Articles tagged with Cancer Genetics
A new study found that women with breast cancer who test positive for BRCA mutations are more likely to change their surgical plan, typically opting for a double mastectomy and sometimes ovary removal. Genetic testing before surgery can significantly impact treatment decisions, but may not necessarily delay surgery.
A new Moffitt Cancer Center study found that patients who received pre-test genetic counseling were more likely to recall having a discussion with their healthcare provider, suggesting improved quality of care. The study also showed that genetic health care providers ordered less expensive testing in cases where it was appropriate.
Mayo Clinic researchers have identified a new form of cancer caused by a chromosomal chimera, characterized by a biphenotypic sinonasal sarcoma. The rare tumor typically begins in the nose and may require disfiguring surgery to treat.
A new study from University College London reveals that certain human immune genes, known as APOBEC, can mutate DNA in response to HPV infection, leading to cancer. The research identified specific mutations in the PIK3CA gene, which is a common target for new cancer drugs.
The Myriad myRisk test detects significantly more deleterious mutations than single cancer tests and helps solve the overlap dilemma among hereditary cancer syndromes. The test evaluates 25 clinically significant genes associated with eight major hereditary cancers.
A new software tool, pVAAST, has been developed to identify genetic mutations that contribute to an individual's increased risk of developing complex diseases. The tool combines two statistical methods, linkage analysis and association tests, to find disease-causing gene mutations more efficiently.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University and Johns Hopkins University have identified specific genes that are responsible for breast cancer development. The study found that these genes are regulated differently in normal breast tissue compared to cancerous cells, providing new targets for therapy.
Scientists used a new technology called GRO-Seq to map the genes directly regulated by p53, a tumor suppressor gene that helps prevent cancer. The study identified dozens of new genes that are activated by p53, which could lead to new strategies for fighting cancers.
A team of researchers suggests that an epigenetic switch could control rapid growth and differentiation in cancer cells, leading to the development of various cancers. This switch is thought to be reversible, allowing cells to change their characteristics and differentiate into new cell types.
Detailed studies at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital reveal the structural details of how p53 attaches to its regulatory protein BCL-xL, enabling scientists to design drugs that release p53 in cancer cells, triggering apoptosis. The findings have significant implications for developing new cancer-fighting treatments.
Researchers identified potentially actionable mutations in cancers of the appendix using next-generation DNA sequencing. KRAS and GNAS mutations were found to be common alterations in both low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm (LAMN) and adenocarcinoma tumors.
Researchers discovered that FOXM1 and CENPF genes synergistically activate pathways associated with the most aggressive form of prostate cancer. The study identified these genes as a key driver pair in both mice and humans, and found that co-expression correlated with poor disease outcomes.
A recent study published in the Journal of Community Genetics found that only one in twenty-two high-risk women received BRCA genetic counseling. Despite having a diverse population, no significant differences were associated with factors like age, race, or family size. The researchers urge providers and patients to be more aware of th...
Researchers developed a technique to target and quantify breast cancer segments in a single cell using gold nanoparticles tagged with synthetic DNA. The method measures the unique signal produced when light interacts with the nanoparticles, allowing for accurate diagnosis and potential personalized treatment options.
Scientists have identified a genetic variant associated with a higher risk of invasive lobular carcinoma, a type of breast cancer often missed by screening. The study, involving over 6,500 women, found that the variant increases the risk of this cancer by up to 13%.
Research team discovers changes in glutathione redox potentials between cytosol and mitochondria, indicating different redox requirements for each compartment. Inhibition of GSH synthesis leads to increased mitochondrial oxidation in response to GSH depletion.
Researchers have found epigenetic changes that increase the risk of developing cancer, which affect gene expression without altering the genes themselves. The study analyzed 3,500 tumors and identified genetic polymorphisms associated with an increased risk of cancer, highlighting DNA methylation as a key factor in the disease
The technology is being showcased at the AACR Annual Meeting, where researchers are highlighting its potential for cancer research. Studies have demonstrated the use of ddPCR to track treatment response in melanoma patients and quantify mutant genes in plasma and serum.
A clinical trial found that genetic screening can help doctors customize treatments for patients with advanced melanoma, reducing cancer recurrence risk by 63%. The study used ipilimumab therapy and identified biomarker signatures to tailor treatment plans.
