Articles tagged with Cancer Genetics
A new study published in Genetics reveals that assessing skin cancer risk can be improved by accounting for genetic factors, such as family history and ethnicity. The researchers developed a more precise model for assessing risk using phenotypic and genetic information from over 5,000 participants.
A new genetic test can accurately identify the presence of breast cancer tumors and predict the progression of tumor development. This breakthrough technology analyzes genetic switches to detect cancer growth, enabling earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment plans.
A study identified a biomarker that can predict responses to cancer drugs and offers a way to treat drug-resistant tumors. The researchers discovered that inhibition of MED12, a gene mutated in cancers, causes drug resistance by enhancing signaling through the TGF-beta receptor.
A team of researchers has identified two genetic factors behind facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), a rare form of inherited muscular dystrophy. The study found that a combination of genetic variants on chromosomes 4 and 18 cause the production of muscle-damaging toxins, leading to symptoms of the disease.
A large study published in the Journal of National Cancer Institute has identified a genetic route by which vitamin D may prevent bladder cancer. High levels of 25(OH)D3 in plasma were found to be associated with lower risk of bladder cancer, particularly in patients with more aggressive cancers.
Researchers have identified potential new prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for adult B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia. A study found that changes in the epigenetic code are linked to aggressive traits in the disease.
A study found that consuming red meat increases the risk of bladder cancer, particularly in individuals with a genetic variation in the RAD52 gene that impairs DNA repair. The study suggests limiting red meat intake to reduce this risk.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified new subtypes of gastric cancer linked to environmental factors. The study's findings suggest that these subtypes may be targeted with specific therapies, improving treatment outcomes for the second leading cancer killer worldwide.
A new study by 23andMe finds that combining family history with genetic testing provides the most accurate predictions for complex diseases. For highly common conditions like coronary artery disease, family history is essential, while genetic tests offer more value for less common diseases.
A new DNA sensor has been invented that can detect genetic material in minutes, potentially revolutionizing disease diagnosis. The Silver Nano Cluster DNA probe uses a luminous molecule to bind to specific targets, emitting light only when the target is present.
Researchers identified genetic signatures that can predict the progression of castration-resistant prostate cancer, with patients having the signature living an average of 9.2 months compared to 21.6 months without the signature. These findings hold promise for improving patient outcomes and enabling better clinical trials.
Researchers at UCI have developed a genetically modified mouse model to study degenerative diseases like Lou Gehrig's, Paget's and dementia. The model will allow researchers to study disease progression in vivo and develop novel treatment strategies.
A new clinical trial at Loyola Medicine uses a genetically engineered immune system to fight melanoma. The treatment involves removing killer T cells from a patient and modifying them to recognize tumor cells as abnormal.
Studies presented at ESMO 2012 Congress reveal that a large proportion of people overestimate the cancer risk attributable to genetics and underestimate the risks associated with obesity, alcohol, and sunlight exposure. Increasing awareness of primary cancer prevention is crucial to reduce incidence rates.
A new database compiled by researchers has linked 16 independent gene variants to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. The database, known as CRCgene, provides valuable insights for furthering research on the disease.
Researchers at Michigan State University are studying the E2F family of transcription factors in relation to HER2 breast cancer. By understanding how these genes control tumor growth and spread, they hope to develop more effective treatments.
A new study uses genetically-engineered mouse models to compare the delivery of carboplatin to melanoma tumors, finding that these models best predict human response. The research aims to improve laboratory models for cancer drug development and accelerate new therapies from lab to patient.
Researchers at URMC found that defective cholesterol exportation appears to be a key component in various cancers. They demonstrated that re-establishing the cholesterol export function in human colon cancer cells inhibited tumor growth.
Scientists at Uppsala University have successfully cloned a T-cell receptor that binds to an antigen associated with both prostate and breast cancers. This breakthrough enables genetically modified T cells to specifically kill these cancer cells, offering hope for new treatment possibilities.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center found that racial disparities impact the likelihood of finding suitable stem cell donors for non-Caucasian patients. The study revealed greater difficulty in matching donors for African-Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans, with limited access to unrelated donor HCT.
