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Breaking the skin barrier

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel gene regulation technology that can selectively target disease-causing genes in skin cells. The treatment uses spherical arrangements of nucleic acids to penetrate the skin and deliver therapeutics, offering new hope for life-saving therapies for skin cancers and other skin ...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2012

Sun exposure and cutaneous HPV infection found synergistic in skin cancers, Moffitt says

Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center found a synergy between sun exposure and cutaneous HPV infection in developing non-melanoma skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. People with low melanin production, such as those with light skin, are more susceptible to these risks.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJun 25, 2012

Commonly used painkillers may protect against skin cancer

A new study suggests that long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin can decrease the risk of squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. The findings indicate a potential cancer-protective effect of NSAID use, which should be considered when discussing benefits and harms.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateMay 29, 2012

Protein RAL associated with aggressive characteristics in prostate, bladder and skin cancers

A study published in Cancer Research found that RalA and RalB proteins are associated with aggressive cancer characteristics in human tumors. The signature of genes changed by these proteins predicts poor outcomes. Removing these proteins from cancer cells may stop the genetic changes that cause aggressive cancer.

UCLA researchers uncover mechanism by which melanoma drug accelerates secondary skin cancers

Researchers found that blocking the mutated BRAF protein in melanoma cells sets off a cellular cascade in other skin cells with pre-disposing mutations, leading to accelerated development of skin squamous cell carcinomas. The study provides molecular insight into this side effect and suggests strategies to prevent secondary tumors.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 18, 2012

Plasmacytoid DCs: Tumor-killing immune cells

Researchers found that imiquimod converts plasmacytoid DCs into tumor-killing effector cells, clearing tumors in a mouse model of melanoma. This discovery has implications for antitumor therapies targeting both skin cancers and other types.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 17, 2012

Stop signal discovered for skin cancer

Researchers at Monash University discovered a gene that helps protect against squamous cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer. The absence of this gene is a profound driver of SCC tumours, leading to unchecked cell growth and cancer.

SourceMonash University·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 15, 2011

Combination therapy beneficial for head and neck skin carcinomas, UNC study shows

A UNC-led study shows that patients with high-risk non-melanoma skin carcinomas of the head and neck may benefit from concomitant radiotherapy and chemotherapy, achieving better outcomes compared to radiation alone. The study provides preliminary data on the feasibility of combining chemotherapy with radiotherapy.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalInternational Journal of Surgery·DateOct 4, 2011

More evidence that caffeine lowers risk of skin cancer

A new Rutgers study found that applying caffeine directly to the skin may help prevent damaging UV light from causing skin cancer. The study, which involved genetically modifying mice with diminished ATR enzyme, showed that the modified mice developed fewer tumors and had reduced risk of invasive tumors compared to unmodified mice.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2011

Pitt cancer researchers find key oncoprotein in Merkel cell carcinoma

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute have identified the small tumor protein (sT) as the oncoprotein that triggers Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC), a rare but deadly skin cancer. The discovery could improve diagnosis and understanding of MCC, potentially shedding light on other cancers.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 15, 2011

HPV infection highly prevalent among organ transplant recipients

A study of 210 organ transplant recipients with previous SCC found that BetaPV infection is extremely common, with concordant presence of DNA and antibodies increasing the risk for SCC skin cancer. The findings may lead to novel preventative or therapeutic interventions for immunosuppressed individuals.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateJul 12, 2011

Heart transplant patients at risk for serious skin cancers

A new study found that heart transplant patients are more likely to develop skin cancers, including cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. The incidence increased post-transplant by up to 30-fold, highlighting the need for improved patient education and screening.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateJun 30, 2011