Research on colorectal and bowel cancer. Covers AI-audited colonoscopy, gut-bacteria links, family risk, and early-onset differences.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a possible new pathway to treat colorectal cancer by targeting the NF-kB-inducing kinase (NIK) protein. The study, led by Irving Coy Allen, identifies changes in a significant signaling pathway in human patients and presents potential targets for therapeutics.
A new trial indicates that immunotherapy could successfully treat the most common form of colorectal cancer. The study, published in Nature Medicine, found that botensilimab and balstilimab caused tumours to shrink or remain stable in 61% of patients with microsatellite stable metastatic colorectal cancer.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine developed an artificial intelligence-powered method for detecting tumor DNA in blood, showing high sensitivity and accuracy in predicting cancer recurrence. The technology, called MRD-EDGE, can detect subtle patterns in sequencing data to distinguish between cancer and non-cancerous signals.
Researchers developed an oral inulin-based hydrogel targeting colorectal tumors, which released oxaliplatin and modulated the microbiota to generate anti-tumor immune responses. The treatment showed improved chemotherapy efficacy and reduced tumor progression.
Researchers from IBEC investigated how mechanical properties of colorectal cancer stem cells influence metastasis. Cells expressing LGR5 protein exhibit softer, less sticky properties and better adhere to blood vessel walls.
Researchers have developed a novel approach to treat colorectal cancer using simultaneous delivery of alpha- and beta-radionuclides, significantly reducing side effects. The therapy, known as pretargeted dual-isotope radionuclide therapy, has been shown to be effective in inducing tumor shrinkage and cures.
Researchers found that metformin increases levels of microRNAs miR-2110 and miR-132-3p, targeting genes PIK3R3 and STMN1 to slow down cancer cell growth and division. This study provides new insights into metformin's molecular mechanisms and its potential as a preventive agent for reducing cancer growth.
A recent NTU Singapore study found that eight in ten gastroenterologists accept and trust the use of AI-powered tools in diagnosing and assessing colorectal polyps. The study, which surveyed 165 doctors in the Asia-Pacific region, also found that more experienced gastroenterologists perceived a lower risk of AI tools.
This study found that lowering the fecal immunochemical test positivity threshold can achieve comparable sensitivity and specificity to the multitarget stool RNA test without additional testing. The findings are similar to previous observations with multitarget stool DNA testing, suggesting a potentially simpler screening method.
Research led by Weill Cornell Medicine found that most colorectal cancers begin with the loss of intestinal stem cells, even before cancer-causing genetic alterations appear. This new understanding suggests a unified model for colorectal cancer initiation where damage to intestinal crypts causes a decrease in aPKC protein expression.
A study by UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center researchers found that combining experimental immunotherapy drugs with chemotherapy significantly improves progression-free survival and overall survival for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. The median progression-free survival was 6.2 months compared to 2.1 months f...
A Kaiser Permanente study of 316,443 patients reveals that 7.4% repeated fecal testing instead of proceeding to a colonoscopy, and only 41% received a colonoscopy within one year of their initial positive test. Patients who repeated home tests cited concerns about colorectal cancer diagnosis
Studies reveal distinct differences in oral microbiomes of patients with gastric cancer, premalignant conditions, and healthy controls. Researchers also found a surge in colorectal cancer incidence among young patients under 45, while late-stage gallbladder cancer is on the rise in non-Hispanic Blacks.
A study led by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that offering patients a choice between colonoscopy and at-home tests more than doubled colorectal cancer screening rates. Approximately 10% of participants received colonoscopies, while around 11% completed at-home fecal immunochemical tests.
A meta-analysis suggests combining microsatellite instability (MSI) and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) can optimize prognostic assessment in early-stage colorectal cancer. Patients with high MSI and TIL had the best prognosis, while those with low immune cells found in the tumor tissue had a poor outcome.
New cancer projections highlight progress in reducing incidence rates for common cancers like lung, colorectal, and prostate, but also warn of rising rates for less common types such as liver, kidney, melanoma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Between 1999 and 2020, colorectal cancer incidence grew by 500% among children ages 10-14, 333% among teens aged 15-19, and 185% among young adults ages 20-24. Researchers highlight the need for tailored approaches to screening and awareness of signs and symptoms.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital found an association between appendix removal and a decreased risk of colorectal cancer positive for the bacterium Fusobacterium nucleatum. The study involved large prospective cohort studies and analyzed data from over 139,000 participants.
The ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group has launched the ComboMATCH-E5 trial, evaluating the combination of sotorasib and panitumumab in patients with KRAS G12C-mutated advanced solid tumors. The study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of the combination in this patient population.
