Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Researchers unravel health/disease map

Researchers have generated and analyzed reference epigenome maps for 111 human cell types, revealing the complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors in shaping our genome. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding and treating diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 2015

Genomic profiling for cancer of unknown primary site

A study published in JAMA Oncology found that at least one clinically relevant genomic alteration was present in most samples tested, suggesting a potential for personalized therapy. The research analyzed 200 cancer of unknown primary site (CUP) samples and identified 169 specimens with potentially targetable genomic alterations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateFeb 12, 2015

CNIO researchers broaden the catalogue of biological chimeras for the study of the genome

Scientists have made the largest ever catalogue of biological chimeras available to the public domain. The new database comprises over 29,000 small RNA molecules that originate from different genomic regions, which could reveal useful markers for clinical oncology practice and novel drug targets for cancer treatment.

Mutant models

Researchers develop mathematical toolkit that analyzes cancer mutation data, revealing common and rare mutations have equal impact on tumor behavior. The study also finds that mutations cause subtle, precise alterations in protein communication pathways, enabling targeted therapies.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 2, 2014

New blood test determines whether you have or are likely to get cancer

Researchers developed a new blood test called the lymphocyte genome sensitivity (LGS) test, which can detect some cancers earlier than ever before. The test analyzes white blood cells exposed to UVA light and measures their DNA damage, allowing for early cancer detection and identifying those at risk of developing cancer.

Cancer risk: Aspirin and smoking affect aging of genes

Researchers have discovered that aspirin use slows down certain aging processes of the genome, while smoking accelerates them. The study found a significant correlation between aspirin use and reduced DNA methylation changes in healthy women over 50 years old, suggesting a possible mechanism for cancer prevention.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 1, 2014

The Jackson Laboratory Cancer Center earns NCI renewal

The Jackson Laboratory Cancer Center has renewed its NCI grant for another year, solidifying its position as a world-class institution in multidisciplinary cancer research. The center supports innovative projects and collaborates with major academic medical centers to develop precise interventions for preventing cancer progression.

Oncogenic signatures mapped in TCGA a guide for the development of personalized therapy

Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center developed a new approach for cancer therapy development using tumor genomic signatures. The study confirms two major hypotheses, showing that a limited number of genetic events cause most tumor subtypes and that oncogenic signatures are largely independent of tissue origin.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 27, 2013

A genome-forward approach to tackling drug-resistant cancers

Cancer biologists use a new approach to study human tumors by transplanting them into mice with crippled immune systems. The results show high genomic fidelity between the original tumors and transplanted cancer cells in mice, providing insights into drug resistance. This approach may lead to more precise treatment choices and faster d...

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 19, 2013

All set for The EMBO Meeting 2013

The EMBO Meeting 2013 conference will feature keynote lectures by prominent scientists, including Kai Simons, Hans Clevers, Sir Michael Stratton, Peter Hegemann, and Georg Nagel. The scientific programme will include sessions on stem cells, cancer genomics, optogenetics, and the search for life beyond Earth.

SourceEMBO·DateSep 9, 2013

Cancer's origins revealed

A comprehensive compendium of mutational processes explains most mutations found in 30 common cancer types, revealing the biological processes responsible. The study identifies a family of enzymes linked to over half of cancer types, and finds that DNA damage from viruses may cause collateral genetic changes.