Professor Jerry Adams has been elected a fellow of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Academy for his outstanding contributions to understanding genes that provoke cancer and control cell death. His research has implicated key drivers of cancer development and revealed their role in cancer drug resistance.
Researchers identify two distinct types of cells responsible for different breast cancer subtypes, shedding light on the origins of breast cancer diversity. This breakthrough discovery has the potential to revolutionize personalized treatment for patients, reducing unnecessary treatments and improving outcomes.
A faster and cheaper DNA sequencing technique, NGS, will improve care for patients with breast cancer by providing genetic mutation results before treatment begins. This may lead to more women opting for mastectomy instead of breast-conserving surgery, highlighting the need for close monitoring of at-risk patients.
Researchers discovered that the p53 gene is hyperactive in stem cells when cellular damage is present, but not in other cells. This finding suggests that p53's tumor suppression ability may have evolved from its original role in regulating stem cell growth.
Cancer kills flies in a dose-dependent manner, similar to bacterial and viral infections. Researchers have established a system to disentangle the resistance and tolerance mechanisms to cancer in the Drosophila model.
A 3,000 year-old skeleton has revealed evidence of metastatic carcinoma, making it the oldest convincing complete example of cancer in the archaeological record. Analysis suggests that environmental carcinogens or infectious diseases may have caused the cancer.
Researchers identified cancer markers and a previously unknown gene role in airways of smokers with lung cancer, suggesting earlier detection and treatment strategies. The study found that normal-appearing tissue near tumors has tumor-associated molecular abnormalities, potentially aiding in diagnosis and treatment.
Sickle cell trait affects 3 million US citizens, with few aware of their status. Researchers call for improved communication of SCT results to primary care clinicians and genetic counseling on reproductive options
A study published in The Journal of Experimental Medicine reveals that gut microbes contribute to the development of intestinal tumors, leading to colorectal cancer. Disrupting gut bacteria with antibiotics prevented polyp formation in mice, suggesting a link between inflammation and tumor growth.
Researchers have made progress in designing therapies for patients with specific genetic traits, particularly in cancer treatment. However, the field still faces significant hurdles, including a need to incorporate individuals' health histories and environmental factors into personalized medicine.
Scientists at The Institute of Cancer Research have discovered that screening for certain genetic mutations in men with a family history of prostate cancer can predict the development of aggressive forms of the disease. The study identified 13 'loss of function' mutations in eight DNA repair genes, which significantly increase the risk...
A new study reveals that babies who develop leukemia during the first year of life inherit a strong genetic predisposition to the disease. The research found that infants with leukemia have an excess of damaging changes in genes linked to leukemia, which can be passed from both parents.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center reported remarkable results from a clinical study using genetically modified T cells to treat advanced leukemia. The treatment achieved a 88% complete remission rate, exceeding the response rate of salvage chemotherapy alone.
Immunologists at the University of Bonn have disproved a long-held classification of immune cells, finding that macrophages can take on multiple forms. This discovery offers new hope for treating diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and cancer.
A new study found that some common genetic variants may be indicators of rare mutations with greater influence on disease risk in prostate cancer. The research identified four common genetic variants associated with a small increase in risk, but also discovered an alternative explanation - a small proportion of men with these variants ...
A new study in PLOS Genetics finds common genetic variants may indicate the presence of influential rare mutations that have yet to be discovered. This 'synthetic association' sheds light on the genetic make-up's large influence on cancer risk, highlighting the importance of identifying causal genetic changes.
Researchers at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center found that bladder cancer subtypes are genetically similar to breast cancer subtypes. The study revealed two distinct genetic subtypes of invasive bladder cancer, basal-like and luminal, which share genetic similarities with breast cancer subtypes.
A study of over 48,000 patients and 139,000 healthy controls from four ethnic groups revealed seven new genetic regions associated with type 2 diabetes. The research provides insights into the biological processes involved in the disease and may lead to novel therapies.
Researchers identified a protein that broadly regulates mRNA editing, enabling the creation of multiple proteins from a limited number of genes. This discovery may help understand genetic mechanisms of diseases and identify new therapeutic targets.
A national poll shows that only 35% of respondents would seek aggressive preventive treatment if they had a family history of cancer and genetic testing indicated a predisposition to cancer. Despite current laws prohibiting discrimination, concerns about employment and insurability remain a major barrier to genetic testing.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh identified shugoshin as a critical protein in ensuring accurate cell division. The study found that disabling shugoshin led to increased abnormal chromosome numbers, highlighting its importance in preventing aneuploidy and potentially cancer.
