Articles tagged with Cancer Genetics
Scientists at Jefferson Medical College have used PET imaging to observe hyperactive breast cancer genes in laboratory animals, marking a breakthrough in detecting and classifying cancer. This technology may help physicians identify breast tumors as early as possible and determine the appropriate treatment.
Researchers at Harvard and Johns Hopkins Universities developed a new paradigm in calculating tumor development, finding that it's driven by mutations in hundreds of genes. The study suggests that individual tumors can be driven by up to 20 mutated genes, leading to better understanding and potential new treatments for cancer.
The International HapMap Project has completed its second phase, tripled the amount of genetic variation assessed and describes up to 95% of common single-letter variations in the human genetic code. This increased density of identified SNPs allows researchers to better understand disease-associated genes and detect rare disease variants.
Researchers found that when co-parents attend genetic counseling sessions with their mothers, they are more informed about testing and communicate better with their children. This increases the mom's gatekeeping role in sharing information, leading to improved child preparedness for inherited cancer risks.
UT Southwestern researchers Dr. Luis Parada and Dr. Thomas Südhof have been elected to the Institute of Medicine for their international distinction in developmental biology and neuroscience. They join a prestigious group of medical scientists shaping public health policies and advising federal governments.
A new study has identified a gene, HMMR, that may increase a woman's risk of breast cancer by more than a third. The research found that HMMR interacts with the well-known breast cancer gene BRCA1, suggesting a potential new pathway for further research.
Researchers have identified a panel of 15 genes that can serve as a biomarker for lung cancer, which may help identify individuals at high risk for the disease. The test, which analyzed gene activity in lung cells, showed a 96% accuracy rate in identifying lung cancer patients.
A leading group of scientists recommends encouraging genetic research in sports for its potential benefits in public health, but warns of ethical concerns, including perceived racism and genetic doping. The report calls for more research and debate about the implications of genetic testing on athletes.
Researchers develop bacteria to deliver anti-cancer treatments by targeting oxygen-starved areas of tumors. The treatment shows effective results in experimental animals, offering a promising alternative to traditional cancer therapies.
A genome-wide association study has identified a genetic variant associated with human height, revealing the first consistent link between genes and height. The HMGA2 gene variation adds about half centimeter in height for one copy and almost full centimeter for two copies.
Researchers developed a new technique that can detect specific chromosomal damage associated with lung cancer, which may indicate an increased risk. The study found significant differences in chromosomal abnormalities between never-smokers and high-risk smokers and patients with lung cancer.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center have identified a genetic signature associated with aggressive melanomas. The study found that certain genes are linked to an aggressive profile, which could be used to predict patient outcomes and develop tailored therapies.
A new study reveals that more than half of parents with a BRCA mutation share their genetic test results with children under 25. Many children experience initial negative reactions and struggle to understand the significance of this information. Further research is needed to address the emotional impact on these families.
Researchers found that when a specific helicase is defective, yeast chromosomes become more prone to exchanging strands during DNA repair, increasing the risk of chromosomal rearrangements. This fundamental insight into DNA-break repair may provide new avenues for understanding early-onset cancer syndromes like Bloom's syndrome.
Dr. Insoo Bae receives $2 million Komen Award to develop novel prevention strategies for women with BRCA1 mutations. His research focuses on identifying environmental carcinogens that increase the risk of breast cancer in genetically predisposed individuals.
Researchers found gene variations in interleukin 1A and 1B to be a major risk factor for lung cancer, particularly among heavy smokers. These variants can lead to an overzealous inflammatory response, causing genetic damage and cancer.
A recent study published in the journal Cell found that the ATM protein plays a crucial role in preventing genetic damage from being passed on to future generations of cells. The protein helps repair double-stranded breaks in DNA and activates checkpoints that prevent damaged cells from dividing.
The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has named 18 new Damon Runyon Fellows, outstanding postdoctoral scientists conducting innovative cancer research. The fellows will receive three-year awards of up to $375,000 to pursue their projects, supporting the nation's most promising young investigators in cancer research.
A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids found to reduce prostate tumor growth and increase survival in genetically predisposed mice. Omega-6 fatty acids had the opposite effects, highlighting a beneficial interaction between genes and diet.
UC Irvine scientists use mathematical theory to understand how cancer cells alter their genetic makeup, accelerating tumor growth. The study found that tumors thrive when unstable in early stages and become stable later on, providing insight into future cancer treatments.
