Metastasis
Articles tagged with Metastasis
Slowly ticking breast cancer cells offer new clues to late relapse
Researchers have identified a hidden mechanism explaining why breast cancer can return years after successful treatment. Slow-growing breast cancer cells can form microscopic tumours that silently tick away in distant organs, evading detection for decades.
ERASur colorectal cancer trial reaches one-third patient accrual milestone
The ERASur clinical trial is investigating whether total ablative therapy can improve overall survival in patients with newly diagnosed, limited metastatic colorectal cancer. The study has reached one-third patient accrual milestone, signaling strong momentum.
Tumor-on-a-chip brings new insight to pancreatic cancer
A team of researchers has developed a 'tumor-on-a-chip' system designed to recreate the complex environment surrounding pancreatic tumors. The system, which combines patient-derived organoids with microfluidic technology, closely mimics the behavior of human pancreatic tumors and demonstrates potential for studying immune responses.
Living longer with less burden of cancer treatment: new endpoints defined for cancer trials
A new paradigm shift in cancer research defines valid primary study endpoints for oligometastatic disease, focusing on treatment-free time and minimal side effects. The consensus paper establishes two new metrics: STFS (Start or Switch of Systemic Therapy–Free Survival) and pPFS (polymetastatic Progression–Free Survival), which capture...
New targeted therapy shows promise against aggressive childhood and adult cancers
A new targeted therapy has shown strong results in preclinical studies against aggressive childhood and adult cancers, eliminating tumours and stopping cancer spread. The therapy targets the IL1RAP protein, which is found on cancer cells but largely absent from normal tissues, allowing for precise delivery of treatment.
Primary breast tumors already harbor cells with metastatic potential
Researchers have identified the Prrx1 gene as a key regulator of metastatic potential in breast cancer tumors. This discovery helps explain why highly invasive cells do not always give rise to metastases, and how cells combine invasiveness and proliferation to become the most dangerous from a clinical perspective.
Skin cancer: Biological shield against invasive forms, new study finds
A new study has identified the WWOX protein as a molecular guardian that prevents common skin tumors from undergoing a dangerous metamorphosis and spreading to other parts of the body. The loss of this protein allows cancer cells to transform into more aggressive, invasive forms.
Understanding metastasis mechanisms
A research team has identified signalling molecules called Netrins and the corresponding receptor Frazzled/Deleted in Colorectal Cancer that control when individual cells separate from the tumour and migrate. These mechanisms can enable cancer cells to colonize new tissue, a major factor in metastasis.
Targeting MD2 could limit prostate cancer bone metastasis
Researchers found that targeting MD2 could reduce tumor growth in a mouse model of prostate cancer bone metastasis. High MD2 expression was associated with metastasis, immune suppression, and increased resistance to PARP inhibitor therapy.
Innovative targeted therapy halts prostate cancer spread to the bone
Researchers at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center developed a targeted therapy that effectively prevents prostate tumors from spreading to the bone. The small molecule inhibitor IVMT-Rx-4 blocks the function of MDA-9/Syntenin, preventing tumor growth and improving survival in models with bone metastasis.
Research alert: New insights into breast cancer metastasis
A study by UC San Diego researchers reveals TYK2's role in preventing cancer spread and highlights need for enhanced screening in patients treated with TYK2 inhibitors. Understanding mechanotransduction can provide new avenues for treatment and improve breast cancer outcomes.
The SCD1 inhibitor aramchol, regorafenib, and metformin combine to kill uveal melanoma cells
Researchers found that the three-drug combination increased autophagosome formation and autophagic flux in uveal melanoma cells, killing them via enhanced autophagy. The study suggests a potential therapeutic approach for treating metastatic uveal melanoma, particularly in liver-targeted disease.
Tumor DNA circulating in patients’ blood after pre-surgery treatments predicts whether breast cancer will return
A study found that tumor DNA in patients' blood can predict whether breast cancer will return, especially after neoadjuvant treatment. Patients with detectable DNA at the end of treatment were 3.5 times more likely to relapse during follow-up.
Scalable platform sheds light on how cancer spreads
A new platform called ATLAS enables researchers to generate large quantities of cancer cell clusters that accurately model metastasis. Using ATLAS, the Rice team gained insights into the mechanisms that enable cancer clusters to survive in the bloodstream during the metastatic process.
