Articles tagged with Cancer Genomics
Scientists have identified novel epigenetic markers in melanoma that can be used to develop new treatments. The markers, which are alterations to DNA chemical modifications, were found to be correlated with gene repression and can be reversed by treating cancer cells with a drug called decitabine.
A team of scientists and clinicians co-led by Joe Gray and Dennis Slamon will study three subtypes of breast cancer: estrogen receptor positive, HER2 positive, and triple negative. Their goal is to match a tumor's genetic profile with the best therapy, using cutting-edge biological, genomic, and computational techniques.
Researchers have identified a common genetic variation associated with the risk of colorectal cancer and its functional implications. The study found that this variation causes the expression of a nearby gene, SMAD7, to decrease, leading to critical signaling events that can set cells on the path to cancer.
Researchers found Rad60 DNA repair factor mimics SUMO to maintain genome stability during replication, preventing genetic defects and promoting cell viability. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms of genome protection and potential implications for cancer and aging.
Researchers at Singapore's Genome Institute of Singapore and the US have identified microRNA-125b as a novel regulator of the p53 tumor suppressor gene. The study found that this microRNA keeps p53 levels low during embryonic development, but allows for an increase in p53 to prevent tumor formation if DNA is damaged. Elevated levels of...
A study mapping epigenetic marks in three oncogenic viruses found that viral genomes become progressively methylated in patients who developed cancer. This modification may help viruses evade the immune system and is a promising target for new prevention, diagnosis, and treatment methods.
Researchers have identified a genetic signature in normal tissue surrounding liver tumors that can help predict patient recurrence. This finding has the potential to unlock biological information in millions of clinical samples previously inaccessible to genomic study.
Researchers used a new technique to study gene expression in stored liver tissue samples, identifying a tell-tale genetic profile that indicates likelihood of recurrence. The analysis revealed a characteristic gene expression signature in 186 genes that reliably correlated with high tumor recurrence rates.
Researchers have identified RMI2, a novel protein essential for genome stability and DNA repair in Bloom's syndrome. The study sheds new light on the disease's underlying mechanisms.
The Cancer Genome Atlas reports findings on the MGMT gene, which makes brain cancer cells more responsive to treatment but also leads to mutations in other genes essential for DNA repair. These mutations contribute to cancer recurrence and resistance to treatment.
A team of researchers has conducted a comprehensive analysis of genomic variation in glioblastoma, the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor. The study's findings highlight the importance of integrating genomic and epigenomic measurements to better understand cancer genetics.
Researchers found a gene enhancer, HACNS1, that may have contributed to the evolution of the human opposable thumb and adaptations for walking on two legs. The discovery provides significant insights into genetic differences between humans and chimpanzees.
The study identifies frequently mutated genes, including ERBB2 and NF1, which were previously underestimated in their role in glioblastoma. The analysis also provides a wide view of how cell pathways are altered during the initiation and growth of glioblastoma, offering insights into strategies to diagnose and treat the disease.
A new study identifies three groups of cancers distinguished by early developmental signatures, shedding light on their gene expression patterns. This research provides a reference framework for interpreting smaller-scale functional studies and has implications for understanding human disease from a 'macrobiological' approach.
IGV integrates multiple types of genomic data, allowing for rapid analysis and visualization. The tool provides flexible zooming and panning across all resolution scales.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham has joined a national consortium working to improve treatment and survival for patients with glioma, a type of malignant brain tumor. The Ivy Genomics-Based Medicine Project will use advanced molecular profiling and testing to identify personalized treatments for patients.
The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has awarded fellowships to 14 promising young scientists conducting innovative cancer research projects. The three-year award provides independent funding to support their work in basic and translational cancer research.
Researchers at A*STAR have discovered a novel approach to kill colon cancer cells using a genetic regulator called DACT3. The team developed a pharmacological strategy to restore DACT3 expression, leading to effective inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and massive death of colon cancer cells.
A new study combines clinical characteristics with genomic profiles to predict breast cancer prognosis and guide treatment. By matching the right drugs with the right patients, researchers aim to provide more personalized treatment strategies.
Researchers investigated germline homozygosity in patients with solid tumors, finding high frequencies of this characteristic associated with increased cancer risk. The study suggests that germline homozygosity at specific loci may contribute to cancer predisposition and could be considered in future cancer risk assessments.
