Articles tagged with Cancer Genetics
Researchers at the University of Louisville have successfully treated stage IIIb to IV melanoma patients with a modified cold sore virus, resulting in improved survival rates. The therapy, talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC), stimulates the immune system to fight cancer cells and has been shown to extend patient survival by 20 months.
While advances in technology have made multigene testing useful in predicting breast cancer risk, clinicians need awareness of its limitations. Recent studies suggest that low-cost genetic testing solutions may cause undue anxiety and stress due to lack of information about many genetic variants.
Researchers found that women who adhered to a Mediterranean diet most closely lowered their risk of womb cancer by more than half. The diet's components included eating lots of vegetables, fruits and nuts, pulses, cereals and potatoes, fish, monounsaturated fats, and moderate alcohol intake.
A genetically engineered herpes virus has been shown to halt the progression of skin cancer by killing cancer cells and sparking an immune system response against tumours. The trial involved 436 patients and showed a durable treatment response in 16.3% of patients, with responses extending past three years.
Researchers found that adding genetic information to a smoker's clinical risk profile results in improved lung cancer screening adherence, with higher-risk individuals more likely to adhere to follow-up CT scans. The study suggests that gene-based risk assessment can improve screening compliance and reduce the need for reclassification.
Researchers have developed a strategy for creating customized cancer vaccines based on the unique genetic blueprint of each tumor. By identifying relevant mutations and using synthetic RNA vaccines, they have shown promising results in animal models, paving the way for targeted treatment of various types of cancer.
Researchers found that inactivating Lhx2 in mature neurons can reprogram them to process different senses, expanding one region at the expense of another. This discovery provides proof of brain plasticity and may lead to new therapeutic approaches for treating human disorders such as autism.
Researchers have developed a new method to assess cancer risk from certain common environmental pollutants, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The study found that analyzing the genetic responses of skin cells exposed to these pollutants can predict their potential to cause cancer.
A recent study found that almost half of patients opted out of comprehensive cancer gene screening due to concerns about uncertainty and potential distress. Pre-test counseling significantly reduced anxiety in these patients, but highlighted the need for individualized guidance before genetic testing.
A study by Manchester researchers has identified genetic subtypes in high-risk endometrial cancer patients, allowing for more targeted treatments. The classification of these subtypes can predict patient relapse and identify specific mutations that can be targeted with anti-cancer drugs.
Researchers have found evidence of a potential sixth DNA base, methyl-adenine (mA), in complex organisms including humans, algae and worms. This discovery could have significant implications for our understanding of epigenetics and gene regulation.
A study of 855 Gothenburg men born in 1913 found that factors such as not smoking, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, and a strong socio-economic standard contributed to their longevity. Additionally, correlations with maternal longevity and robust working capacity were also identified.
Researchers discover TMPRSS2 gene as key player in triggering severe forms of cancer pain. The discovery could lead to targeted therapies shutting down the expression of this gene or its ability to infiltrate pain receptors.
Scientists have developed a method to introduce non-native chromatin into cells, allowing them to systematically interrogate transcriptional signaling pathways. This approach enables researchers to propose mechanistic pathways and validate hypotheses in vivo, paving the way for potential therapeutic applications.
A gene expression model called COXEN predicts canine osteosarcoma response to doxorubicin, potentially allowing veterinary oncologists to choose the most effective drug. The approach validates human models used to predict drug response in clinical trials.
Dr. Mario Capecchi has made significant contributions to cancer research through his development of gene targeting technology, revolutionizing the study of cancer genes and mechanisms of cancer development. He will be presented with the AACR Award for Lifetime Achievement in Cancer Research at the 2015 Annual Meeting.
A recent study published in the JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute found a surprising association between shorter telomeres and decreased cancer mortality. The researchers analyzed data from two prospective cohort studies involving over 64,000 individuals and discovered that those with longer telomeres had higher genetic sc...
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a wealth of genetic diversity in pancreatic cancer, including multiple mutated genes that were previously unknown. The study also revealed potential diagnostic biomarkers and defined cases where certain drugs are selectively effective against specific mutations.
A test for 77 genetic risk factors showed a significant link between a woman's polygenic risk score and her breast cancer risk, with those in the top 20% being 1.8 times more likely to develop breast cancer than average women.
