Research on colorectal and bowel cancer. Covers AI-audited colonoscopy, gut-bacteria links, family risk, and early-onset differences.
Researchers explore potential synergies between chemotherapy, cannabinoids, and intermittent serum starvation in treating colorectal cancer. Combining these therapies could create a strong synergy by depriving cancer cells of glucose, making them more susceptible to treatment.
Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University are investigating the complex relationship between fat tissue and colorectal cancer. The study aims to enhance knowledge of the tumour microenvironment, uncover new molecules crucial for cancer growth, and develop more effective treatments.
Emerging endoscopic technologies, such as wide-field and microscopic-field techniques, enhance CRC screening. AI-driven tools improve polyp detection rates and reduce biopsy rates, while robotic colonoscopy offers procedural precision and patient comfort.
Researchers found higher levels of CD47 expression linked to more aggressive tumors, immune cells, and oncogenic signaling. Targeting CD47 could lead to improved outcomes with immunotherapy drugs, especially in cases where existing treatments are ineffective.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network has updated its guidelines for genetic/familial high-risk assessment, incorporating the latest scientific research and expert recommendations to enhance screening practices and treatment options. The expanded guidelines cover various cancer types and provide guidance on genetic testing, heredit...
A recent study demonstrates that stool DNA testing is highly sensitive and specific for detecting colorectal cancer among Thai individuals, with a sensitivity of 91.5% and specificity of 90.3%. The test targets methylation statuses of three genes and may provide a viable non-invasive alternative to colonoscopy.
Researchers have discovered a therapeutic approach that shows promise in preclinical models for treating cancers driven by RAS mutations. The study found that tri-complex inhibitors can restore the normal functioning of mutated RAS proteins, aiming to correct the defect that drives cancer growth.
Researchers create genetic barcoding approach to record cellular events and clonality in vivo, revealing that colorectal cancer originates from multiple healthy cells. This work provides a new understanding of the transition from polyclonal to monoclonal composition in advanced stages.
Researchers identified three long noncoding RNAs associated with worse outcomes in colorectal cancer patients, potentially serving as prognostic markers. The study's findings could enable doctors to separate high-risk patients from those at low risk of disease recurrence, leading to more effective treatment strategies.
A recent study by Stanford Medicine suggests that new blood-based colon cancer screening tests are effective for people who shun traditional methods. However, if too many switch to the new tests, colorectal cancer death rates may rise due to reduced detection of early cancers and precancerous polyps.
Researchers have discovered key mutations in certain cancer cells that render WRN inhibitors ineffective. The study found that prolonged exposure to these inhibitors can lead to the acquisition of mutations in the WRN gene, allowing cancer cells to survive and develop resistance.
Researchers developed grain-sized soft robots that can transport up to four different drugs, release them in reprogrammable orders and doses, and navigate complex environments inside the human body. The robots' precision functions have the potential to significantly improve therapeutic outcomes while minimizing side effects.
UTEP researchers developed a portable device that can detect colorectal and prostate cancer quickly and accurately, reducing the need for costly instruments. The device is low-cost, sensitive, and analyzes samples in just an hour.
Researchers have developed a 'mini-protein' that targets cancer cells expressing Nectin-4, allowing for direct delivery of radiation to tumours. The treatment shows promise in targeting multiple types of cancers and has the potential to be safe for repeated administrations.
The Colorectal Cancer Alliance's Project Cure CRC has awarded nearly $5 million in research grants to advance urgent science in colorectal cancer. Recent awardees are working on topics such as radioimmunotherapy, CRISPR technology, and the protein drug ProAgio to better understand and treat this disease.
A new study reveals that high levels of dietary iron from red meat reactivates telomerase, driving colorectal cancer progression. A promising small molecule, SP2509, blocks this reaction, offering hope for targeted therapies in Singapore and globally.
A systematic review of randomized clinical trials found that AI-assisted colonoscopies increased overall detection of colonic polyps and adenomas, with a small increase in procedure time. Researchers also found no clear differences in benefit for detecting adenomas across different AI systems.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that close to 39% of adults aged 45-49 returned their FIT kit, compared to nearly 38% of adults aged 50. The study suggests that adults in this age group have a similar colorectal cancer risk as those aged 50.
Younger adults diagnosed with colorectal cancer have later-stage disease with more aggressive types of tumors. Obesity, family history, inflammatory bowel disease, and symptoms are strongly associated factors. These findings highlight disparities in colon cancer incidence among younger adults, particularly non-Hispanic Black patients.