A study published in American Journal of Pathology found that two genetic mutations, beta-catenin and insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2), cooperate to induce adrenal cancer. The research provides new insights into the rare and deadly disease, which affects about 600 Americans annually, and may lead to targeted therapies.
A multi-national team of researchers has identified genetic variations on chromosomes 6p21 and 16q24 associated with Barrett's oesophagus. The discovery provides a basis for genetically screening individuals at high risk, as well as developing new therapy targets.
Researchers at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center have identified a germline BAP1 mutation as the cause of a novel cancer syndrome characterized by malignant mesothelioma and various types of melanomas. This discovery provides a visual marker for identifying individuals at high risk, enabling early detection and treatment.
A study published in Archives of Neurology found an association between Parkinson disease and an increased risk of prostate cancer and melanoma in patients with PD and their relatives. The research used a Utah genealogic database and a statewide cancer registry to examine the relationship between the two diseases.
Researchers identified protein cyclin D3 as regulating RBC production, affecting size and quantity. The protein's role was confirmed through experiments on mouse and human cells, shedding light on the control of RBC characteristics.
A study found that high mammographic breast density, a strong breast cancer risk factor, does not influence survival rates in breast cancer patients. However, low density was associated with increased risk of death among obese patients or those diagnosed with large tumors.
Researchers found that pre-test genetic counseling decreases distress in before-surgery patients, while improving informed decision-making in after-surgery patients. Both groups showed increased cancer knowledge following the counseling.
An international research team used supercomputers to analyze millions of data points and identified a complex pattern of genetic and environmental risk factors influencing congenital heart development. The findings could lead to more efficient diagnosis and treatment of the condition.
Scientists have discovered that high iron levels can cause bowel cancer in people with a faulty gene, increasing the risk by two to three times. A diet low in iron prevents bowel cancer from developing altogether.
The Johns Hopkins Center for Inherited Disease Research has received $101 million in research funding from the National Institutes of Health. The center, part of the McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, will support the genetics community in finding genes that contribute to disease through DNA genotyping and sequencing.
A new study has found a significant increase in rare de novo genetic mutations in individuals with testicular cancer, suggesting these mutations may be indicative of conditions that result in reduced fertility. The researchers propose that the paradigm of a de novo germline disease etiology may be less applicable to late-onset cancers.
A new synthetic biology method enables reprogramming of mammalian cells, leading to potential therapeutic applications such as stem cell therapeutics and in-cell devices. The approach could also equip cells with higher-order computational tasks for sensing applications.
A preclinical study published in Cancer Discovery reports genetic validation for ongoing clinical trials testing IDO inhibitors in cancer patients. The findings suggest that IDO promotes tumorigenesis by enhancing vascularization and modifying the inflammatory environment, particularly in lung adenocarcinoma and metastatic disease.
23andMe's acquisition of CureTogether expands its capacity for people-powered research and community-driven projects. The combined platforms will facilitate the sharing of genetic and phenotypic data to accelerate research discoveries.
A recent study published in Hepatology found that levels of hepatitis C virus (HCV) were higher among African-American and male injection drug users. The study also revealed that HCV RNA levels are influenced by demographic, viral, and human genetic factors, making it an important predictor of treatment response.
A new study reveals how sunburn occurs when UV radiation damages RNA in skin cells, triggering an inflammatory response that can lead to healing and potentially even cancer. The discovery may lead to the development of treatments that block this process without exposing patients to harmful UV light.
A study by 23andMe identified seven single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with breast size, including three linked to breast cancer. The analysis controlled for age, ancestry, and other factors, providing insight into the genetic factors underlying normal breast development.
A new study published in the FASEB Journal reveals that smoking before conception can damage genetic information in sperm cells, potentially harming offspring with increased risk of cancer and other diseases. The research highlights the importance of quitting smoking for men trying to conceive.
Researchers at Oregon State University have linked carcinogens to cancer stem cells and found that spinach can reduce the incidence of colon tumors by almost half.
A recent study published in Gynecologic Oncology reveals that widely available cell lines are often misidentified or contaminated, leading to faulty cancer science. Researchers suggest verifying cell lines as a prerequisite for publishing, and the team is working to build a database to help identify mismatched cell lines.