A University of Colorado Cancer Center opinion argues that announcing the causality could save lives. The link between UV tanning and skin cancer is supported by eight out of nine criteria used to determine a causal relationship in disease, including strength of association, consistency of association, and temporality.
A third of breast cancer patients report strong desire for genetic testing but many do not receive relevant discussions with healthcare professionals. This study highlights the unmet need for addressing genetic risk in these patients.
A Mayo Clinic-led team has combined 77 common genetic variants into a polygenic risk score to improve breast cancer identification. The score is associated with a higher or lower risk of developing breast cancer, and can be used in conjunction with traditional predictors to personalize estimates.
Researchers identified a panel of genetic markers that predicted which tumor samples would likely respond to treatment for chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, a cancer affecting older adults with limited treatment options.
Moffitt scientists are using a new theory called the Big Bang model of cancer heterogeneity, which suggests that mutations occur early during tumor development. This approach has significant implications for treatments, as it recognizes that tumors can change during treatment and that current therapeutic approaches ignore this fact.
Researchers have discovered a new function for the retinoblastoma gene, which plays a central role in stopping healthy cells from dividing uncontrollably. The gene also helps to mend broken strands of DNA by forming clusters with other proteins, opening up new approaches to cancer treatment.
Dr. Mitchell Gail recognized for pioneering statistical work in cancer research, including breast cancer risk prediction models. His research has led to the development of widely used tools like the NCI's Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have discovered that it is possible to detect endometrial cancer using tumor DNA picked up by ordinary tampons. The study found higher methylation levels in vaginal secretions from women with endometrial cancer, suggesting a potential tool for early detection.
A recent study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that men who exercise more have better erectile and sexual function, regardless of race. Higher levels of physical activity were associated with improved scores for sexual function, including the ability to have erections and orgasms.
A pioneering class of drugs targeting BRCA breast cancer genes may also work against tumours with CLBC gene defects. Researchers found that CLBC-defective cancer cells are vulnerable to PARP inhibitor drugs, opening up new treatment possibilities for a broader group of patients.
A new genetic method called MCR enables biologists to rapidly generate mutations in both copies of a gene, accelerating genetic research on diverse species. This method has the potential to control insect-borne diseases such as malaria and animal/plant pests by disseminating genetic elements with high efficiency.
Researchers at SDSC and UCSD have described the molecular mechanism of cancer development caused by well-known EGFR mutations in non-small cell lung cancer. Computer modeling elucidated their molecular mechanism of action, suggesting that antibodies targeting dimerization would be effective treatments.
Regular use of aspirin or NSAIDs reduces colorectal cancer risk, but rare genetic variants do not offer the same benefit to some individuals. The study found a 30% reduction in risk for most participants, but no protective effect for those with certain genetic variations.
A recent study defines a distinct subtype of aggressive prostate cancer marked by MAP3K7 and CHD1 gene loss, accounting for 10% of all cases and 25% of fatal outcomes. Researchers used stem-cell models to show that these genetic changes disrupt healthy tissue formation, leading to hybrid cells with aggressive characteristics.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have developed a method to genetically engineer immune cells to combat Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), a third most common cancer in Chinese males. The engineered T-cells use Epstein-Barr virus presence to fight NPC, offering a promising new treatment approach.
Biomedical ethicists review current arguments on disclosing genetic information of the deceased and offer suggestions for developing policies. They propose passive postmortem disclosure policies, where access to genetic info is provided at family members' request under certain circumstances.
A new UK-based study reveals that statin users have a lower risk of developing liver cancer compared to non-users. The study found the association was strongest among current users and those with pre-existing conditions like diabetes or liver disease.
A Cancer Research UK study found that serous ovarian cancers with diverse genetic profiles are more likely to become resistant to chemotherapy and recur. This variability affects the prognosis of patients with these tumors, leading to earlier deaths compared to those with less varied tumors.
A study published in Nature Genetics reveals that the tissue surrounding tumor cells holds the key to classifying colon tumors into good or bad prognosis. By analyzing this tissue, scientists can identify patients at risk of relapse and develop targeted treatments using TGF-beta inhibitors.
A study found that most UK women (85%) would back the idea of more frequent breast screening if they are at higher genetic risk of developing breast cancer. Women at lower genetic risk were less supportive, but still willing to participate in screening with proper information and support.
Researchers have found that mutations in the PTEN gene lead to reduced activity and stability of a critical protein, promoting genetic instability and disease. This discovery could pave the way for new treatments for patients with both autism and cancer.
