Articles tagged with Cancer Genetics
A new study by Mayo Clinic researchers suggests that most women with breast cancer diagnosed over 65 should be offered hereditary cancer genetic testing. The study found mutations in actionable breast cancer risk genes in 3.2% of women with breast cancer, highlighting the need for broader testing regardless of age or family history.
A group of geneticists have outlined a plan to increase diversity and inclusion in their community, including boosting representation at academic conferences and addressing obstacles for underrepresented groups in research labs. The action plan aims to improve equity and fairness in the field of genetics and beyond.
A comprehensive genome-wide association study identified 13 loci strongly associated with infection or severe COVID-19, including causal factors like smoking and high body mass index. The findings could provide targets for repurposed drugs and illustrate the power of genetic studies in infectious disease.
A new study has revealed key genetic changes underlying rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive childhood cancer. The findings link specific genetic changes to aggressiveness, early age of onset, and location in the body, which can affect treatment outcomes.
A recent genetic study published in PLOS Genetics has identified MAGEA3, a gene associated with poor prognosis in liver cancer, as a potential target for new treatments. The study found that blocking the expression of MAGEA3 in liver cancer cells can prevent their growth and death, offering hope for developing new therapies.
A new multiplex technique developed at Goethe University Frankfurt allows simulating millions of genetic defect combinations and studying their effects in cell culture. This enables the identification of genes involved in cancer and other complex diseases suitable as targets for therapies.
Researchers at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center have uncovered a new mechanism that activates specific genes, leading to cancer development. They found that a mutation in two unrelated genes can promote a process called liquid-liquid phase separation, which enables the formation of compartments with varying physical properties.
Researchers at USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center found that family-based cancer clustering occurs more frequently among Latino, African American, and Asian/Pacific Islander families. The study suggests a higher inherited risk of early-onset cancer in these minority populations compared to non-Latino white families.
Researchers have identified a genetic marker in tumours from patients with high-risk neuroblastoma that can predict poorer prognosis and respond to targeted treatment. This breakthrough may lead to personalized treatment options for children with high-risk disease.
Five researchers, supported by a $12.8 million grant, will investigate computational methods for predicting immunotherapy responses, genetic elements controlling gene expression, and protein assemblies regulating gene expression in cancer.
A team of researchers developed a laboratory system to dissect the pre-cancerous steps that remained undetected until present. They found that mutant cells create a hostile environment for neighboring non-mutant cells and deregulate the normal stem cell niche in mouse intestinal tissue.
Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have developed a non-contact probe that enables the analysis of single cells within tumors without disrupting their spatial configurations. The tool can also introduce foreign materials to selected cells, facilitating advanced studies on complex diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's.
A Salk study reveals the connection between CRTC3 and melanin production, finding that eliminating the protein can reduce melanoma cell aggression. The researchers also discovered two cellular communications systems converge on CRTC3, suggesting it as a potential target for developing new treatments.
A team of scientists identified a critical checkpoint mechanism that fine-tunes gene transcription and is implicated in cancer. By targeting this mechanism, researchers found promising results in preclinical models of solid and hematopoietic malignancies.
A new study found that up to 38.6% of colon cancer patients with a hereditary cancer syndrome may be undetected by current universal tumor-screening methods. Researchers recommend implementing multi-gene panel testing as part of the standard care for all colorectal cancer patients.
A University of Seville group discovered the mechanism by which BRG1 inactivation leads to genetic instability and tumour formation. The study reveals that the SWI/SNF complex plays a crucial role in resolving chromosomal conflicts, and its mutation can cause DNA replication defects and chromosomal breaks.
A study by Vanderbilt researchers found that maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce colorectal cancer risk by nearly 40% among those with a high genetic risk. Those at low genetic risk see only a 25% reduction, highlighting the importance of prevention strategies for high-risk individuals.
Researchers discovered unique genetic signatures linked to protective processes like DNA repair in people who live beyond 105 years. They found that these individuals have more efficient DNA repair mechanisms and a lower burden of mutations in specific genes.
A computational method using machine learning and feature sets derived from molecular simulation can predict the functional consequences of genetic variation in cancer drugs. This technology has the potential to accurately diagnose cancer variants and improve treatment outcomes by tailoring therapy to individual genetic profiles.
Researchers discovered a cancer-causing gene mutation that accelerates cerebral cavernous malformation growth, leading to seizures or stroke. Repurposing an anticancer drug showed promise in improving brain-vascular health and preventing bleeding into the brain tissue.
