Articles tagged with Cancer Genetics
A new $8.9 million research program will utilize powerful computing resources to study the systems regulating cell growth and division, potentially leading to new cancer treatments. Dr. Stuart Kauffman, a renowned theoretical biologist, will lead the program at the University of Calgary.
Researchers found a modest increase in colorectal cancer incidence in families without MMR deficiency, but no increased risk for other malignancies. These findings allow clinicians to provide more accurate and lower-risk information to affected families.
Children with childhood soft tissue sarcomas have a six-fold increased risk of developing a second cancer, with absolute risks estimated at approximately 3% by age 20. The risk is highest within the first five years post-treatment, particularly for females and those treated with radiation or chemotherapy.
Researchers developed a genetic blueprint that predicts response to two chemotherapy drugs and/or radiation therapy in esophageal cancer patients. The study found six gene variants associated with improved survival rates, with certain combinations more effective than others.
A portfolio of 173 genes is differentially expressed in patients with hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC) treated with celecoxib, suggesting the drug may suppress colon polyp formation and early colon cancer.
The study found that sulindac induced expression of the p21 gene, which suppressed tumor formation even in mice missing key tumor suppressor genes and fed a high-fat diet. The researchers suggest that p21 activation through sulindac offers protection against both genetic and dietary factors contributing to cancer development.
Researchers discovered that TGFBR1*6A gene variants significantly increase breast cancer risk in women over 50, with a 69% higher risk for those with low TGF-beta activity levels. The findings may help predict breast cancer risk in a large subset of the population and inform genetic testing options.
Research led by Ohio State University found a mutation in the PTEN gene in three people with autism and large heads, raising concerns about an increased cancer risk. The study suggests that individuals with autism and macrocephaly should be offered genetic counseling and testing for PTEN mutations.
Knudson's two-hit theory explained the hereditary and sporadic forms of retinoblastoma, launching the study of tumor suppressor genes. His work has profoundly influenced cancer research, guiding countless geneticists and molecular biologists.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers may lead to a test that prevents unnecessary thyroid gland removal in people with follicular adenoma. The study identified three genes, cyclin D2, PCSK2, and PLAB, which show distinct activity levels between noncancerous and cancerous thyroid conditions.
Researchers Elizabeth Blackburn and Janet Rowley have been awarded the Landon-AACR Prizes for Basic and Translational Cancer Research. Their work has led to a deeper understanding of telomeres, enzymes that play a role in cancer growth.
Breast cancer in sub-Saharan Africa shows similarities with African-American women's disease patterns, suggesting possible hereditary factors. Incidence rates are lower due to protective behaviors like reproductive patterns and dietary habits.
Eight prominent researchers are awarded the Presidential National Medal of Science, including R. Duncan Luce, J. Michael Bishop, Solomon H. Snyder, Charles Yanofsky, John M. Prausnitz, and Carl R. de Boor, for their pioneering work in various fields of science and engineering.
Researchers at NYU and MSKCC have discovered a conformational switch in DNA that changes the way carcinogens bind to p53 genes, potentially leading to cancer. The study sheds light on how environmental chemical carcinogens, including those found in cigarette smoke, can induce mutations and cancer.
A study by Yale University reveals that 0.8% of women with non-invasive breast cancer (DCIS) have BRCA1 mutations, while 2.4% have BRCA2 mutations, similar to those found in more advanced breast cancers. Women with these mutations are at higher risk for early detection and may benefit from high-risk screening protocols.
A panel discussion at the American Association for the Advancement of Science annual meeting explores issues of public confidence in genetic technologies. Stanford University School of Medicine associate professor Barbara Koenig addresses concerns about regulating new genetic technologies and ensuring their effectiveness.
Researchers found a link between air pollution and chromosomal abnormalities in babies, with stable alterations increasing cancer risk. The study monitored exposure to PAHs among African-American and Dominican mothers in NYC, finding higher abnormalities in those exposed to high pollution levels.
A new Stanford study has found that self-identified racial and ethnic groups correlate strongly with their genetic profiles, with an error rate of less than 0.14%. The research, involving 3,636 participants, challenges the idea that race is a social construct with no genetic basis.
Researchers have developed a way to distinguish and separate specific brain cell subtypes for genetic analysis using DNA microarrays. This technique will aid in understanding the development and function of the brain, potentially leading to new treatments for neurological disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Researchers analyzed data from Iceland's National Cancer Registry and deCODE genetics database to investigate cancer risk in families. The study found that for 16 out of 27 cancers studied, relatives of patients were at a significantly higher risk of developing the same type of cancer. Lifestyle factors like smoking and diet also contr...