Genetic tests marketed directly to consumers may be premature and lack scientific validity. Dr. Kenneth Offit warns of the risks of self-ordering these tests without guidance from healthcare professionals. He advocates for cautious introduction of new 'whole genome' testing in clinical trials.
Genomic medicine shows modest positive effects on psychological outcomes and consumer interest in genetic testing to identify disease risks, but faces significant barriers to integration, including inadequate workforce knowledge and confidence.
Researchers found that viruses associated with microbialites are distinct from those in other environments and indicate the structures' connection to ancient ecosystems. The study provides insights into the evolution of life on Earth and the origins of these unique ecosystems.
Researchers found that human and dog cancers share a common genetic basis. The study discovered identical genetic abnormalities in both species for certain types of cancer, suggesting cancer may be inevitable due to shared genome evolution.
Researchers warn that powerful molecular tools in cancer research can lead to misleading conclusions due to the complexity of generated data. The team highlights the need for better understanding of the challenges in analyzing these genomic and proteomic technologies.
Researchers have developed two molecular analogues of curcumin that demonstrate enhanced tumor suppressive properties against colorectal cancer. These new compounds have shown improved bioavailability and potency compared to natural curcumin.
The National Human Genome Research Institute is funding two new centers to explore genomic mechanisms in vertebrate diversity. The centers will use the stickleback fish model to identify genetic signatures driving adaptive changes, with potential implications for human diseases.
Research reveals a critical link between protein 'chat' and cancer development, shedding light on three rare but deadly disorders. Shortened chromosome ends can lead to genetic instability, promoting cancer growth.
A UVa-led team has discovered that chromatin packing plays a crucial role in determining gene expression timing. By analyzing the replication of genes in different cell lines, researchers found that loosely packed chromatin allows for early gene expression, while densely packed chromatin leads to late expression.
Researchers used a recombinant adeno-associated virus to study genomic instability in sporadic cancers, identifying breakage-prone palindromes that can contribute to cancer and aging. The discovery provides an opportunity to study these sequences on a whole genome scale.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that protein p53 prompts skin to tan in response to ultraviolet light, deterring melanoma skin cancer. This process may also underlie people's desire for sunshine and is linked to stress response in the body.
Researchers have identified numerous variations in gene copy number that may contribute to cancer risk and other complex diseases. The study used a new technique to analyze gene copy number in mouse strains, revealing potential implications for human health and illness.
A study found specific genetic alterations in the stroma of head and neck skin cancers are linked to smoking and tumor aggressiveness. The research identified key genomic regions that may harbor genes related to clinical outcome and targeted therapy.
Researchers identified a mutated separase gene responsible for chromosomal instability and increased tumor load in zebrafish exposed to carcinogens. The study highlights the importance of genomic stability genes in tumor development.
Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine identify a protein group that forms the chromosome-spindle connection, allowing for accurate genome distribution. They also discover a complex that helps cells discriminate between correct and incorrect spindle connections, shutting down pulling processes to prevent genetic birth defects and cancer.
A panel of genomic tests analyzes a cancerous tumor's molecular traits to determine the most effective chemotherapy, potentially saving lives and reducing toxic side effects. The tests show 80% accuracy in predicting which drugs will kill the tumor.
A new gene expression-based chemical genomic approach has identified potent inhibitors of androgen receptor signaling, including celastrol and gedunin, which may overcome prostate cancer treatment resistance. Additionally, rapamycin has been found to potentially reverse glucocorticoid resistance in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
A team led by Berkeley Lab's Susan J. Fisher and Joe W. Gray aims to identify cancer-specific proteins and patterns in blood samples for early detection. By combining genome-wide studies with mass-spectrometry-based protein analysis, the team hopes to develop a more accurate test for all cancers.
The Starr Cancer Consortium aims to coordinate research efforts among five renowned institutions to understand and treat cancer. The collaboration will focus on developing new technologies, diagnostic approaches, and treatments for various forms of the disease.
The Lung Metagene Predictor scans thousands of genes to identify patterns of gene activity in individual tumors, predicting a patient's likelihood of recurrence and recommending chemotherapy accordingly. The test has the potential to save thousands of lives each year by targeting high-risk patients with aggressive treatment.