Researchers have developed a new algorithm called Gene Rank (GR) to describe gene connectivity, which can be used for disease prognosis and early cancer detection. GR is based on gene expression data and reflects how well a particular gene is connected to other genes.
Researchers estimated that by age 80, CDH1 mutation carriers have a 70% chance of developing gastric cancer and a 42% risk of breast cancer. The study provides more precise estimates for carriers of the CDH1 gene mutation, a cancer predisposing gene associated with hereditary diffuse gastric cancer.
Scientists have created a new model organism for studying aging in the naturally short-lived African turquoise killifish. The researchers developed a genome-editing toolkit, allowing them to rapidly manipulate genes and study aging-related diseases.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that the order of genetic mutations acquired determines how cancer behaves. The study found that patients who acquire mutations in JAK2 prior to those in TET2 are more likely to develop a severe red blood cell disease subtype and suffer from blood clots.
African American women are at higher risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer due to unique genetic mutations. The study found novel genomic segments shared among family members with breast cancer, supporting the hypothesis that specific genes may be unique to this population.
Researchers at NIH identified chromothripsis as the reason for a patient's spontaneous cure of WHIM syndrome. The study showed that a random deletion of mutant CXCR4 gene in stem cells led to normal neutrophil function.
Scientists at Lund University have discovered a way to identify the most malignant tumours in children by studying genetic micro-variation. The study found that the degree of genetic variation between cells is linked to the severity of cancer in children, making it a potential marker for predicting treatment outcomes.
Researchers identified a genetic mutation that may contribute to tumours becoming resistant to current treatments. The study also found a link between defective copies of the DNA repair gene XRCC2 and platinum-based chemotherapy resistance.
Epidemiological and pre-clinical studies suggest coffee has a protective effect against non-melanoma skin cancers, but the link to cutaneous melanoma is less clear. A study found that high coffee intake was inversely associated with a 20% lower risk of malignant melanoma, especially in caffeinated coffee drinkers.
A new study reveals that a specific gene, ATDC, plays a key role in the development of pancreatic cancer by promoting tumor growth and spread. The study found that patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer have a survival rate of only 30 percent.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a method to amplify gene samples containing damaged DNA adducts, which are common in cancer. This breakthrough could enable the analysis of molecular mechanisms involved in cancer initiation and risk factors.
Scientists have discovered a novel interaction between AEG-1 and Akt2 proteins that regulates malignant characteristics of GBM, offering new therapeutic potential. Disrupting this interaction in preclinical experiments showed reduced GBM cell survival and invasion.
Researchers found that up to a quarter of patients with bowel cancer who have a family history could have their cancer caused by genetic mutations identified through gene testing. This could lead to improved diagnosis, treatment, and early detection for both the patient and their relatives.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University have discovered a novel microRNA-gene interaction that could lead to new therapies for malignant glioma, the most common and deadly form of brain tumor. Increasing miR-184 expression slows glioma cell growth by regulating SND1, a cancer-promoting gene.
A nationwide survey of American adults reveals that healthy individuals react strongly to hypothetical genetic risk information, wanting to take various actions such as seeking information and managing risk. The study's findings suggest that the experience of living between health and disease is not limited to those already patients.
Researchers found an association between smoking and loss of the Y chromosome in blood cells, which may explain why men have a shorter life expectancy. Heavy smokers showed more frequent loss of the Y chromosome than moderate smokers.
Researchers discovered lactate plays a key role in ASPS tumor cells' behavior, fueling their growth and aggressiveness. The study also confirms the fusion gene ASPSCR1-TFE3 as the driver of this rare cancer.
Researchers used computational modeling to examine the role of genetic mutations in cancer growth, finding that genes never observed in cancers may be the best targets for therapy. Targeting these 'never mutations' in combination with therapies targeting driver genes was found to be highly effective.
Researchers used big data to identify crizotinib as a possible new coating for drug-eluting stents, which could reduce in-stent stenosis without affecting the endothelium. The study found that crizotinib reduced plaque buildup in blood vessels and prevented the narrowing of arteries after stenting.
A study of 95,766 Danish participants found that genetically low vitamin D levels were associated with increased all-cause mortality and cancer mortality. However, the study did not find a link between vitamin D levels and cardiovascular mortality.