Biologists at UCSD have found a fundamental mechanism used by embryonic stem cells to assure that genetically damaged stem cells do not divide and pass along the damage. The discovery reveals that p53, a protein known for suppressing tumors, plays a critical role in maintaining genetic stability.
A study examining genetic factors in lung cancer found increased risks for first-, second-, and third-degree relatives of patients with lung cancer. The risk was stronger for early-onset disease, suggesting a possible genetic component beyond environmental factors.
Researchers at Oregon State University have confirmed the results of an earlier study that found vitamin C involved in DNA-damaging compounds. The new findings reveal how vitamin C reacts with and neutralizes toxic byproducts of human fat metabolism, providing a protective role against genetic damage and inflammation.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have developed a method to detect cancer gene activity outside the body, which could lead to earlier detection and treatment of breast cancer. The technique uses genetic probes to visualize sites of cancer gene activity, allowing for potential early diagnosis and targeted treatment.
Researchers followed 87 women diagnosed with BRCA mutations who underwent BCT and found no increase in cancer recurrence risk. However, more than half suffered a cancer-related event within ten years, including 37.6% with new cancers in the untreated breast.
Researchers used gene expression profiling to develop a prognostic profile for ovarian cancer, identifying 115 genes that provide important information about prognosis. This technology holds promise for understanding the root causes of ovarian cancer and designing targeted therapies.
A study found that genetic variations in taste receptors affect the way people perceive the bitterness of alcohol, influencing their drinking habits. Individuals who are supertasters and can't taste the bitterness of PROP may consume more alcohol than those who are nontasters.
Researchers found that patients with a family history of pancreatic cancer are more likely to be diagnosed at an earlier age and have a smoking history. The study suggests that strong counseling against smoking is necessary for these patients, as well as smoking cessation programs.
A recent study found that demethylation agents not only restart cancer-suppressing genes but also knock methyl groups off other genes, turning hundreds more off. The research raises concerns about the impact of these agents on gene expression and their potential to exacerbate cancer development.
Researchers create strategy to trick ATM gene into overlooking premature termination codons, restoring full-length protein production and alleviating symptoms. The treatment uses aminoglycosides to make PTCs invisible to the cell's machinery, showing promise for halting disease progression and cancer risk in A-T patients.
A team of Hopkins researchers is using new genome searching technologies to identify genetic factors contributing to autism. They will analyze data from 465 families and 979 individuals with autism, focusing on rare genetic mutations and extra or missing gene copies.
Researchers have discovered a new mechanism for the formation of active cancer genes in T-cell acute lymphatic leukemia (T-ALL), leading to an uncontrolled growth of immature white blood cells. The study suggests using Glivec, a kinase inhibitor that targets ABL1, as a potential treatment for T-ALL patients.
A genetic predictive test identifies brain cancer patients who benefit from temozolomide, a targeted treatment. The study found a 46% survival rate for those with methylated MGMT promoter status.
A Phase II study has shown that the drug imatinib is active against a rare type of cancer called DFSP, achieving complete control in eight out of ten patients. The research team believes molecular analysis can predict patient response to treatment based on genetic profiles.
Researchers at Ohio State University have identified five genes that can distinguish between papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC), two types of thyroid cancer with different behaviors and treatments. The study's findings may lead to a valuable diagnostic tool, improving patient outcomes.
Researchers at Temple University's Sbarro Institute developed a new blood test that uses CDK9/CYCLIN T1 expression to accurately diagnose lymphoma cancer types and stages. The study, published in the Journal of Pathology, found that analyzing these molecules in a blood sample can pinpoint the presence of lymphoma with high accuracy.
Researchers have found that the threespine stickleback fish has a genetic sex-determination system similar to other vertebrates, with females having XX chromosomes and males having XY. The study provides evidence for the early formation of sex chromosomes in this species, offering insights into the evolution of sex chromosomes.
African-American women are less likely to undergo immediate or delayed breast reconstruction after mastectomy compared to Caucasian, Hispanic, Asian, and Middle Eastern women. Physicians' referral patterns and patient acceptance also contribute to these racial discrepancies.
Researchers have identified strong evidence for a prostate cancer gene on chromosome 17, which is also known to harbor the breast cancer gene BRCA1. A separate study found that a variant of the MIC-1 gene, involved in inflammation, is associated with a decreased risk for prostate cancer.
