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University School of Medicine found a sharp decline in colorectal cancer screening trends during the pandemic, followed by a rapid rebound. The impact was more pronounced on non-invasive testing, such as fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) and FIT/DNA tests, which declined but recovered ...
CU Cancer Center researchers discovered that H3K36 methylation regulates plasticity and regeneration in intestinal cells. The process, identified as a key 'switch', allows intestinal cells to regenerate after injury. This finding may lead to better treatments for colorectal cancer and other intestinal conditions.
A recent study has found that people diagnosed with colorectal cancer are more likely to die from cardiovascular causes, particularly in the first two years after diagnosis. The study analyzed data from over 630,000 US adults and found a 16% increased risk of cardiovascular mortality among those with colorectal cancer.
The study of 19,000 patients shows immune checkpoint inhibitors greatly improved survival rates for those living with MSI-H colorectal cancer. Researchers found factors that may improve therapy's effectiveness against MSS tumors under certain conditions.
A new clinical guideline from the American Gastroenterological Association suggests that artificial intelligence-assisted colonoscopy may improve polyp detection rates, but its impact on preventing colorectal cancer remains uncertain. The guideline recommends a cautious approach to widespread adoption, emphasizing the need for further ...
Researchers identify SPP1+ macrophages as critical in CRC development and metastasis, promoting EMT, hypoxia, glycolysis, and immunosuppression. Preoperative chemotherapy reduces SPP1 expression, highlighting a potential role in immunotherapy.
The ASCOLT trial found that aspirin does not statistically improve disease-free survival for all patients but demonstrates a consistent trend of improving overall and disease-free survival. Aspirin taken for up to 3 years is efficacious in patients with PIK3CA mutation, reducing recurrence by over 50%.
Researchers identified fibronectin and smooth muscle actin as associated with resistance to immunotherapy treatment. Cancer-associated fibroblasts produce these proteins, which contribute to the suppression of the anti-tumor immune response.
Researchers at the University of Texas at El Paso have developed a portable, blood-based device that can detect colon cancer using a biomarker called CCSP-2. The device has the potential to provide early detection and treatment options for this second-deadliest US cancer, making it a significant advancement in colorectal cancer screening.
Breast cancer death rates are predicted to increase in EU patients aged 80 years and older, while falling in all other age groups. This is attributed to a lack of regular screening and access to modern treatments.
Researchers found that aspirin prevents cancers from spreading by decreasing a clotting factor called thromboxane A2 and releasing T cells from suppression. This discovery could lead to the development of targeted treatments to prevent cancer metastasis, making aspirin potentially less expensive than antibody-based therapies.
Breast and colorectal cancer screening rates have recovered from pandemic-related declines, surpassing pre-pandemic estimates. Cervical cancer screening rates remain below pre-pandemic levels, indicating a persistent trend of declining early-stage diagnoses.
The updated recommendations from the US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer aim to achieve a benchmark of 90% exams with adequate bowel preparation. The guidelines focus on optimizing bowel preparation before, during, and after colonoscopy, including patient education, dietary restrictions, and choice of preparation agent.
Researchers from the University of Toronto have shown that a low-carb diet can worsen the DNA-damaging effects of certain gut microbes, increasing the risk of colorectal cancer. A unique strain of E. coli bacteria was found to drive polyp growth in the colon when paired with a low-carb diet.
Researchers identified co-occurring genetic alterations in colorectal and pancreatic cancers that contribute to resistance to KRAS G12C inhibitors. These mutations can lead to poor prognosis and chemotherapy resistance.
Researchers developed a risk-prediction model based on four factors: family history, body mass index, sex, and smoking. A score equal to or greater than 9 indicates an above 14% likelihood of developing cancer or advanced precancerous lesions in adults under 45.
A nationwide study found that patients with alcoholic liver disease have a significantly higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. The study highlights the importance of comprehensive CRC screening and risk stratification based on new consensus-based definitions of liver disease.
Researchers have discovered lipid signatures associated with chemotherapy-resistant cells in colorectal cancer. These lipid alterations can serve as prognostic markers and help develop new treatment strategies to restore drug sensitivity.