A genome-wide association study published in PLoS Genetics found six new loci associated with early onset male pattern baldness, including unexpected links to Parkinson's disease. The study also identified a risk score predictive of hair loss based on genotypes at eight associated loci.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered three sets of genetic markers that could improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes for children with a rare type of brain tumor. The study found distinct genetic signatures for each sub-type of tumor, which may lead to more effective tools for predicting patient outcomes.
Researchers have discovered JAK3 gene mutations in NK/T-cell lymphoma cells from 23 patients, suggesting the enzyme as a potential drug target. A Janus Kinase inhibitor already in phase III clinical trials for rheumatoid arthritis may also be effective against this cancer
Researchers identified a simplified fruit fly gene that splits into two complex human genes playing roles in cancer and birth defects. This split made studying the genes easier, providing unique insights into massive human MLL2 and MLL3 genes.
A team of researchers has created nanoparticles made from DNA and RNA that can deliver snippets of RNA directly to tumors, turning off genes expressed in cancer cells. The new particles pose less risk of side effects and offer better targeting due to their biodegradable nature.
A new analysis from Fox Chase Cancer Center suggests that high costs can limit access to potentially life-saving genetic testing for cancer-causing genes. Patients who are more at risk of certain cancers may be willing to pay higher costs, but others may avoid testing due to cost concerns.
Researchers identified 20 distinct mutations in a specific gene causing Familial Glucocorticoid Deficiency (FGD), leading to cortisol production issues. The antioxidant gene NNT provides a new mechanism for this adrenal disease, potentially opening doors to treating other diseases.
Researchers identified a single gene AUF1 controlling inflammation, aging and cancer. The study found that deleting the gene led to accelerated aging.
Researchers found that including genetic variants and environmental factors in disease models only increases risk prediction sensitivity by 1-3% for three common diseases. The study suggests that understanding the complexity of genetic and environmental factors will be crucial to improve risk prediction.
Researchers found that a combination of alpha-lipoic acid and N-acetylcysteine can reduce DNA breaks and chromosome instability in Fanconi anemia patients by at least 60%. This treatment may help block or delay the progression of the disease.
Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the cause of bile duct cancer by identifying several new genes frequently mutated in the disease. The research team discovered mutations in 187 genes using state-of-the-art DNA sequencing, shedding light on the molecular mechanisms of the disease.
Researchers identified a genetic pathway that influences the spread of cancer cells, which could lead to new treatment avenues. The study found that changes in genetics affect DNA methylation, causing cells to divide uncontrollably.
Researchers from CSIRO Australia found that consuming resistant starch can lead to positive changes in the bowel and may reduce genetic damage implicated in bowel cancer. The recommended daily intake of resistant starch is around 20 grams, equivalent to eating three cups of cooked lentils.
A new analysis found that Hispanic lung cancer patients have a 15% lower risk of dying compared to white patients, with black patients slightly more likely to die. The study also identified higher frequencies of less serious lung cancer types in Hispanics, which may be linked to genetic or environmental factors.
A 50-gene predictor has been found to accurately identify patients with low risk of relapse after surgery. The gene signature is related to the activity of B lymphocytes and suggests an enhanced immune response against the tumor.
Researchers have developed compounds that repress MCL1's activity and highlighted a companion gene that predicts tumor dependence on the gene. These tools suggest a path toward new therapeutics directed at MCL1, potentially effective in treating tumors where both genes are highly expressed.
Biologists at the University of Toronto found that individuals with low-quality genes can produce offspring with even more inferior chromosomes, possibly leading to extinction. The study suggests that this could result in a 'mutational meltdown' that devastates endangered populations and increases health problems.
A recent study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology reveals that Japanese patients with lung cancer are more likely to harbor specific genetic mutations and have a different risk profile compared to Western patients. The research highlights the importance of considering genetic factors in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers have identified a new breast cancer risk gene, XRCC2, using advanced genetic sequencing technology. The gene's mutations explain a proportion of breast cancers that run in families with no known genetic cause, particularly those diagnosed at an early age.
Dr. Beatrice Mintz has made significant contributions to cancer research, including her work on developmental biology and genetics. Her groundbreaking studies have helped shape our understanding of stem cell behavior and the tumor microenvironment.