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Blocking key pathways is a way to defeat cancer stem cells

Researchers have discovered a cocktail of drugs that effectively eliminate acute myeloid leukemia (AML) by targeting key pathways. By simultaneously blocking two important pathways, the team was able to achieve complete elimination of AML in most cases tested.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 25, 2017

Clinical trial reveals genetic fault that reduces the effectiveness of leukemia treatment

A genetic fault in the CDKN2A gene has been linked to reduced effectiveness of leukemia treatment, highlighting the need for personalized treatment approaches. The study, which treated 259 people with AML or MDS, found that those with the mutation survived for 4.5 months on average, compared to 11 months for those without it.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 26, 2017

Results of prospective randomized phase III study of the EBMT (Ricmac trial) dose-reduced versus standard conditioning followed by allogeneic stem cell transplantation for patients with myelodysplastic syndrome

The RICMAC trial found that dose-reduced conditioning followed by allogeneic stem cell transplantation improved overall and relapse-free survival for patients with myelodysplastic syndrome. Engraftment rates were comparable between the two groups, with higher non-relapse mortality after standard conditioning.

SourceEuropean Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 4, 2017

Computer trained to predict which AML patients will go into remission, which will relapse

Researchers developed a computer machine-learning model that accurately predicts which AML patients will go into remission following treatment. The model was trained using bone marrow data and medical histories of AML patients, achieving 100% accurate predictions for remission and 90% accurate predictions for relapse.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 9, 2017

More individual therapy for blood cancer patients

Researchers from Goethe University Frankfurt discovered a novel biomarker, SAMHD1, that enables accurate prediction of therapy responders and non-responders in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) patients. This biomarker can guide cytarabine-based chemotherapies to only those patients likely to respond, sparing others from toxic side effects.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 10, 2017

Personalized cancer vaccine is associated with promising outcomes for patients with AML

A personalized cancer vaccine significantly improved outcomes for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in a clinical trial, showing protection from relapse in most patients and minimal side effects. The vaccine stimulated powerful immune responses against AML cells, using the body's own defense systems to fight cancer.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 7, 2016

Simple steps lengthen lives of high-risk AML patients

High-risk acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients can live longer with quicker identification and transplantation. Researchers found that rapidly identifying genetic mutations and matching donors increased two-year survival rates from 22% to 45%. The streamlined approach could establish a new standard of care for these patients.

SourceSWOG·DateDec 5, 2016

Vitamin C may boost effectiveness of acute myeloid leukemia treatment

Researchers discovered that supplementing an epigenetic cancer drug with vitamin C enhances its ability to impede cancer cell growth and trigger cellular self-destruction. The therapy combines azacitidine with vitamin C, addressing a common deficiency in cancer patients. If successful, the approach may improve the existing therapy for ...

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2016