Researchers discovered a previously unknown class of compounds in the fungus Bipolaris victoriae S27 that effectively kill colorectal cancer cells. The most effective compound, bipoterpride No. 2, targets the DCTPP1 enzyme and shows promise as a potential new treatment option.
A new study reveals how chronic stress disrupts the balance of gut microbiota to speed up the progression of colorectal cancer. The research identified a particular bacterial species as a potential therapeutic target, specifically Lactobacillus genus, which is essential for a healthy immune response against cancer.
Researchers developed a machine learning model to predict mesenteric lymph node metastasis preoperatively in colorectal cancer patients. The XGB-based model achieved high accuracy, identifying key predictors such as perineural invasion and hematocrit levels.
A new study aims to increase follow-up care for patients who receive abnormal stool-based fecal immunochemical tests, focusing on improving coordination between primary and specialty clinics. The goal is to improve colorectal cancer screening processes in underserved populations, increasing survival and reducing mortality.
A large proportion of gene variants previously classified as 'variants of uncertain significance' (VUS) have been reclassified as benign, according to a study published in the American Journal of Human Genetics. This reduces the total number of VUS by 37%, providing relief for carriers worldwide.
Researchers found that humorous comic strip cartoons increased likelihood of agreeing to take a quiz on personal risk for colon cancer. Exposing people to funny content reduced information avoidance, making them more likely to choose to watch a video about colorectal cancer prevention.
A double-blind randomized phase 3 clinical trial found no additional benefits from high-dose vitamin D3 when added to standard chemotherapy for patients with untreated metastatic colorectal cancer. However, a potential benefit was observed for left-sided disease patients.
A single-center cohort study identified substantial overall survival disparity among racial and ethnic groups, with socioeconomic status contributing less than a third of the disparity. Tumor molecular features also played a significant role in the disparities found in colorectal cancer survival.
Researchers at NTU Singapore and Oxford have identified a new process called nucleophagy that helps cells remove harmful DNA-protein lesions, promoting genetic material stability and cell survival. This discovery may improve cancer treatment outcomes for patients with colorectal cancer.
A new study published in Annals of Oncology found that long-course radiotherapy is safer and more effective than short-course radiotherapy for preserving organs in rectal cancer patients. The treatment was shown to prevent regrowth of the primary tumour, but had similar overall survival rates.
Researchers found that omitting the bolus-specific 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) portion from common chemotherapy regimens improves tolerability without sacrificing treatment effectiveness. The study of 11,765 patients shows no decrease in overall survival but a notable reduction in cytopenias.
Patients with early-onset colorectal cancer living in rural areas had lower 5-year survival rates compared to urban counterparts. Persistent poverty in these areas may compound this association, affecting overall survival outcomes.
Researchers have found that natural killer cells instinctively recognize and attack the XPO1 protein, which drives cancer growth. By targeting this protein, scientists may be able to activate more killer cells to destroy cancer cells. The study suggests that this approach could lead to personalized cancer treatment with less side effects.
A University of Oklahoma researcher has been awarded a NIH grant to evaluate thousands of natural products with therapeutic potential. The goal is to identify specific components of these products that have anticancer properties and understand how they work.
Researchers found that CHEK2 variants do not increase colorectal cancer risk compared to controls. Three low-risk missense variants were identified as potential drivers of breast cancer risk variability.
A new treatment approach has been confirmed effective in a major study, showing that locally advanced rectal cancer patients can experience complete tumour disappearance without needing surgery. This method reduces the risk of recurrence and preserves normal bowel function, offering a promising alternative to traditional treatments.
The study analyzes six major digestive system cancers worldwide and in China, revealing correlations between country HDI and cancer prevalence. Colorectal cancer is the most prevalent, while Asia accounts for 60.5% of new gastrointestinal cancer cases globally.
Researchers discuss the role of gut microbiota in regulating basal inflammation levels and promoting healing of the bowel after surgery. Weakened gut barrier function may lead to persistent low-grade inflammation and increased risk of cancer recurrence.
A new Cleveland Clinic study reveals that diet-derived molecules called metabolites are the main drivers of young-onset colorectal cancer risk, particularly those associated with red and processed meat. The research suggests that addressing diet with doctors can help prevent colon cancer in younger adults.
A clinical trial in Denmark found that offering women further screening opportunities during breast cancer screenings significantly increased their participation and enabled early diagnosis of other cancers. The study used a cluster-randomized crossover design and involved over 27,000 participants.
The study identified 96 mutated driver genes, 9 of which were previously unknown in CRC, and 24 that were new to any form of cancer. A new molecular classifier system was developed, identifying five distinct CRC prognostic subtypes with unique molecular characteristics.
