Research on the genetic drivers of cancer. Covers childhood-cancer drivers, AI mutation detection, faster lymphoma diagnosis, and precision immunotherapy trials.
Scientists have discovered a rare, inherited gene mutation that significantly increases the risk of pancreatic and other cancers. The RABL3 mutation was found in a family with multiple relatives diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and zebrafish carrying the mutation also showed dramatically higher rates of cancer.
Researchers discovered how the process of cell differentiation is orchestrated during embryogenesis, revealing the DNA sequence code of a key gene called hunchback. By understanding how this 'on/off switch' works, scientists gain new insights into genetic activity and its implications for birth defects and disease.
A new study found that genetic testing motivates people at risk of developing melanoma to change their behavior, including reducing sun exposure. Participants who received genetic counseling showed sustained reductions in UV radiation exposure and lighter skin pigmentation over time.
A new study has established the strongest evidence yet of a causal relationship between obesity and various serious conditions. The research analyzed data from the UK Biobank to assess associations between body mass index (BMI) and disease outcomes in 337,536 people.
Scientists have developed a new computational method that reveals genetic patterns in individual cells, enabling the diagnosis of specific genetic defects and potentially rectifying them with CRISPR. This breakthrough advances precision medicine by providing personalized treatment options for patients with unexplained infertility.
Researchers will investigate loss of DNA repair mechanisms and secondary mutations leading to cancer. The goal is to develop improved cancer treatment regimens and predict drug efficacy.
Research analyzed mortality rates among 10,451 MLB players from 1906 to 2006, finding differences in death rates by position and career length. Longer playing careers were associated with lower cardiovascular-related deaths but increased cancer deaths.
Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute found that low doses of radiation increase p53 mutations, giving cancer-capable cells a competitive advantage. However, antioxidants can boost healthy cells to outcompete mutant cells.
Research at the University of Sussex identified how genetic variations in two main EBV strains impact their behavior in infecting white blood cells. These differences affect the virus's ability to drive rapid cell growth, a key factor in the development of lymphoma.
Ashkenazi Jewish women with known BRCA status have a 98% 5-year survival rate compared to 74% for those without knowledge, requiring less chemotherapy and extensive surgery. Early testing could prevent breast cancer or start high-risk screening at an earlier age.
Researchers identify DNA-PK as a master regulator of gene networks promoting aggressive prostate cancer behaviors. A clinical trial combining standard-of-care with a first-in-man DNA-PK inhibitor shows promising early results.
A new study found that gastric cancer is affecting more young Hispanic people in the US, with poorer outcomes than older patients. Women under 40 were more likely to have diffuse-type tumours and stage IV disease at diagnosis, leading to a median overall survival of just 7 months.
Researchers found that cancer cells respond differently to targeted drugs based on tumour type and genetic weaknesses. The study suggests rethinking precision medicine and designing clinical trials with both gene faults and tumour type in mind.
Researchers analyzed RNA sequence data from human stem cells as they developed into cardiomyocytes, identifying hundreds of genes associated with varying expression. These 'shooting star' differences may explain complex diseases like cancer and heart disease.
Researchers found that children with chromosomal defects were almost 12 times more likely to develop cancer than those without birth defects. Children with non-chromosomal defects had a 2.5 times increased risk of cancer compared to those without birth defects.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified a specific genetic marker linked to an increased risk of breast cancer in premenopausal women. The study found that up to 40% of women carrying the genetic variation are at higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to those without it.
DNA microscopy enables spatially mapping genetic material without optical equipment, allowing researchers to track molecular positions and variations. The technique has potential applications in understanding biological processes, cancer, and immune system development.
Researchers from CRCHUM identified the genetic signature of an ineffective immune response to cancer, including 28 genes that are also found in patients with other diseases. This signature could help predict which patients will fare worse.
A nationwide register study found no increased risk of congenital malformations in children conceived after their fathers received radiotherapy or chemotherapy treatment for testicular cancer. The study, published in PLOS Medicine, followed 4,207 children of 2,380 fathers and compared the risks before and after treatment.
A new genetic basis of a type of brain aneurysm has been identified, suggesting that an existing cancer drug can counter its effects. Researchers have discovered 'gain-of-function variants' in the PDGFRB protein, which causes it to remain locked in a hyper-active form.
