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The magic behind merlin

Researchers have identified a key function of merlin in maintaining adherens junctions, which are essential for suppressing cancer development and progression. The study reveals that loss of merlin results in destabilization of these junctions, leading to unchecked cell proliferation and tumor formation.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateApr 18, 2003

Jefferson scientists find calcium is key to slowing colorectal cancer growth

Scientists at Thomas Jefferson University found that a bacterial toxin opens a cellular door, allowing calcium to flow into tumor cells, which slows cell division and may lead to new methods of treating colorectal cancer. The discovery could also enable the use of the toxin as an intravenous infusion to treat metastatic tumors.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 10, 2003

Targeting bone metastasis and hypercalcemia

Researchers have identified two compounds that inhibit PTHrP production, reducing metastatic bone breakdown and tumor burden. The findings suggest potential therapeutic benefits for treating both bone metastasis and hypercalcemia in breast cancer patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 19, 2002

The lancet specialty journals press releases

A review highlights the association between excess body weight and increased cancer risk, particularly in colon, breast, endometrium, oesophagus, and kidney. The study suggests that alterations in hormone metabolism may play a role in this link, emphasizing the importance of weight management for cancer prevention.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 28, 2002

New treatment for skeletal metastases

A new radium isotope, radium223, has shown promise in treating skeletal metastases with less damage to bone marrow compared to traditional treatments. The isotope is incorporated into skeletal tissue via osteoclasts and emits radiation that kills cancer cells, providing pain relief and potentially improving quality of life.

PET scan results change patient management for sixty percent of breast cancer patients

A new study found that PET scans changed clinical management for 60% of women with recurrent breast cancer, including shifting from surgery to radiation therapy or medical treatment. The scan also significantly impacted disease staging, upstaging 28% and downstaging 8%, leading to more patients being classified as stage IV.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateSep 4, 2001

Encouraging results reported for new breast cancer therapy

A new treatment combination of paclitaxel and carboplatin has shown encouraging results in a clinical trial, achieving a 62% response rate and a projected 72% one-year survival rate. The treatment, which is compatible with prior anthracycline therapy, offers additional benefits for women with metastatic breast cancer.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalCancer·DateFeb 7, 2000

An Expedition Of Genetic Proportions Leads Duke Researcher To A New Culprit In Lung Cancer Metastasis

A team of researchers at Duke University Medical Center has mapped a region of human chromosome 11 and identified a new gene, RRM1, that is believed to be responsible for the aggressive nature of lung cancer. The gene's role in DNA production and repair makes it a potential therapeutic target for improving treatment outcomes.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalGenomics·DateFeb 5, 1999

Discovery of "KiSS" Gene May Help Stop Spread Of Melanoma

Researchers at Penn State have discovered a new gene called KiSS-1 that suppresses the metastasis of melanoma in laboratory mice. The gene, located on chromosome 1, reduces the spread of melanoma by at least 50 percent of the time and may be the most potent gene to block or suppress metastasis in human cancer.