Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Other highlights in the October 19 JNCI

Researchers have found that combining the monoclonal antibody C225 with photodynamic therapy in a mouse model of ovarian cancer resulted in substantial tumor reduction and improved survival rates compared to single-agent treatments. This innovative approach may provide new hope for women diagnosed with this aggressive form of cancer.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateOct 18, 2005

Family history alone can imply cancer mutation risk

A study found that a thorough family history is an effective measure for cancer risk, with 20% of women with breast or ovarian cancer having a high risk of BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations. Women of Ashkenazi ancestry were more likely to have high-risk family histories than those of non-Ashkenazi ancestry.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateSep 26, 2005

Increased ovarian cancer risk not found in women with breast cancer family history

A study of 199 families with multiple cases of breast cancer found that women from these families do not have an increased risk of ovarian cancer. Despite this, the genetic mechanism for up to half of hereditary breast cancer remains unknown, prompting ongoing research at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 20, 2005

Early clinical signs of ovarian cancer

Researchers found that women with ovarian cancer were more likely to present to physicians with abdominal swelling or pelvic pain up to 12 months before diagnosis. Diagnostic testing showed only a minority of patients received necessary tests, highlighting the need for earlier detection.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateAug 22, 2005

Study suggests protein may be early warning for ovarian cancer

Researchers have found that nearly 42% of ovarian cancer patient tumor tissues contain alterations in the protein km23. This discovery suggests km23 as a possible diagnostic indicator and therapeutic target for ovarian cancer. Further studies aim to develop a screening test and targeted therapies using km23.

SourcePenn State·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 12, 2005

Ovarian cancer risk and consumption of milk products and lactose

A meta-analysis of epidemiological studies found a positive correlation between milk consumption and an increased risk of ovarian cancer. High intakes of dairy foods and lactose may contribute to this association, with a 13% increase in risk seen for every 10 grams of lactose consumed daily.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateAug 5, 2005

The link between physical activity and ovarian cancer

Researchers found a decreased risk of certain types of ovarian tumors with moderate recreational physical activity, but not others. Physical activity also regulates hormone and growth factor levels, reducing ovarian cancer risk by affecting obesity.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateMay 16, 2005

New blood test for ovarian cancer screening

Researchers at Yale University have developed a new blood test for ovarian cancer screening using four biomarkers, showing high sensitivity and specificity. The test predicts cancer in patients whose levels of two or more biomarkers fall within a certain warning area.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 9, 2005

Another look finds promising proteomics test is not biologically plausible

A study found that the experimental test's effectiveness was undermined by technical issues and biological implausibility, casting doubt on its potential as a reliable diagnostic tool. The researchers emphasize the need for standardized protocols in proteomics research to ensure reproducibility of results.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 15, 2005

USC researchers find evidence that progesterone signaling influences ovarian cancer risk

Researchers from USC found evidence that progesterone signaling influences ovarian cancer risk, particularly two haplotypes (4-D and 4-E) that increase risk by almost 3.5-fold in women who carry them. The study's findings suggest that subtle changes in the progesterone receptor gene may decrease its efficiency, leading to ovarian cancer.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 4, 2005

Researchers call for studies on role of BRCA1 mutations in chemotherapy response

BRCA1 mutations are found in only 5% of breast and ovarian cancers, but loss-of-function mutations can significantly increase cancer risk. Researchers review preclinical and clinical evidence to determine if BRCA1 function can predict chemotherapy response, highlighting the need for prospective studies.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 16, 2004

Doctors transplant ovary to woman's arm to preserve fertility

In a breakthrough procedure, doctors have successfully transplanted a healthy ovary from a patient's body into her upper arm, preserving her fertility. The innovative technique uses brachial vessels to establish blood supply and has shown promising results in maintaining cyclical follicular growth.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateNov 8, 2004

Ovarian cancer rates across Europe

Research found ovarian cancer rates levelling across Europe, with declining incidence and mortality rates in northern countries, particularly among younger age groups. In contrast, southern and eastern European countries saw increasing cancer incidence and mortality rates.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateOct 25, 2004