Researchers at Osaka University identify HPnc4160 as a key regulator of Helicobacter pylori adaptation to the human stomach. The study found that strains with lower levels of this molecule are more infectious and produce higher levels of CagA, an oncoprotein linked to cancer development.
Researchers found that spatial constraints from the surrounding environment significantly affect tumor evolution, leading to diverse mutational patterns among patients. The study highlights the importance of tissue architecture in regulating tumor growth and behavior.
A study of over 150,000 European women has identified PAX8, CLPTM1L, and HLA region gene variants associated with an increased risk of developing cervical cancer. The findings open avenues for personalized screening approaches or targeted treatments.
Scientists genetically engineered myeloid cells to deliver an anticancer signal, shrinking tumors and preventing cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. The study shows promise as a potential treatment for metastatic cancer, with treated mice living substantially longer and experiencing reduced metastatic cancer.
A new technique called GETMap can trace the source of circulating DNA in the blood, which could be used to monitor organ transplant rejection, detect hidden cancers, and even screen for early asymptomatic cancers. The test identifies genetic and epigenetic markers to determine whether DNA comes from a specific tissue or organ.
Researchers at UCM identify low plasma levels of protein TGFB1 and polymorphisms in the gene as biomarkers for poor prognosis in gastric adenocarcinoma. These variants are associated with higher mortality rates and increased risk of developing stomach tumors.
Scientists have discovered that large numbers of inherited genetic mutations collectively increase cancer risk, particularly for late-onset types. This breakthrough could lead to more effective early detection strategies and personalized cancer treatments tailored to an individual's genetics.
Researchers discover histone-lysine N-methyltransferase (NSD3) as a main driver of squamous cell carcinoma lung cancer. Targeting NSD3 could improve treatment and survival rates.
Researchers developed a new cancer immunotherapy that uses engineered T cells to target a genetic alteration common among all cancers. The approach stimulates an immune response against cells with the loss of one gene copy, called loss of heterozygosity (LOH), and has shown promising results in laboratory studies and mouse models.
A new study suggests that targeted screening for prostate cancer could prevent up to 16% of prostate cancer deaths and reduce overdiagnosis by 27%. The study, led by UCL researchers, recommends screening men with a high genetic risk profile using an MRI scan before biopsy.
The CNIO team found that telomeres respond to external signals inducing cell proliferation and that blocking these signals can interfere with cancer cells becoming immortal. The study identifies telomeres as a key target of the AKT pathway, which plays a crucial role in tumorigenesis.
A study found that night shifts disrupt natural rhythms in cancer-related genes, making workers more vulnerable to DNA damage. This can lead to increased cancer risk, and researchers hope to develop prevention strategies and treatment options to address this issue.
Researchers developed a design-driven process using computational modeling to identify useful genetic designs for cellular engineering. The approach accelerates the development of new treatments for diseases by enabling the efficient identification and testing of genetic programs.
Researchers identified three genetic regions associated with skin pigmentation and severe vitamin D deficiency in African Americans. The study's findings have implications for personalized vitamin D supplementation and potential cancer prevention.
A study by Mayo Clinic researchers has identified USP24 as a frequently missing gene in pediatric patients with neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of childhood cancer. The gene plays a crucial role in protecting cells against errors during cell division and its loss may contribute to the development of aggressive tumors.
Scientists at JAIST have created a photosynthetic bacteria-based cancer optotheranostics, using NIR light-driven PPSB as an effective theranostic material for deep tumor treatments. The approach offers high tumor specificity, non-pathogenicity, and multifunctional capabilities without genetic manipulations or chemical functionalizations.
A new 523-gene panel has been developed to diagnose and treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML), identifying more genetic mutations and potential treatment targets. The panel has shown high sensitivity and specificity in detecting AML and has the potential to improve patient outcomes.
A new technique using deep mutational scanning has identified important mutations in the MSH2 gene associated with Lynch Syndrome, a major cause of hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer. This approach could improve predictive value of genetic screening for individuals at risk of developing colorectal cancer.
A recent study by University of Utah Health researchers has identified a genetic collaborator that influences the severity of the rare disease NGLY1. The gene NKCC1 moderates disease severity, with its interaction with NGLY1 affecting various bodily functions, including tear production and fluid balance.
Researchers have developed a new integrated genetic/epigenetic DNA-sequencing protocol called MultiMMR that can identify mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency in a single test. This alternative to complex testing workflows determines causes of MMR deficiency often missed by current clinical tests.