Researchers found that IKK beta deletion in epithelial cells decreases cancer incidence and tumor growth in mice by up to 80%. In myeloid cells, IKK beta deletion also reduces pro-inflammatory molecule expression, leading to smaller tumors. This study establishes the role of IKK beta in inflammation-associated tumor promotion.
Researchers successfully cloned mice from malignant cancer cells using nuclear transfer. The study reveals that the epigenetic elements of cancer can be reversed, whereas genetic mutations are not.
Researchers found genes in stromal cells were overactive in early and late-stage breast cancer specimens. Targeting these components with cancer drugs might improve treatment effectiveness. The study identified two potential therapeutic targets: CXCL12 and CXCL14.
Researchers identified 671 genes with altered expression in prostate cancer tissue, revealing a high degree of similarity between benign adjacent tissue and cancerous tissue. The study found that genetic alterations occur throughout the gland, even in seemingly benign areas, providing new insights into prostate cancer progression.
A study found that HPV DNA is present in tumors of HNSCC patients, suggesting a role for the virus in early cancer development. The findings support the idea that HNSCCs can be subdivided into two genetically distinct categories, one driven by environmental factors and the other by HPV infection.
Knudson was awarded the basic sciences prize for his role in establishing the theory of tumor suppressor genes, which opened a new horizon in modern cancer genetics. His work holds implications for both treatment and prevention, and has led to advances in understanding human cancer.
Researchers developed a reliable animal model to test new drugs for retinoblastoma, a deadly childhood cancer. The model has already identified a promising new treatment being studied in clinical trials.
Researchers have developed a gene therapy that protects bone marrow cells from chemotherapy's debilitating effects. The study found up to 41% transfer of the protective gene to blood stem cells in patients with advanced cancer, offering new hope for improved treatments.
A study of 494 cancer patients found that specific genetic variants are associated with increased fatigue and distress, suggesting a possible link between genetics and quality of life in cancer patients. The research aims to develop personalized treatments tailored to an individual's genetic profile to improve their quality of life.
Dr. Bernard Levin, a colorectal cancer expert, is honored by ASCO for his significant contributions to preventing and managing cancer. He will deliver an acceptance lecture on June 6, highlighting his leadership in multidisciplinary programs in research, service, and education.
Researchers have identified a critical regulatory region for the development of the enteric nervous system, which plays a vital role in gastrointestinal functions. Genetic mutations in this region may lead to incomplete development of the enteric nervous system, often causing Hirschsprung disease.
A study found that African-Americans are 1.67 times more likely to die within five years and 1.52 times more likely to die within ten years after surgical treatment for CRC compared to Caucasians. Racial differences were most pronounced in patients with stage II disease.
Researchers analyzed DNA samples from 414 dogs representing 85 breeds to discover previously unappreciated relationships between existing breeds. They found four genetic clusters, including a cluster containing ancient breeds with wolf-like ancestry.
Researchers use zebrafish to study human heart valve formation and cancer risk, identifying novel actin molecules and ribosomal protein genes that predispose fish to malignant tumors. The findings suggest a causal relationship between early heart function and its final structure.
Researchers report first clinical experience of preimplantation HLA matching, demonstrating feasibility for stem cell transplantation in siblings with bone marrow failure. The study involved nine couples with children affected by blood disorders and resulted in five healthy children who were HLA-matched to their affected siblings.
Researchers identified a 23-gene signature that can predict disease recurrence in Dukes' B colon cancer patients with high accuracy. The study's findings have significant implications for personalized therapy decisions and could lead to improved patient outcomes.
A recent study has found a dramatic increase in lung cancer incidence in women, with many cases occurring in non-smokers who stopped smoking years ago. The study also reveals that women's response to targeted therapies is more favorable than men, raising questions about the differences between male and female lung cancer.
The grant will fund studies on how the enzyme, DNA polymerase, accurately copies genetic information, revealing its unique catalytic selectivity and minimizing errors, which could inform cancer research.
Scientists at Fox Chase Cancer Center successfully extracted high-quality RNA from archived tissue samples using the Paradise Reagent System. This innovation allows researchers to identify genetic changes in cancer that span years, enabling personalized therapy.
Researchers found 53 smoking-induced genetic alterations in mice exposed to tobacco smoke, with CYP1B1 enzyme overexpression linked to estradiol activation. This finding may help understand why female smokers are more susceptible to lung cancer than male smokers.
Webster Cavenee receives $250,000 grant from National Foundation For Cancer Research to study cancer tumors. His research focuses on defining genetic lesions in human cancer and developing therapeutic approaches.