Articles tagged with Cancer Genetics
Researchers have identified a specific location in the enhancer that, when cut, leads to increased production of fetal hemoglobin. This breakthrough may pave the way for developing gene editing approaches for treating sickle cell disease and related hemoglobin disorders.
A new study reveals that nearly half of testicular cancer risk comes from inherited genetic faults, significantly higher than in most other cancer types. The research suggests testing for specific genetic variants could help identify patients at substantially increased risk and potentially lead to prevention methods.
The new 2015 WHO Classification of Lung Tumors provides standard criteria for pathology diagnosis and clinical practice. The updated classification focuses on histologic subtyping and classification according to predominant subtype, leading to multiple new discoveries in lung adenocarcinoma.
A University of Colorado Cancer Center study identified a specific ratio of MET to centromere 7 that defines patients with MET-driven lung cancer susceptible to crizotinib treatment. This threshold has been associated with responses approaching 70 percent in clinical trials.
The new Northwestern University Center for Cancer Nanotechnology Excellence will use nucleic-acid-based nanoconstructs called Spherical Nucleic Acids (SNAs) to discover new aspects of cancer biology and create effective cancer treatment options. SNAs are nontoxic to humans, offering a versatile tool in medicine.
A recent study by H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center researchers found a significantly higher frequency of BRCA mutations in young black women with breast cancer, particularly among those under 50. This discovery may contribute to the disparity in aggressive breast cancer rates among black women compared to non-Hispanic white women.
A new genetic test identified nine key genes that can predict which myeloma patients are at risk of developing aggressive disease, leading to the development of personalized treatment plans. The test shows promise in identifying patients who may benefit from intensive treatment and improving survival rates.
A study found that multigene panel testing identified harmful mutations in moderate-risk genes and Lynch syndrome genes among 3.8% of women negative for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. The test also recommended additional disease-specific screening and prevention measures for mutation-positive cases.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have identified a novel genetic biomarker responsible for the progression of breast and prostate cancers. This discovery may aid clinicians in identifying patients who will respond better to common chemotherapy drugs that target aggressive forms of cancer.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute researcher Amity Manning is awarded $747,000 from the National Institutes of Health to explore molecular mechanisms driving genetic instability in cancer cells. The goal is to turn the genetic tables against cancer by understanding how specific molecules affect DNA packaging and organization.
Scientists at MD Anderson Cancer Center discovered the critical role of fumarase enzyme in DNA repair, revealing a key mechanism for reversing genetic damage leading to cancer and therapy resistance. The study's findings have potential implications for developing new cancer treatments by inhibiting DNA-PKs and fumarase.
A new model suggests that evolutionary pressures from healthy tissue keep cells with cancerous mutations in check. The study proposes that the ecosystem of a healthy tissue landscape allows healthy cells to outcompete those with cancerous mutations, but when this balance changes due to aging or stressors, cancer cells can thrive.
Researchers found that 35% of patients with early-onset colorectal cancer (diagnosed before age 35) have a genetic disease, highlighting the need for genetic counseling to identify high-risk family members. Gene panel testing is recommended to uncover underlying mutations, allowing for preventive measures and earlier screening.
Researchers have uncovered how key proteins can switch on RAD51, allowing it to repair cancer-causing DNA damage in cells. Women with faulty RAD51 and BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are at higher risk of developing these cancers.
A portable 'paper machine' uses DNA analysis and detection to diagnose infectious diseases, genetic conditions, and cancer in resource-limited areas. The device costs less than $2 total and can detect as few as five cells of E. coli using ultraviolet light and a smartphone camera.
Scientists have identified key genetic mutations leading to skin cancer progression, similar to those found in human cancers. By analyzing genetic abnormalities in premalignant and fully malignant tumors, researchers found that larger chromosomal copy number alterations were responsible for tumor formation, rather than point mutations.
A study found an inverse association between the risk of endometrial cancer in women with Lynch syndrome and later age of first menstrual cycle, increased parity, and hormonal contraceptive use. Women with the genetic condition may be counseled like the general population regarding hormonal influences on endometrial cancer risk.
A study by Singapore researchers established that gene p73 has both promotional and suppressive functions in tumor growth. The findings suggest that p73 is stabilized and activated under hypoxic conditions, promoting efficient blood vessel formation that supports tumor development.
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center have identified a potential non-invasive diagnostic tool for early pancreatic cancer detection. Glypican-1-enriched circulating exosomes were found to be present in small amounts of serum from patients with pancreatic cancer, showing high specificity and sensitivity. Early detection of pancreati...
A decade-long investigation by Wayne State University and Children's Hospital of Michigan researchers identified a key gene mutation that can trigger acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The mutation affects ETV6, a gene that regulates growth rates in bone marrow, leading to an increased risk of blood cancer.
A nationwide study in Taiwan found a strong association between Parkinson's disease and most types of cancer, including malignant brain tumors and gastrointestinal tract cancers. However, breast, ovarian, and thyroid cancers showed no significant link to PD.
A special issue of Future Oncology explores the role of biomarkers and next-generation sequencing in advancing cancer research and treatment. The issue highlights the potential of these technologies to provide a more precise picture of cancer and identify effective treatments.
Researchers have discovered a gene mutation associated with an aggressive form of brain cancer called anaplastic oligodendroglioma. The study found that errors in the TCF12 gene render the protein less able to bind to DNA, leading to reduced activity of other key genes, including CHD1.
The Pew Charitable Trusts and Alexander and Margaret Stewart Trust announced five early-career cancer researchers as Pew-Stewart Scholars. They will receive flexible funding to pursue innovative work aimed at advancing progress toward a cure for cancer.
Research by Thomas Werner and colleagues sheds light on pesticide resistance in Asian fruit flies and links it to cancer-causing genes, providing new insights into human health.
A University of Colorado Cancer Center study found significant genetic differences between colorectal cancer tumors in young and old patients. The study identified altered gene signaling pathways, including PPAR and IGF1R, which may be involved in the development of younger CRC tumors.
The myRisk Hereditary Cancer test assesses 25 genes for mutations associated with eight hereditary cancers. Recent studies have found that the test identifies 100.8% more mutations than BRCA1/2 testing alone, including increased mutations in breast and ovarian cancer patients.
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.
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 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.
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 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.
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.
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.