Researchers discuss diverse BRAF alterations found in human cancers and strategies to inhibit them. Class I BRAF inhibitors represent a landmark achievement in precision oncology, with FDA-approved dabrafenib/trametinib for metastatic BRAF p.V600E-mutant solid tumors.
A cohort study found that aspirin use was associated with a greater absolute reduction in risk of colorectal cancer among individuals with less healthy lifestyles. Lifestyle risk factors may help identify those with a more favorable risk-benefit profile for cancer prevention with aspirin.
A study published in JAMA Oncology found that regular aspirin use significantly lowers the risk of colorectal cancer in individuals with higher lifestyle-related risk factors. The benefits were most pronounced among those with unhealthiest lifestyles, where treating 78 patients with aspirin would prevent one case of colorectal cancer o...
Researchers identified areas with lower colorectal cancer screening rates and developed an interactive web map to pinpoint neighborhood-level disparities. The study aims to inform targeted education or intervention programs, ultimately increasing screening rates in priority neighborhoods and contributing to national improvements.
A new AI algorithm assesses immune cells in early-stage bowel cancer tumours to predict recurrence risk. The CD3 Score test has been shown to reliably identify high-risk cancers that are more likely to recur within five years of surgery, enabling clinicians to make informed decisions about chemotherapy treatment.
A study published in JAMA Surgery shows that liver transplants significantly improve progression-free survival rates for patients with unresectable colorectal liver metastases compared to other therapies. At three years, 90% of transplant patients remained cancer-progression free, whereas only 42% of those receiving alternative treatme...
A new study published in JAMA Network Open shows that an at-home fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) screen can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer death by 33%, comparable to screening colonoscopy. FIT is a non-invasive test that involves mailing a stool sample to the laboratory for analysis.
Cancer cells can attach themselves to liver cells when specific proteins are present, allowing them to colonize and form new tumors. This discovery provides insights into the metastatic process and may lead to potential treatments that prevent cancer from establishing new tumors.
Researchers found that eliminating racial disparities in follow-up colonoscopy rates and quality would significantly reduce colorectal cancer incidence and mortality. By closing these gaps, the study aims to achieve health equity and find innovative solutions for true change.
Colorectal cancer treatment is limited by existing therapies, but epigenetic modifiers offer a novel approach. DNMT and TET inhibitors have been identified as promising therapeutic strategies to restore normal gene function and combat CRC.
A nested case-control study found that completing fecal immunochemical tests lowers overall death risk from colorectal cancer, particularly in the left colon. The association was observed across racial and ethnic groups, supporting its use in population-based screening strategies.
Researchers have identified a potential biomarker, CXCL13, that correlates with treatment response and prognosis in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. High levels of CXCL13 are associated with positive treatment response and improved survival, while low levels indicate non-response and poorer prognosis.
The study confirms the effectiveness of 12 standards in reducing hospital length of stay, costs, and complication rates. Standardized care protocols across multiple phases of surgical care lead to improved patient outcomes and hospital efficiency.
Researchers found that regorafenib synergizes with TAS102 to inhibit cancer growth, angiogenesis, and microvessel density in preclinical models of colorectal and gastric cancers. The combination also suppresses ERK1/2 activation regardless of KRAS or BRAF mutational status.
Cutting processed meat intake by 30% reduces the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and colorectal cancer. The study found that this reduction would lead to over 350,000 fewer diabetes cases and tens of thousands fewer cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer cases.
African American woman breast cancer survivor talking about her experience with breast cancer and the impact of breast cancer on women's lives. The American Cancer Society is a leading organization in cancer research, patient services, and advocacy.
Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach in treating metastatic colorectal cancer, especially for patients with dMMR/MSI-H tumors. The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors has shown favorable outcomes in clinical trials, including improved progression-free survival and disease control rates.
Researchers have identified a new potential target for colorectal cancer treatment in the form of the protein PFDN6. Studies found that PFDN6 levels are increased in CRC patients, contributing to tumor growth and cell migration. Reducing PFDN6 in lab studies slowed cancer cell spread and increased cell death.
AlphaFold's groundbreaking ability to predict protein structures is set to transform predictive medicine, enabling the development of personalized vaccines and adaptive clinical trials. However, the review also highlights crucial challenges and ethical considerations surrounding AI integration with clinical data.
Researchers at NTNU have developed a way to reconstruct 3D models of the colon using single images taken by capsule endoscopy cameras. These models can aid in detecting abnormalities and signs of disease, enabling specialists to make diagnoses faster.