Insilico Medicine has discovered a potent and selective CDK12/13 dual inhibitor, compound 12b, using AI-powered platforms. The compound shows significant efficacy in breast cancer and AML models without inducing side effects, paving the way for further therapeutic development.
Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of mortality in China due to late-stage diagnosis. Emerging non-invasive diagnostic tests, innovative imaging techniques, and AI applications enhance CRC detection and diagnosis. However, expanding accessibility and promoting public awareness remain key challenges.
Researchers have discovered several novel downstream p53 targets that could lead to improved cancer therapies. The study highlights the critical role of p53 in preventing cancer and identifies two new genes, ALDH3A1 and NECTIN4, as potential targets for cancer treatment.
Researchers found that a combination of Panitumumab and low-dose Capecitabine is an effective and well-tolerated maintenance regimen for patients with wild-type KRAS metastatic colorectal cancer. The treatment delayed disease progression while managing side effects, improving patients' quality of life.
Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a novel drug delivery system that uses nanoparticles to target and kill colorectal cancer cells. The system, which involves encapsulating cancer cell-activated nanoconjugates in an alginate matrix, can selectively deliver drugs to tumor cells while minimizing side effects.
The Colorectal Cancer Alliance has awarded new grants to researchers, convened top scientists at the Cure CRC Summit, and launched K-SPY, a groundbreaking multi-center platform trial for high-risk colorectal cancer cases. The initiative aims to improve outcomes for millions affected by the disease.
Researchers found that long-term yogurt intake was associated with lower rates of proximal colon cancer positive for Bifidobacterium, a bacterial species found in yogurt. The study showed that higher yogurt consumption over time may protect against colorectal cancer through changes in the gut microbiome.
The study analyzed 63 tumor samples from 10 common malignancies, revealing how malignant cells specialize in growing tumors and non-cancer cells contribute to the immune system's suppression. The findings suggest a hierarchical structure of tumors with specific hallmark expression patterns.
A phase 2 clinical trial found that a combination of two HER2 inhibitors was more effective and better tolerated than standard EGFR inhibitor-based therapy for patients with HER2-positive metastatic colorectal cancer. The study showed that the level of HER2 amplification in tumors played a key role in determining treatment outcomes.
Researchers discover Artemisia herba-alba extract stops cancer cell growth and causes them to die, with potential as a complementary treatment. The study highlights the plant's selective cytotoxicity against CRC cell lines, offering a promising natural ingredient for new cancer treatments.
Researchers tracked cfDNA levels before, during, and after colorectal cancer surgery, revealing significant increases associated with age, comorbidities, and surgical manipulation. The study suggests that cfDNA could serve as a non-invasive biomarker to monitor patient outcomes and evaluate surgical effectiveness.
Patients with BRAF V600E mutations showed a 60.9% overall response rate to a combination of encorafenib, cetuximab, and mFOLFOX6 chemotherapy, compared to 40% with standard-of-care treatment. This triple-combination therapy offers an effective new first-line treatment option for patients with this mutation.
A blood test using Signatera detected tiny fragments of tumor DNA in the blood, which showed that adding celecoxib to treatment may improve disease-free survival for patients with stage III colon cancer. The analysis found significantly improved outcomes for those taking celecoxib compared to placebo.
Researchers identified distinct molecular features of early onset colorectal cancer in racial and ethnic minorities, including widespread changes in DNA methylation and metabolic gene expression. These findings suggest that environmental risk factors such as diet and stress may contribute to the disparities in incidence and mortality a...
A team of researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine has developed a biomarker algorithm that can detect Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer using a noninvasive method. The algorithm uses methylation patterns in genes to identify biomarkers, achieving an AUC of nearly 0.97 in distinguishing healthy tissue from esophageal cancer.