Research suggests that a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids may improve prognosis for men genetically prone to develop prostate cancer. The study found that mice with a genetic defect causing prostate cancer had reduced tumor growth, slowed disease progression and increased survival when fed a high-omega-3 diet.
Researchers found that a nutritionally balanced diet high in omega-3 fatty acid reduced prostate tumor growth and increased survival in genetically predisposed mice. Omega-6 fatty acids had the opposite effects. The study suggests a beneficial effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on delaying human prostate cancer.
A study found that women with a smaller family history of breast cancer are more likely to carry the BRCA gene mutation, challenging breast cancer prediction models. This may lead to reevaluation of genetic testing guidelines and improved individualized risk management advice.
Research finds genetic links between bipolar disorder and comorbid conditions like anxiety disorders, ADHD, and autoimmune disorders. Comorbidities can complicate treatment and lead to poor health and decreased life expectancy.
Researchers have identified novel genetic mutations linked to hereditary diffuse gastric cancer, which are due to both independent mutational events and common ancestry. The study found that between 30% and 40% of families with a positive family history of gastric cancer will carry germline mutations in the CDH1 gene.
A new study identified a genetic mutation in the DAPK1 gene that increases the risk of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The mutation reduces the gene's protective activity and can be followed by a chemical change called DNA methylation, which leads to leukemia.
A recent study has discovered a strong hereditary component to aggressive prostate cancer, with patients carrying the 8q24 genetic marker having a higher risk of developing the disease. The marker is twice as common in African-American men, who also experience the disease at a younger age and have a higher incidence rate.
Researchers have identified the cancer stem cell of rhabdomyosarcoma, a childhood cancer, and uncovered a novel genetic signature driving its progression. The discovery opens up new avenues for targeted therapies to prevent recurrence and metastasis.
Researchers identified a genetic mechanism that permanently shuts down crucial genes in healthy immune system cells, which could be used to target cancer and infection treatments. The discovery was made in normal blood samples and found in a quarter of leukemia samples, highlighting the potential for this mutation as a therapeutic target.
A major new effort uncovers medium- and large-scale genetic differences between humans, including structural variations in DNA sequences that amount to 5-10% of the genome. These changes can influence disease susceptibility and normal functioning.
Researchers discovered a genetic mutation that increases muscle mass and enhances racing performance in whippets, similar to humans. Whippets with one mutated copy of the myostatin gene are more muscular and fast, while those with two mutated copies have excessive muscle and poor athletic performance.
Using erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) to treat non-chemotherapy-related anemia in cancer patients may increase the risk of death, thromboembolic events, and potentially even cancer growth. Researchers recommend a cautious approach until further scientific data is available.
Researchers at Dartmouth and UCLA discovered the last unknown enzyme in plant vitamin C synthesis, a key step in understanding how plants produce this essential nutrient. The enzyme, VTC2, is responsible for the seventh step in vitamin C synthesis, marking a significant breakthrough in the field.
Researchers found that East Asians have lower levels of the EGFR protein, but those with lung cancer tend to have increased levels. This could explain why East Asians respond better to a certain type of chemotherapy.
A new computer software tool, PancPRO, helps genetic counselors and physicians predict the chance of carrying a gene for hereditary pancreas cancer and the lifetime risk of developing the disease. The model, developed by Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center researchers, calculates a percentage score of probability that a person carries a...
Researchers found that early age at first birth protects against ERPR-positive breast cancer, but not receptor-negative. Breastfeeding was protective for both subtypes, regardless of when a woman gave birth. Women who delay childbearing may benefit from breastfeeding to reduce their risk.
Researchers found that Hodgkin's disease survivors with higher chromosomal aberrations are two-and-a-half times more likely to develop another type of cancer. Chromosomal breaks, particularly those on one chromosome arm, may serve as a biomarker for predicting second primary tumor risk.
Biologists at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center identified a set of genes working together to remodel blood vessels and promote breast cancer spread to the lungs. Targeting these genes with drug combinations may prove useful in treating metastatic breast cancer.
Researchers at the University of Utah Health have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the origins of synovial sarcoma, a deadly cancer that affects young adults. By engineering mice to develop this cancer, scientists discovered that it originates from muscle cell precursors known as myoblasts.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) established a new lecture in honor of Princess Takamatsu, recognizing Webster K. Cavenee's groundbreaking research on genetic mechanisms of cancer predisposition. Cavenee will present his inaugural lecture on April 17, highlighting the importance of collaborations in cancer research.