Scientists have found that people carrying mutations in BRCA2 and PALB2 may be more susceptible to DNA damage caused by acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol metabolism. This could accelerate cancer growth and increase disease risk.
Researchers found that ANP32E strips histone H2A.Z from DNA, altering gene expression and leading to improper chromatin structure in cells lacking the protein. This discovery could reveal novel therapeutic strategies for diseases and cancers.
Scientists at UC San Diego have developed a new genetic platform that enables efficient production of natural molecules, including a novel antibiotic compound called taromycin A. The study demonstrates the potential for this technology to unlock the drug discovery potential of countless new microbes.
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that telephone genetic counseling is comparable to in-person counseling. The study, led by Georgetown University Medical Center, involved 669 women and showed that phone counseling reduces costs and expands access to genetic testing for rural areas.
The Damon Runyon-Rachleff Innovation Award funds groundbreaking projects that aim to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer. This year's recipients are Emily P. Balskus, Arvin C. Dar, Summer L. Gibbs, Xiaolin Nan, Moritz F. Kircher, and Eirini Papapetrou, who will receive $450,000 over three years for their innovative ideas.
An international study has developed a refined method to identify people at risk for certain inherited cancers associated with Lynch syndrome. The study uses genetic data from thousands of variants identified worldwide to classify variants of unknown significance and improve genetic counseling for families.
Researchers found that coevolution between humans and H. pylori bacteria reduced gastric cancer risk in people of African descent, but not in Amerindian descent. The study suggests that the interaction between H. pylori and human ancestry influenced disease risk, with high African-strain infection leading to worse outcomes.
Researchers have developed a DNA clamp that can detect genetic mutations in cancer with greater efficiency than current methods, paving the way for rapid screening and new nanotechnology tools. The technology uses triple helices to improve specificity and has potential applications in diagnostic tests and DNA-based nanostructures.
A study published in Stem Cells reveals that bladder cancer originates from distinct stem cells for muscle-invasive and non-muscle invasive types. Genetic profiling identified specific gene signatures associated with each cell population, which predicted tumor stage and patient survival.
Research found smoking changes genes associated with health problems like cancer and diabetes. Epigenetic modifications are likely caused by tobacco combustion, not substances in the tobacco.
A Fox Chase Cancer Center study found that relatives of patients who undergo genetic testing often misinterpret the results, with over one-quarter reporting incorrect interpretations. This can lead to a lack of understanding about their own genetic risks and missed opportunities for cancer prevention.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University have identified a key gene interaction that could be harnessed to treat various cancers. The study found that forced expression of MDA-7/IL-24 stimulates SARI expression in an autocrine/paracrine loop, causing cancer cells to undergo apoptosis.
A new multi-gene test can identify breast cancer patients at high risk of developing aggressive triple-negative cancers. The test analyzes genetic signatures associated with poor prognosis, which may reveal potential targets for new drugs and therapies.
Lynch syndrome increases the risk of colon and endometrial cancers. Screening all endometrial cancers for this genetic mutation can lead to early detection and improved patient outcomes for women at high risk.
A study led by CNIO confirms the therapeutic potential of inhibiting Aurora-A in cancer treatment, revealing an increase in dead and senescent cells and premature aging. The research proposes studying cell nucleus volume as a tool for evaluating anti-cancer drug efficiency.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered a gene that plays a crucial role in suppressing lymphoma, a type of blood cell cancer. Caspase-2 helps maintain healthy chromosome numbers in cells, preventing them from becoming cancerous.
A new study finds that 65% of Americans agree clinicians should be involved in explaining DTC genetic test results. This concern is shared by physician groups and medical journals, highlighting the importance of doctor guidance on interpreting genetic risks.
A recent study from the University of Manchester found that tumor oxygen levels impact treatment response. By analyzing gene expression, researchers can predict which patients will benefit from hypoxia-reducing agents before radiotherapy.
Researchers have identified genes associated with brain aging, revealing a heritable basis for neurocognitive deterioration and decreased white matter integrity. The study used large pedigrees of Mexican Americans to disentangle genetic from non-genetic influences on aging.
A new technique called HaploSeq enables researchers to quickly determine which genetic variants occur together on the same chromosome and came from the same parent. This advance has direct implications for personalized medicine, improving organ donation matching and understanding human migration patterns.