Researchers at University of Birmingham have discovered three new protein biomarkers TFF3, LCN2, and CEACAM5 that show strong predictive potential for colorectal cancer. These biomarkers are linked to cell adhesion and inflammation, processes closely associated with cancer development.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine identified a new epigenetic approach to target colorectal cancer, using a mouse protein that disrupts cancer-causing chemical changes in genes. The study found that the protein, STELLA, can be used to develop a drug strategy to treat solid tumors.
A recent NUS Medicine study found that a molecule called DUSP6 plays a major role in helping colorectal cancer grow, with higher levels linked to poorer prognosis and decreased survival. Researchers suggest blocking DUSP6 could lead to new therapies for CRC treatment.
A new study found that Medicare Advantage patients with colorectal cancer are six percentage points less likely to receive a cancer drug compared to those on Traditional Medicare. For non-small cell lung cancer, the pattern was not as clear due to limited low-cost treatment options.
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center offers expert advice on coping with holiday loss and grief. Biological age can predict early colorectal cancer risk, while research advances may lead to a cure for multiple myeloma. Blood cancer experts share insights into new treatments.
A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology reveals a global surge in early-onset colorectal cancer cases, with 27 countries experiencing significant increases in young adults. The research highlights the need for innovative prevention strategies tailored to younger generations and local resources worldwide.
Researchers at USF and TGH Cancer Institute found a potential link between the Western diet and chronic inflammation that drives tumor growth. Chronic inflammation fueled by poor dietary choices plays a vital role in colorectal cancer growth and progression.
The collaboration aims to evaluate the potential of AMB-066 as a first-in-class treatment option for patients with colorectal cancer and minimal residual disease. MD Anderson researchers have identified a potential opportunity for AMB-066 to effectively treat MRD-positive CRC, based on robust preclinical data.
A new study suggests that a person's biological age can predict their risk of developing colon polyps and early colorectal cancer. Accelerated aging, which is higher than chronological age, may be linked to a greater risk of developing the disease, highlighting the importance of early screening.
A study led by UF Health Cancer Center researchers found that a toxin in the bacteria Campylobacter jejuni accelerates the spread of colorectal tumors. The findings could lead to new tools for detecting metastatic colorectal cancer early, ultimately helping determine patients who need more aggressive treatments.
The study estimated that prevention, screening, and treatment efforts in the US led to an average of 8 out of 10 cancer deaths being avoided for breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers combined. The total number of averted cancer deaths was approximately 5.94 million between 1975 and 2020.
Researchers identify two strains of bacteria producing colibactin as a potential link to colorectal, bladder, and prostate cancers. Targeting these strains with vaccines or probiotics could reduce cancer risk and infection burden.
Researchers found that tumor cell secreted DNA in extracellular vesicles acts as a 'danger' signal to activate an anti-tumor response in the liver, reducing liver metastasis risk. The discovery improves understanding of cancer progression and anticancer immunity.
Researchers urge people to improve their eating habits to reduce the risk of bowel cancer, citing evidence that high-fibre foods promote healthy gut bacteria. Studies found a link between poor diet choices and digestive cancers, highlighting the importance of diets rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes.
The updated ASTRO guideline recommends personalized treatment approaches for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer, including non-surgical alternatives and intensified treatment regimens. The guideline aims to improve outcomes while preserving quality of life.
A new study shows that mailing at-home fecal immunochemical testing kits and providing coordinated follow-up led to a tripling of screening completion rates compared to usual care. The intervention increased screening rates by 30% within six months and 34.6% by 12 months.
A cohort study reveals racial and ethnic variations in early-onset colorectal cancer mortality, with Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander and non-Hispanic Black individuals facing the highest burden. Social determinants of health play a significant role in explaining these disparities.
Researchers sequenced tissue and plasma samples from patients with conventional CRAs to identify genetic alterations. They found that a small proportion of samples successfully detected tissue-origin variants within matched cfDNA. The study also explored the genomic characteristics and progression of cancer from CRA to CRC-I, highlight...
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified a molecule that can promote mucosal healing through tissue regeneration, potentially treating inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer. The study found that activation of the Liver X receptor suppresses tumor growth in colorectal cancer, offering new therapeutic strategies.