A large international consortium has identified nine genes that increase breast cancer risk, which can now be used to personalize follow-up and screening programs. The study analyzed 113,000 samples and confirms the importance of these genes in predicting breast cancer risk.
A phase 2 clinical trial using a personalized treatment approach found increased survival rates among patients with metastatic tumors in gastroesophageal cancers. The study used genetic profiling to tailor treatments, resulting in a 66% one-year survival rate and a median survival time of 15.7 months.
The INTERVENE project aims to develop novel genome-based disease prediction tools using advanced AI approaches on genomic and health data. The project will test these tools in clinical settings for cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and breast cancer.
A new study reveals that people with a genetically weakened skin barrier are more susceptible to faster uptake of common chemicals, increasing the risk of skin diseases and cancer. Researchers screened 500 participants in Sweden, finding twice as high doses of pesticides in those with the mutation.
University of Missouri scientists have discovered a genetically modified strain of salmonella that can target and kill prostate cancer cells, while leaving normal tissue intact. This breakthrough could lead to the development of personalized treatments tailored to individual patients' unique cancer characteristics.
The University of Ottawa has earned 10 Canada Research Chairs covering various subjects, including stress impacts on brain functions, Indigenous traditional cultural memories, and emerging computing technologies. The chairs will support innovative research approaches to advance knowledge and solve global challenges.
Researchers at UCLA have discovered a gene called PACS-1 that is overexpressed in cancer tissues, which can lead to cancer growth and spread. Higher levels of PACS-1 expression in the nucleus may indicate resistance to chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
A recent study suggests that a unique human genetic mutation may contribute to the high risk of advanced cancers, with approximately 30% of people still producing dysfunctional Siglec-12 proteins. These individuals are at twice the risk of developing advanced cancer compared to those who cannot produce the protein.
African American childhood cancer survivors are at a higher risk of developing cardiomyopathy, with genetic variants on chromosomes 15q25.3 and 1p13.2 identified as key factors. The study has implications for long-term follow-up and surveillance of these patients.
Researchers have developed a new method for deploying CRISPR/Cas9 directly into target cells using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) coated with green tea phytochemicals. This approach has the potential to reduce costs and increase safety compared to existing viral methods, which are currently the only approved methods in trial globally.
The study analyzed national health record data to examine the rate of positive BRCA gene variant tests among older women. Between 2008 and 2018, the trend in positive results varied by age group, with younger women showing a higher increase in positivity.
Research suggests that genetic predisposition to increased weight is causally protective for breast and prostate cancer. Heavier women are less likely to develop breast cancer due to additional differences between groups, while heavier men are less likely to develop prostate cancer, particularly when exposed to carcinogenic substances.
A recent study published in eLife found that statins may lower overall cancer risk by inhibiting HMGCR enzymes, potentially through non-lipid lowering mechanisms. The research used genetic variants from UK Biobank and suggested a possible link between statin therapy and reduced cancer risk.
A study of over 260,000 people found that genetics play a key role in sun-seeking behaviour, making it more challenging to address excessive sun exposure. The research identified five genes linked to behavioural traits associated with risk-taking and addiction.
Researchers have found that specific DNA variants can affect the response to interferon-alpha-based treatments, leading to personalized therapy options. The discovery may improve treatment outcomes for patients with polycythaemia vera, a rare chronic malignant blood disease.
Researchers found that women who deliver preterm or extremely preterm have a higher risk of dying from any cause, with 1.7-fold and 2.2-fold increased risks compared to full-term deliveries. The excess deaths associated with preterm delivery persist for up to 40 years after birth.
Scientists at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology developed a novel chemotherapeutic agent using nanotechnology and genetic engineering. The agent, called photothermogenetics, targets cancer cells with high potential and effectively regulates cancer stemness.
A targeted therapy called rucaparib has been successfully used to treat men with advanced prostate cancer who have mutated BRCA1/BRCA2 genes. The treatment resulted in a 41% objective response rate and improvements in prostate-specific antigen levels for over half of the patients.
Scientists at TU Wien have explained DNA's unusual behavior under tension using a unique combination of civil engineering and physics. The study reveals that DNA can twist more than expected when stretched, with significant consequences for biology and medicine.
Research suggests that a genetic variant common in people of East Asian descent may make them more susceptible to adverse responses to e-cigarettes. The study found that mice with this gene had significantly higher heart rates and increased oxidative stress when exposed to e-cigarette aerosols compared to those without the gene. These ...