A new blood biopsy technique allows for comprehensive genetic profiling of cancer cells, capturing variation among cells within a single patient. This improves treatment monitoring and targeting by identifying genes active in cancer cells and tracking their response to therapy.
Researchers found that tumors with a higher degree of microsatellite instability (MSI) are more likely to respond to immunotherapy. MSI-high tumors have a higher amount of indel mutations, which can generate neoantigens recognized by the immune system.
A phase I clinical trial using stem cell immunotherapy will be tested on patients with advanced sarcomas and the NY-ESO-1 tumor marker. The treatment aims to generate a lasting immune response against cancer by modifying blood-forming stem cells and T cells to target specific proteins.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine developed a gel-like platform that activates and multiplies cancer-fighting T-cells, outperforming traditional methods in mouse experiments. The artificial lymph node technology has potential for regenerative immunology-based therapy.
A new study published in the Journal of Hepatology reports that whole-exome sequencing (WES) can diagnose the genetic cause of liver disease in a significant proportion of adult patients. The analysis identified four monogenic disorders in five unrelated adults, enabling new treatment options and shedding light on underlying molecular ...
A new algorithm developed by Stanford researchers can accurately identify individuals at risk of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), a cholesterol-raising genetic disease that increases the risk of early and fatal heart problems. The algorithm, trained on data from over 200 FH patients, correctly flagged 88% of cases in testing runs.
A new online tool allows researchers to determine the genetic ancestral origin of over 1300 cancer cell lines, revealing a lack of representation from diverse populations. The study found that European and East Asian origins were overrepresented, while African American and Hispanic/Latino origins were underrepresented.
A common genetic variant on the 5p15.33 locus is associated with a high risk of stroke in childhood cancer survivors who received cranial radiation therapy (CRT). The study found that survivors who carried this variant had nearly three times the risk of developing stroke compared to those without it.
A phase I clinical trial and FDA expanded access program show LOXO-195, a next-generation TRK inhibitor, is safe and effective in patients with NTRK gene fusions resistant to first-generation TRK inhibitors. The study found that LOXO-195 induced responses in patients whose tumors had acquired specific mutations.
Researchers found tarloxotinib effective against various cancer types, including ovarian and breast cancers with NRG1 gene fusions. The drug targets low-oxygen conditions, making it potentially more tolerable than existing therapies.
Researchers from the CNIO Hereditary Endocrine Cancer Group have identified a new gene, DLST, involved in the development of paragangliomas and phaeochromocytomas. Mutations in this gene were found to be directly linked to the disease, providing a potential breakthrough in diagnosis and treatment.
The Cancer Control and Survivorship Program at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has been awarded the 13th annual AACR Team Science Award for its innovative research advancing childhood cancer treatment and long-term survival outcomes. The program's work has significantly contributed to our understanding of pediatric cancer epidemi...
Researchers found that mda-7/IL-24 reduces the expression of an enzyme called DICER, which processes microRNAs for specific cellular functions. This effect occurs only in cancer cells and provides potential therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.
A study found that high-fructose corn syrup consumption enhances tumor growth in genetically predisposed mice with intestinal adenomas. The researchers discovered that HFCS leads to dramatic increases in tumor size and grade through altered metabolism, independent of obesity.
The study analyzed tumor DNA from 843 patients with colorectal cancer, identifying associations between genetic mutations and treatment responses. Patients with microsatellite instability had longer survival when treated with bevacizumab, while those with high tumor mutational burden lived longer than those with less variation.
A team of scientists has discovered a unique genetic signature, or 'fingerprint', in cancer cells that can be targeted to selectively eliminate abnormal cells. This breakthrough could lead to more effective and less toxic cancer treatments.
Researchers found that younger patients with early-onset colorectal cancer have unique genetic mutations and subtypes of the disease. Patients with predisposing conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, also exhibit distinct clinical and genetic characteristics compared to those without such conditions.
Researchers at Bar-Ilan University discovered the intricate molecular mechanism of the guidance receptor 'Robo', which reacts to signals in its environment while avoiding premature activity. The findings provide a basis for designing effective drugs targeting Robo receptors, potentially treating various neurological and cancer conditions.
Scientists have developed techniques to track the global changes in gene activation caused by MYC, a potent cancer gene. The new toolkit reveals subtle differences in gene expression between individual cells, which may lead to cancer.