A study published by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that ACA insurance expansions led to an increase in patients receiving care at accredited cancer hospitals in Pennsylvania. The study suggests that these expansions make a difference in improving access to high-quality cancer care, particularly for those living in areas wi...
A cohort study found that individuals with a first colonoscopy with negative findings for colorectal cancer may benefit from longer screening intervals, potentially up to 15 years. This could lead to fewer unnecessary invasive examinations and improved patient outcomes.
Menopausal hormone therapy is appropriate to treat vasomotor symptoms in early menopause without contraindications. WHI evidence does not support routine supplementation with calcium plus vitamin D or a low-fat diet for preventing fractures and breast/colorectal cancer, respectively.
Scientists have developed mini-colon tissues that can simulate the complex process of tumorigenesis outside the body with high fidelity. These miniature organs mimic the physical structure and cellular diversity of colon tissue, allowing researchers to study colorectal cancer development and test potential therapies.
A new study reveals that aspirin boosts certain aspects of the immune system to detect and target cancer cells, reducing cancer spread to lymph nodes. Aspirin also increases expression of a protein called CD80 on immune cells, enhancing their ability to alert other immune cells of tumor-associated proteins.
A significant gap exists in the colorectal screening process, particularly after a positive stool-based test, where timely follow-up with colonoscopy is often lacking. This can lead to reduced incidence and mortality rates from colorectal cancer if addressed through education and quality measures.
The innovative Integrated Virtual Care (IVC) program successfully connected residents with family physicians in Renfrew County, addressing the rural shortage of primary care providers. Over 2,800 unique patient appointments were conducted, with 70% done virtually, offering comprehensive team-based primary care.
The study, presented at AACR Annual Meeting 2024, found the combination therapy to be effective with an objective response rate of 34% and a disease control rate of 85.1%. The regimen performed favorably compared to historical data for similar cohorts, indicating potential as a new standard of care.
Researchers developed a nanosized polymer that selectively delivers chemotherapeutic drugs to blood vessels supporting tumor growth. The treatment eliminates colorectal cancer liver metastases and prolongs mice survival after a single dose-therapy.
Researchers have identified specific gut microbiota signatures associated with KRAS mutations in colorectal cancer. The study suggests that these microbes may serve as non-invasive biomarkers for identifying subtypes of CRC and inform personalized treatment approaches.
A study of 9,740 surveillance colonoscopies found rare colorectal cancer detection and higher advanced neoplasia yields among those with prior advanced adenoma. These findings inform decision-making on continued screening in older adults with a history of colorectal adenomas.
A population-wide observational study found an association between tuberculosis (TB) and a higher incidence of various cancers. TB patients were more likely to be diagnosed with lung, blood, gynaecological, colorectal, thyroid, oesophagus, and stomach cancers compared to the general population.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that hospitals accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC) demonstrate significantly better outcomes for patients undergoing rectal cancer surgery. These institutions show lower rates of mortality, complications, and morbidity comp...
Researchers have found that combining DNMT and EZH2 inhibitors activates viral mimicry in cancer cells, making them more susceptible to attack by the immune system. The combination therapy has shown potential in treating colorectal cancers and other solid tumors, with an upcoming Phase I clinical trial planned.
New data suggest that blood-based colorectal cancer screening tests could lead to more cases and deaths than established methods, despite improving outcomes for unscreened individuals. The tests are predicted to be less effective and more costly, making them unsuitable replacements for current screening programs.
Researchers suggest a follow-up colonoscopy within defined periods after abnormal stool-based screening test results. The proposed measure aims to address low current performance rates and produce reliable results.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant decrease in colorectal cancer surgeries, with patients undergoing procedures having more advanced stages of cancer compared to those treated in 2019. The study found that approximately 10,000 fewer patients did not have surgery for colorectal cancer in 2020.
Researchers found that individuals with a single mutated copy of the MUTYH gene have a modest increase in susceptibility to a subset of solid tumors, including adrenal gland cancers and pancreatic islet cell tumors. This suggests that MUTYH variants may be involved in a broader range of cancers than previously known.
Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center found that a specific subtype of Fusobacterium nucleatum is responsible for tumor growth in up to 50% of human colorectal cancers. The study identifies the exact bacterial lineage associated with colorectal cancer, offering opportunities for developing microbial cellular therapies.
A new study suggests that removing barriers to cervical cancer screening, surveillance, and diagnostic procedures can save lives and reduce disparities. If every eligible person gets the full screening and follow-up tests recommended, up to 23% fewer people would be diagnosed with cervical cancer and 20% fewer would die from it.
The study found that 90.98% of participants obtained a definitive result from colorectal cancer screening, with 31.71% being normal and 5.49% having non-neoplastic polyps. The results suggest the importance of primary care physicians in promoting secondary prevention and informing the population about the program.