A new study published in PLoS Genetics used computer simulations to trace genetic changes over thousands of generations in a simulated population, testing the effectiveness of statistical genetic methods in identifying multiple genes causing complex diseases. The researchers found that known methods are limited and identified which met...
Researchers design a custom mask to camouflage abnormal gene splicing, restoring the correct genetic blueprint. The approach shows promise in treating cancer and other diseases caused by genetic mutations, with future testing planned in mouse models.
A study at Ohio State University found that losing one copy of the Wwox gene greatly increases lung cancer risk in mice. Even with one working copy, they developed five times more lung tumors than those with two copies.
Robert C. von Borstel presents cancer as an invasive process similar to species evolution, with mutations and selection driving its progression. He hopes his work will help people re-examine cancer in a new light.
A new computer tool evaluates 16 predictive features to identify genetic mutations linked to a higher risk of cancer. The tool demonstrated an accuracy rate exceeding 94% in identifying protein functions associated with increased cancer risk.
A large-scale study by Johns Hopkins University found that individuals with genetic conditions are more likely to report being denied health insurance than those with other chronic illnesses. Nearly 60% of participants believed their insurance company could access medical information without permission.
A recent study published in Nature found that a genetic defect in PALB2 elevates the risk of both breast and prostate cancer. The mutation was discovered in Finnish breast cancer families and was also identified in patients with prostate cancer, suggesting its potential role as a susceptibility gene for heritable cancer.
A new study by Washington University School of Medicine identifies distinct genetic signatures among pilocytic astrocytomas that relate to their brain region origin. This finding has significant implications for understanding the causes of pediatric brain tumors, which are the leading cause of cancer-related death in children.
A Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center team discovered that a combination of lovastatin and cyclopamine killed 63% of medulloblastoma cells, compared to fewer than 20% with either drug alone. The duo blocks cell-signaling proteins, leading to cancer cell death through apoptosis.
A new study of over 7,000 Japanese-American men found that those from large families were more than twice as likely to develop stomach cancer due to the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. Younger siblings in these families appeared especially vulnerable to the most common type of stomach cancer.
A USC study in Nature Genetics finds genes silenced by Polycomb proteins are more likely to be methylated in cancers, supporting a stem cell origin of cancer. The research also shows that epigenetic alterations precede genetic events in cancer development.
A study published in Nature found that mice lacking a critical gene for repairing damaged DNA grow old rapidly and exhibit physical and genetic changes similar to those of normal-aged mice. The researchers discovered a new type of human progeria, a rare inherited disease characterized by accelerated aging.
The study presents positive interim results of using ALDESORT to isolate cord blood stem cells, showing improved overall survival at 90.9% compared to a historical control group. The infusion of cells enriched with ALDESORT appears to improve the speed and efficacy of cord blood transplantations.
Researchers with Bank On A Cure identified genetic pathways associated with venous thromboembolisms in patients treated with thalidomide for multiple myeloma. These findings may lead to screenings and tailored interventions to prevent blood clots, as well as the development of new treatments.
Scientists have identified nine new genetic mutations in cancer cells that make patients more likely to respond to bortezomib, a common multiple myeloma treatment. These findings may help physicians tailor treatment to individual patients, increasing the effectiveness of the drug.
A new genetic theory suggests that certain offspring characteristics can only be explained by genetic cooperation between maternal and paternal genes. This challenges the prevailing view of a parental power struggle, instead proposing that positive interactions between mothers and their offspring drive imprinting patterns.
A new study aims to uncover the causes of the testicular cancer increase among 15-35 year old Caucasian men. The research will examine environmental hormone disruptors and genetic susceptibility as potential risk factors.
A systematic review found no consistent evidence linking dietary folate intake to breast cancer risk. The review also did not find a significant association between a common genetic variation in the MTHFR gene and breast cancer risk.
The Ludwig Institute has expended over $1.1 billion in cancer research since its inception, and the new gift will ensure annual research funds of approximately $2 million per center. The six US institutions will collaborate on a powerful force in cancer research.
The Ludwig Fund has given a record-breaking $120 million to support cancer research at six top US institutions. The fund will provide annual research grants of approximately $2 million per center in perpetuity.