New discovery on brain metastasis reveals how tumors hijack immune cells to use them to their advantage
A recent study has revealed that brain tumors use a protein called MIF to reprogram immune cells, such as macrophages and microglia, to drive tumor growth. The researchers have identified a drug, ibudilast, which can block this process, slowing metastasis in animal models and fresh patient samples.
Discovery about aging and cancer opens the door to better targeted treatments
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have identified a protein, ATF4, linked to increased metastasis and recurrence in lung cancer. The study reveals that older individuals' tumors are smaller and grow more slowly, yet more likely to have spread when detected.
Unusual tumor cells may be overlooked factors in advanced breast cancer
Researchers found that dual-positive cells, a type of circulating tumor cell, are associated with shorter survival times and increased risk of metastasis in patients with advanced breast cancer. The study highlights the potential importance of these under-studied cells in breast cancer progression.
GLP-1 receptor agonist use and survival among patients with type 2 diabetes and brain metastases
Patients with type 2 diabetes and brain metastases who used GLP-1 receptor agonists showed a significant reduction in all-cause mortality. The use of these medications was associated with reduced neuroinflammation, preservation of the blood-brain barrier, and lowered oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Ochsner MD Anderson to be first in the southern U.S. to offer precision cancer radiation treatment
Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center will be the first in the southern US to offer biology-guided radiotherapy (BgRT), a breakthrough treatment that uses cancer biology to guide radiotherapy delivery. This new therapy aims to provide more focused and accurate treatment with fewer side effects for patients.
Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology highlights new and open colorectal cancer trials in March
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is spotlighting new trials for colorectal cancer in March, focusing on early detection methods and treatments for treatment delays and loss of appetite. The trials aim to improve patient outcomes, with several enrolling patients with newly diagnosed colon or rectal cancer.
Engineered immune cells show promise against brain metastases in preclinical study
Researchers developed CAR macrophages that crossed the blood-brain barrier, recognizing and destroying cancer cells and releasing signals to harm nearby tumors. The treatment showed significant reductions in brain tumor progression and increased survival in preclinical models.
Mount Sinai study may help cancer patients keep their bladder
Researchers developed a molecular monitoring approach to identify patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer who can safely preserve their bladder without compromising cancer outcomes. The study found that ultra-sensitive testing of tumor-derived DNA in blood and urine may help predict metastatic risk and identify patients with an ex...
The UBR5-Snail axis in colorectal cancer metastasis
Researchers identify UBR5 as a critical tumor suppressor that modulates Snail's stability, facilitating metastasis. UBR5 maintains epithelial phenotype by targeting Snail for degradation, while its deficiency promotes Snail stabilization and metastatic cascade.
Senescence behind the aggressive nature of postpartum breast cancer
A study reveals that senescence plays a paradoxical role in postpartum breast cancer, promoting tumor formation while also aiding tissue repair. Targeting senescent cells during mammary gland involution could potentially reduce the risk of this form of cancer.
UH researcher joins $3.2 million effort to develop promising new breast cancer treatment
Researchers are developing a new compound that can break down MDM2, a cancer-driving protein often found in triple-negative breast cancer, showing promise in shrinking tumors. The goal is to create an entirely new class of therapies for this aggressive and difficult-to-treat form of the disease.
Early diagnosis key to improving childhood cancer survival
A major study has shown that tumour stage at diagnosis is strongly linked to childhood cancer survival across six different cancers. Researchers analysed data from 9,883 children in 27 countries and found significant variation in three-year survival rates between regions, particularly in the UK and Ireland.
Discovery of new lymph node architecture reshapes understanding of lymphatic physiology
A research team at Tohoku University has made a groundbreaking discovery about the anatomy of lymph nodes, revealing new structures that challenge traditional ideas about immune system function. The findings have significant implications for understanding and treating conditions like lymphedema and cancer.
Killing cancer cells with RNA therapeutics
In a mouse study, researchers successfully used RNA micelles to shrink metastasized tumors in lungs by delivering chemotherapy drugs and an RNA molecule that blocks cancer survival. The treatment significantly reduced tumor growth and improved outcomes for mice with colorectal cancer lung metastasis.
New England Journal of Medicine publishes phase 3 PATINA trial data demonstrating a significant progression-free survival benefit with palbociclib in metastatic HR+, HER2+ breast cancer
The PATINA trial demonstrates a significant progression-free survival benefit with palbociclib in patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) metastatic breast cancer. The study showed a median progression-free survival of 44.3 months, compared to 29.1 months in the control arm.