A new link has been discovered between FBXW7 mutations and EGFR signaling activity in colorectal cancer. The study found that the mutated form of the FBXW7 gene could no longer degrade the EGFR protein, leading to increased signaling activity and a decreased response to anti-EGFR treatment.
Research highlights new findings on social vulnerability and survivorship after colorectal cancer resection, as well as disparities in kidney recovery among Black donors. Additionally, studies reveal cost savings from implementing quality interventions and explore eligibility for transplants in obese patients with end-stage renal disease.
Researchers linked red/processed meat consumption to increased colorectal cancer risk, highlighting two genetic markers (HAS2 and SMAD7) that alter cancer risk levels based on meat intake. The study analyzed data from nearly 70,000 people and found a 30-40% increased risk for those with high red or processed meat intake.
A clinical study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that a blood test can detect colorectal cancer in 83% of people confirmed to have the disease. The test, which analyzes circulating tumor DNA, offers an alternative to current screening options for patients who may decline traditional methods.
A new study published in New England Journal of Medicine found that a next generation multi-target stool DNA colorectal cancer screening test detects 94 percent of colorectal cancers, outperforming other noninvasive tests. The test has the best detection rate for both colorectal cancer and advanced precancerous polyps.
A study found that up to 87% of childhood cancer survivors are not following recommended screening guidelines, leaving them vulnerable to late effects such as heart disease and certain cancers. The lack of awareness and barriers to adherence may contribute to this low rate, highlighting the need for improved support and education.
A recent study investigated eating habits and physical activity in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with overweight/obesity. The results show that these patients have higher prevalence of metastasis, recurrence, and death compared to eutrophic patients.
Research reveals micro- and nanoplastics can persist in the human body for longer than previously thought, being passed on to newly formed cells during cell division. The study also suggests these tiny plastic particles may promote the spread of cancer by increasing tumor migration.
A pilot study has confirmed the feasibility and acceptability of a bowel symptom intervention for rectal cancer survivors. The intervention, which included dietary changes and phone-based support, showed some benefits in reducing symptoms such as frequent bowel movements and bloating.
A bioinformatics analysis identified 71 differentially expressed genes in colorectal cancer, with Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) emerging as a key player. KLF4 was associated with immune cell infiltration and poor prognosis in overall survival analyses.
Researchers define a 'core senescent profile' in human colon fibroblasts, revealing potential driver proteins involved in CRC. The study's findings provide insights into therapies for improving overall health and preventing CRC.
A study of routine fecal occult blood testing found a significant decrease in colorectal cancer mortality in Sweden. The association between screening and reduced mortality is expected to be higher due to co-existing testing and delayed diagnoses.
A new off-the-shelf vaccine has shown promise in treating pancreatic and colorectal cancers in patients with KRAS mutations. The study found that the vaccine significantly decreased tumor biomarkers and produced strong T-cell responses, leading to a reduced risk of relapse and death.
A new AI-powered system has been shown to detect 40% more polyps during colonoscopies, a crucial step in preventing colorectal cancer. This breakthrough technology uses artificial intelligence to examine every pixel in the image and alert doctors to potential issues, allowing for more accurate diagnoses.
A recent study reveals the lack of colorectal cancer screening programs in low-middle-income countries, but successful implementation in high-middle-income Latin American nations. High-middle-income countries achieved high uptake of screening, with over 75% receiving colonoscopies following positive stool test results.
A new study from the University of Ottawa proposes using vanoxerine, a drug initially developed for cocaine addiction, to potentially treat advanced colon cancer. Vanoxerine has been found to suppress cancer stem cell activity in colon cancer patients' tissues and tumours implanted in laboratory animals. The drug works by interfering w...
A new stool test, multitargetFIT-test (mtFIT), detects cancer precursors more effectively than the current FIT test, predicting a reduction in new cases of colorectal cancer and mortality. The new test yields more true-positive results without an increase in 'false-positive' results.
Researchers found that combining chemotherapy drugs triggers 'cell blasters' to kill cancer, leading to longer survival rates in patients with tumors having increased NETs. The study's novel discovery paves the way for designing new cancer treatments.
Researchers found elevated PROX1 levels in advanced colon adenocarcinoma, correlating with poor prognosis. PROX1 modulates CRC cell behavior, influencing invasiveness and survival outcomes. The combined PROX1/α-SMA gene set emerges as a potential CRC prognostic marker.
Researchers mapped changes in tumor-related bacteria to uncover potential strategies to combat the rise of young-onset colorectal cancer. Unique bacterial signatures were found in tumors from younger patients, including Akkermansia and Bacteroides, which are more likely to have left-sided, rectal, and advanced stage tumors.