A team of biologists has discovered a key aspect of chromosome inheritance that helps ensure the faithful passage of short chromosomes during reproduction. They found that vast regions near the ends of both long and short chromosomes are primed for high-density genetic exchanges, known as EARs.
A new study found that many commercial cell lines used for laboratory studies are mislabeled as minority ancestry, leading to a lack of diversity and hindering the development of precision medicine for underrepresented populations. Researchers call for more diverse biospecimens to be used in scientific investigations.
Dr. Carl June is being honored by ACGT for his lifesaving CAR T-cell treatment, which was the first-ever FDA-approved gene therapy for cancer. The funding from ACGT sustained Dr. June's research, allowing it to continue and ultimately lead to promising treatments.
A research team at the University of Louisville discovered that SA-4-1BBL boosts CD8+ and CD4+ T cells to target tumors for destruction. The molecule protects healthy mice from various cancer types when exposed to tumor cells, showing promise in cancer immunoprevention.
Researchers identified a new genetic cause of multi-tumor syndrome, which increases lifetime risk for patients with colorectal and breast cancers. The study found that rare NTHL1 gene mutations lead to the development of both diseases.
FinnGen aims to produce comprehensive genome variant data from 500,000 participants, combining health data from national registries. This enables correlations between genetic factors and health outcomes, enriching drug discovery programs.
A Rutgers study has identified the NSD2 gene as a key indicator of prostate cancer's likelihood to spread. The gene's targeting could lead to early detection and longer patient survival rates.
Researchers identified a link between BRCA2 mutations and aggressive prostate cancer in men, increasing their risk of developing other cancers. The study also found that patients with BRCA2 mutations have poorer treatment responses and outcomes.
A new study by the BabySeq project explores the effects of genetic testing on newborns, revealing unexpected risks for childhood diseases. The research also found potential links to adult-onset cancers, highlighting the importance of long-term follow-up to assess the test's efficacy.
Researchers examined cancer metabolism using flux-balance analysis and found that the Warburg effect provides a growth advantage for tumors, while glutamine addiction does not. The study also sheds light on the relationship between healthy cells and tumor cells under the reverse Warburg effect.
Researchers have genetically modified a common houseplant to remove chloroform and benzene from the air, two hazardous compounds linked to cancer. The modified pothos ivy plants express a protein that converts these pollutants into harmless molecules, which can support plant growth.
A recent study published in eLife found a strong relationship between copy number changes in genes and cancer patient outcomes. The researchers identified specific biomarkers that can determine a patient's prognosis, providing new hope for personalized cancer treatment.
Researchers at Yale University discovered genetic variants linked to DNA repair, immune response, and cancer suppression in giant tortoises that enable them to live over 100 years. These findings provide new insights into aging research and could lead to breakthroughs in human health.
Researchers have identified a genetic change common to 80% of human melanomas and developed a molecule that targets this change. The molecule binds to melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on the surface of melanoma cells, allowing for imaging and potential therapy delivery.
Researchers fully described the mechanism of fungal luminescence, utilizing four key enzymes to produce light. They also created an entirely new molecular instrument for biotechnology by engineering a yeast strain that glows in the dark.
Researchers found LZTR1 contributes to human diseases by acting as part of ubiquitin ligase complex that mediates conjugation of ubiquitin to RAS proteins, reducing its activation and downstream signalling. This discovery may lead to novel therapeutic approaches for RAS-driven diseases.
The CanSUR summer program at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine will support 32 undergraduates annually in cancer-focused research. The five-year NIH grant will provide a solid foundation in cancer science and laboratory experience.
A new molecule called TIM-3 has been identified as a potential target for immunotherapy treatments in patients with cancer and other diseases. The protein plays a key role in regulating the immune response, and its suppression or inactivity can lead to uncontrollable T cell activation and the development of rare forms of lymphoma.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a new platform that uses biology and nanotechnology to carry mRNA directly to target cells. The system demonstrates safe and effective passage of therapies for treating various diseases, including cancer and inflammatory disorders.
A new test developed by scientists at the University of York can accurately identify life-threatening prostate cancers, which could lead to fewer unnecessary surgeries and radiotherapies. The test has shown a high accuracy rate of up to 92%, potentially reducing healthcare costs and side effects for patients.
Researchers discovered that cancer-associated genetic mutations are prevalent in healthy esophageal epithelium tissue, accumulating with age. By middle age, over half of the tissue contained mutant clones, suggesting a potential origin for esophageal cancers.