Blood biomarker points to increased risk of brain metastasis in patients with inflammatory breast cancer
Researchers identified a targetable driver of brain metastases in inflammatory breast cancer, promoting tumor invasion and triggering brain inflammation via the CXCR2 signaling pathway. Targeting sEcad or the CXCR2 pathway may treat or prevent brain metastasis.
AI-powered model advances treatment planning for patients with spinal metastasis
A new AI-powered model predicts patient survival and risk stratification for spinal metastasis, allowing for more informed treatment decisions. The model achieved high predictive accuracy using large-scale clinical data from Japanese patients.
Chemotherapy rewires gut bacteria to curb metastasis
Research reveals that chemotherapy alters the gut microbiota, producing indole-3-propionic acid, which travels to the bone marrow and rewires immune cell production. This leads to a metastasis-refractory state in preclinical models and improved survival outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer.
Dormant cancer cells change shape to survive immune system attack
Researchers discovered that cancer cells lower their surface tension to evade immune detection, making them harder to attack. By understanding this process, scientists hope to develop new treatments to prevent metastasis and eliminate dormant cancer cells.
UH pharmacy researcher receives $900,000 CPRIT grant to develop nanodrug that boosts immune system to fight cancer
A new nanodrug called Nano-273 could offer improved survival for patients with pancreatic and lung cancers by activating the immune system and blocking tumor growth. The drug, developed by University of Houston researcher Wei Gao, has shown promising results in early studies.
When ovarian cancer alters the abdominal cavity
Researchers found that ovarian cancer transforms the omentum into an environment that favors tumor spread. The study analyzed tissue samples from 15 patients and created a cell atlas of the omentum in diseased and healthy states.
Night shifts aren’t just tiring, they can be deadly
A new study from Texas A&M University reveals that circadian disruptions change the structure of mammary glands, weaken immune defenses, and fuel aggressive breast cancer. Disabling an immune checkpoint molecule called LILRB4 helps restore the immune system's ability to fight back.
Blood test may help identify which colon cancer patients benefit from NSAIDs
A blood test may help doctors identify which patients with colon cancer can benefit from anti-inflammatory medication and chemotherapy after surgery. The test measures circulating tumor DNA levels, and high-risk patients who test positive see improved survival rates when taking celecoxib with chemotherapy.
An ECOG-ACRIN imaging study solves a long-standing gap in metastatic breast cancer research and care: accurately measuring treatment response in patients with bone metastases
A prospective multicenter trial validated an improved method for predicting treatment benefits in hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer with bone metastases. Metabolic change assessed by FDG-PET/CT accurately predicted progression-free survival as early as 12 weeks after treatment initiation.
New gene-mapping method unlocks hidden drivers of cancer
Researchers have developed an AI-driven method to uncover genetic interactions driving cancer progression. The approach highlights complex interplay between genes allowing malignant cells to gain momentum and reveals previously hidden cancer drivers.
Novel AI technique able to distinguish between progressive brain tumours and radiation necrosis, York University study finds
A new AI-based method can differentiate between tumour progression and radiation necrosis with high accuracy, enabling more accurate identification and treatment of late-stage cancer patients. This discovery could lead to better treatments for brain metastasis patients treated with stereotactic radiosurgery.
Breast cancer remodels lymphatic vessels to accelerate its spreading
Researchers discovered breast cancer modifies lymphatic vessels to facilitate its spread. A specific protein, Matrix Gla protein (MPG), enables cancer cells to bind to lymphatic vessels, supporting metastasis. Understanding this process could lead to targeted therapies and improved patient outcomes.
Identifying genes that keep cancer from spreading
Scientists at Penn Vet have identified two genes, Ctnna1 and Bcl2l13, that suppress metastasis in preclinical models of colorectal cancer. These findings could lead to better treatments and therapies for patients with metastatic disease.
Synthetic stress hormone dexamethasone could reduce breast cancer metastases
Researchers discovered that synthetic stress hormone dexamethasone can combat therapy-resistant breast cancer metastases in mice trials. The drug activates the glucocorticoid receptor, suppressing estrogen receptor production and slowing tumor growth. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings in patients with breast cancer.
Scientists move closer to better pancreatic cancer treatments
Researchers at UC Riverside and City of Hope have developed a novel Pin1 degrading compound that suppresses pancreatic cancer peritoneal metastases. The treatment targets not only cancer cells but also tumor-supporting cells, potentially overcoming treatment resistance.