Researchers identified a number of activity patterns in genes that make tumors biologically different, providing valuable information for treatment decisions. Four out of five predictors showed significant agreement in their outcome predictions, indicating potential for personalized treatments.
A study found that HPV16 and 18 variants persist longer in people whose ancestors are from the same geographical area as the virus. The research suggests that genetic variants specific to racial groups may play a role in persistence. Future studies should examine possible mechanisms behind variant-specific immune evasion.
Researchers found a discrepancy in reported maternal vs paternal relatives with breast cancer, suggesting under-reporting on the paternal side. This could lead to inaccurate family history and missed screenings for breast cancer.
Aberrant V(D)J recombination is found to be more common than thought, generating chromosomal abnormalities in human lymphomas. The study estimates that this process results in approximately 10,000 transpositions per day for the average adult.
Researchers have identified a new global mechanism for gene repression, using histones and the SUMO protein to silence genes. The study found that sumoylation occurs near telomeres and is involved in maintaining genomic stability.
A study by Mayo Clinic researchers identified 8 genes with significant under-expression and 3 with over-expression, strongly implicating them in prostate cancer development and progression. The findings suggest that these genes may serve as biomarkers for diagnosing and predicting prostate cancer, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
Mutations in the EphB2 gene are found in 15% of African-American men with a strong family history, compared to 5% without a history. This gene mutation is associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer in African-American men, particularly those with a family history.
The study highlights the complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors in determining human aging. While there is no single gene responsible for aging, genetics account for approximately 25% of how a person ages, with stress, environment, nutrition, lifestyle, and immunity also playing significant roles.
A new technique using a customized gene chip can rapidly detect genetic changes in neuroblastoma tumors, helping doctors predict treatment outcomes and guide therapy. The approach may also be adapted for other types of cancer with DNA changes important to their prognosis.
Researchers found accelerated chromosomal evolution since dinosaurs disappeared, with rates of change increasing 2-5 fold. The study identified segmental duplication around breakpoint sites, potentially linked to human diseases like cancer.
A novel tool has been developed to accurately classify human cancers based on microRNA expression patterns, offering a promising diagnostic approach. The study reveals striking correlations between miRNA profiles and specific tumor types, providing new insights into the genomic approaches to cancer diagnosis.
Researchers analyzed gene-expression libraries from daf-2 mutants to identify genes critical to aging. They found that metabolic processes were repressed in early and mid-life adults, contributing to longevity. Stress-response factors were also differentially expressed, suggesting protection against cellular stress may increase lifespan.
A recent study found that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene mutations are more common in never smokers, females, and patients of East Asian ancestry. The mutations were also associated with increased sensitivity to gefitinib and erlotinib, tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
A study led by The Wistar Institute discovered that the enzyme Ubp10 plays a crucial role in protecting the genome's telomeric regions from destabilization. This protection may help prevent genetic recombinations that can trigger cancer or accelerate aging.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) has awarded four faculty members from Minority-Serving Institutions for their meritorious work in basic, clinical, or translational cancer research. The awardees attended special conferences focused on oncogenesis and oncogenomics.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) has awarded 6 minority researchers to attend cancer conferences in 2005. The awards allowed early career scientists from underrepresented groups to attend the conferences, providing them with opportunities to share new discoveries and advance their careers.
Researchers analyzed chromatin structure in human chromosomes and found similar patterns in equivalent regions of the mouse genome, revealing new insights into regulatory functions and potential connections to cancer. This study advances our understanding of how genes are turned on and off, with implications for improving human health.
Researchers discovered over 2,200 new human-specific Alu DNA repeats not found in chimpanzees, suggesting an explosive expansion of genetic code. This finding contradicts the idea of natural selection and highlights a chemical process driving human evolution.
A mouse model of Werner's syndrome reveals a link between aging and cancer development, suggesting that telomere shortening accelerates disease progression. The study suggests that genomic instability is a common denominator in both aging and cancer, with telomere length playing a key role.
A large family-based study identified specific genes associated with increased prostate cancer susceptibility, highlighting the potential for early detection and targeted surveillance. The study's findings also revealed that prostate cancers in genetically predisposed individuals tend to be more aggressive and fatal.