Researchers aim to disrupt breast cancer line of communication and prevent spread
Researchers identified a cholesterol metabolite called hydroxycholesterol that suppresses the immune system's ability to attack cancer, leading to increased metastasis. The team discovered a line of communication used by immune cells and cancer cells that stimulates breast cancer progression.
Breast cancer case study could inform clinical trials
Researchers studied MALAT1 levels in a woman with triple-negative breast cancer, finding high levels at diagnosis and decreased while receiving treatment. Notably, levels increased at a distant metastatic site, suggesting MALAT1's role in TNBC's spread. The study informs future treatments and potential clinical trials.
Factoring in frailty and age to improve pancreatic cancer treatment
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute found that aging accelerates pancreatic cancer progression, leading to faster tumor growth and metastasis. By understanding the impact of age on the tumor microenvironment, they developed a new approach to treating this disease in frail patients.
OHSU researchers develop promising drug for aggressive breast cancer
Researchers at OHSU develop a promising drug SU212 to treat intractable cases of triple-negative breast cancer. The molecule binds to and degrades the enzyme enolase 1, suppressing tumor growth and metastasis in humanized mouse models.
Colorectal cancer evades immunotherapy using a dual barrier
A study reveals how colorectal tumors use TGF-β to prevent immune cells from reaching and attacking the tumor. The researchers suggest strategies to improve immunotherapy efficacy by blocking this dual barrier and identifying new therapeutic targets.
Decoding the mechanics of cancer invasion
Biomechanical forces play a crucial role in regulating cancer invasion and metastasis by modulating cell membrane topology, actin cytoskeletal remodeling, and mechanical stress adaptation. The review highlights the importance of three-dimensional tumor models and novel therapies targeting mechanical signaling pathways to inhibit invasion.
Signpost of cancer linked to wound-healing properties
Researchers at Arizona State University discovered that SerpinB3 plays a natural role in the body's wound-healing process, helping skin recover after damage. The protein helps activate keratinocytes to rebuild tissue and improve skin strength.
Distinguished cancer researcher Stuart S. Martin, PhD, named Chair of the Department of Pharmacology & Physiology at UM School of Medicine
Stuart S. Martin, PhD, has been appointed Chair of the Department of Pharmacology & Physiology at UMSOM, bringing over 20 years of success in advancing basic science research efforts and developing new drug therapies. His groundbreaking discovery of microtentacles on cancer cells promises to lead to new life-extending therapies.
Triggering cell death in metastatic melanoma may pave the way for new cancer treatments
Researchers have discovered a new way to understand cancer and its vulnerabilities by targeting FSP1, a protein that helps cancer cells survive. The study found that FSP1 inhibitors can effectively reduce the growth of metastatic melanoma cells in lymph nodes.
New USC study identifies key genes linked to aggressive prostate cancer in people of African descent
A new USC study identified five genes linked to aggressive prostate cancer in people of African descent, including ATM, BRCA2, CHEK2, HOXB13 and PALB2. The researchers developed a method combining genetic risk scores with family history and specific variant presence for personalized monitoring and treatment strategies.
Trastuzumab deruxtecan shows positive results in rare breast cancer with brain metastasis
A new case report describes the successful treatment of a 37-year-old woman with HER2-positive breast cancer that had spread to the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Trastuzumab deruxtecan, an antibody-drug conjugate, improved the patient's neurological symptoms and reduced cancer growth.
Overcoming refractory pancreatic cancer through long-term starvation therapy
Researchers developed nanomachines that can function stably within living organisms, enabling starvation therapy to treat refractory pancreatic cancer. This approach improved treatment outcomes by depleting essential nutrients for cancer cell growth.
Breast cancer brain metastasis: bridging biological mechanisms to therapeutic innovations
Researchers outline biological mechanisms of breast cancer brain metastasis, highlighting key molecular pathways and the role of the brain microenvironment. The review also discusses emerging therapeutic approaches and calls for cross-disciplinary collaboration to improve outcomes.
Lactate–acetate interaction between tumor-associated macrophages and cancer cells drives hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis
Researchers found that tumor-associated macrophages produce acetate through a metabolic interaction involving lactate and the lipid peroxidation–ALDH2 pathway. This acetate promotes histone H3 acetylation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma cells, enhancing metastasis.
Breast cancer discovery could help prevent recurrence
Biologists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have made a significant discovery that could lead to better patient outcomes for ER+ breast cancer patients. Inhibiting the BPTF protein in mice can slow cancer metastasis and restore tumors' susceptibility to hormone therapy, offering new hope for treating resistant forms of the disease.