Articles tagged with Cancer Genomics
A novel population of long-lived T cells, called 'lymph node resident memory T cells,' provides protection against melanoma by persisting in lymph nodes. These cells were found to counteract melanoma spreading in mice and predicted better outcomes for human melanoma patients with lymph node metastases.
Researchers identify molecular targets for improved prostate cancer therapy by comparing genomic changes in cancer cells eradicated and resistant to treatment. The study also finds L1 retrotransposition as a dynamic source of cancer heterogeneity.
Researchers found that the gene TCF-1 regulates specific Treg cells, leading to more severe and inflammatory colon cancers. Without TCF-1, these cells become activated and gain a gut-homing feature, resulting in harsher cancer outcomes.
The Vilcek Foundation has awarded four prizes worth $250,000 to foreign-born scientists in the United States. The prizes recognize outstanding career contributions to biomedical science and innovative research. This year's recipients include Vishva M. Dixit, Markita del Carpio Landry, Hani Goodarzi, and Harris Wang.
A research team has developed a cell printing technology to produce 3D cancer spheroids with varying diameters and blood vessels. This enables the reproduction of cancer metastasis properties, paving the way for personalized cancer treatments.
Researchers used a comprehensive knowledgebase to identify 22 actionable genes and 43 candidate drugs for biliary tract cancer, which may lead to the development of targeted therapies. The study's findings contribute to personalized treatment options for this rare tumor worldwide.
Gastrointestinal stroma tumors (GIST) are rare cancers that can be problematic to detect and treat. Researchers have identified the mutational drivers for GIST in the stomach and found a potential drug therapy, temozolomide, which showed promising results in treating patients with specific mutations.
Researchers identified DSS1 as a critical protein in breast cancer progression and found that depleting it makes cancer cells more responsive to lower doses of anti-cancer drugs. This technique may reduce drug-induced side effects in breast cancer patients, providing a safer treatment option.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have identified two separate genetic alterations that enable triple-negative breast cancer cells to develop resistance to a highly effective drug. The findings could help improve therapy and prolong survival for patients with this aggressive form of breast cancer.
A study by UCI researchers reveals two ways APOBEC3A is controlled in response to stress, offering potential therapeutic strategies against cancers and viral infections. The findings could lead to new treatments that prevent DNA mutations caused by the enzyme, reducing disease progression and resistance.
A comprehensive molecular map of lung squamous cell carcinoma has identified potential new drug targets, including the gene NSD3, and highlighted immune regulation pathways that could help cancer evade immunotherapies. The study's findings have also revealed metabolic dysregulation and crosstalk between different cellular processes.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have made a significant advance in fibroids research by identifying a new mechanism of tumorigenesis. Multiple tumors carried mutations in genes involved in histone trafficking, which affected gene expression levels and led to hereditary predisposition to the disease.
Researchers have developed a new integrative genetic test, LYNX, that analyzes standard and novel molecular markers in common lymphoid neoplasms. The test provides accurate detection of mutations, identification of large genome-wide chromosomal aberrations, and assessment of immunoglobulin and T-cell receptor gene rearrangements.
Researchers developed a machine learning tool, BoostDM, that evaluates the potential contribution of mutations in genes to cancer development. The tool helps understand how tumors are caused at the molecular level and can facilitate medical decisions regarding therapy.
A genetic variant in the TCERG1L gene has been identified as a risk factor for cisplatin-induced hearing loss in children with cancer, increasing the risk by three times. The finding could lead to predictive tests to inform treatment decisions and advance pediatric cancer care.
Scientists from UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center identified TAF12 as critical to the formation of preinitiation complexes, which are necessary for gene transcription. Eliminating TAF12 destroys preinitiation complexes and drastically reduces genome-wide transcription.
Researchers developed AstroPath, a platform combining astronomy and pathology to analyze tumor microenvironments. It predicts response to anti-PD-1 therapy in melanoma patients, providing new insights into cancer treatment options.
Scientists discovered that the genome is organized like a library system, with liquid parts accessible and solid-like islands storing unused information. This organization relies on physics of different states of matter, providing new insights into disease mechanisms and potential treatments.
A study published in Oncotarget found a distinct global DNA hypermethylation pattern and gene expression signature in liver cancer among patients with Indigenous American ancestry. This molecular subtype of HCC preferentially affects people with Indigenous ancestry, highlighting the importance of considering anthropological background ...
Researchers found that Tasmanian devils' genome has undergone widespread evolution in response to transmissible cancer, but distinct sets of genes are involved at different timescales. The study suggests that conservation efforts should focus on maintaining genetic diversity across a wide set of functionally important genes.
University of Virginia researchers have developed a new computational method to map the folding patterns of chromosomes in three dimensions. This will help scientists understand the genetic cause of cancer and advance other areas of medical research.
The scientific community is urged to adopt more inclusive practices in preclinical and basic science research to promote personalized medicine. Researchers highlight the lack of diversity in commonly used human cell lines, which are predominantly of European descent, and emphasize the need for representative cell lines to better unders...
A new machine learning technique, MethSig, analyzes DNA methylation changes in tumor cells to infer which ones are driving tumor growth. The algorithm identifies a small number of cancer-driving events, consistent across patients and tumor types.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that a protein called Asterix/Gtf1 suppresses small specific regions of mobile genetic elements by binding to tRNA molecules. This discovery could lead to understanding how cells protect themselves against these elements and potentially tame an overly restless genome.
Researchers found that tumour samples from over 2,600 patients with different types of cancer contain a high prevalence of genetic diversity within individual tumours. This variation is a challenge for doctors as treatment may not be effective against another subclone, and certain subclones can initiate tumour spread or drug resistance.
Researchers at IRB Barcelona have discovered the HMCES enzyme to be a Achilles heel of some lung tumours with high mutations caused by the APOBEC system. Blocking HMCES is damaging to cancer cells but less so for healthy cells, making it a promising target for future treatments.
An international study reveals that the MutS protein, known as the guardian of our genome, coordinates the essential DNA repair process from beginning to end. The researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to visualize the protein and describe its mechanism of action.
A new study by NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing found that breast cancer survivors with high genomic test scores report higher overall fear and greater perceived consequences compared to those with low scores. Anxiety and emotional response to cancer are the best predictors of fear, explaining 58% of variance in fear of recurrence.
Researchers have developed an AI system to analyze DNA-sequenced mesotheliomas, revealing similar evolutionary paths that predict aggressiveness and possible therapy. This breakthrough could lead to improved patient outcomes for those with this aggressive form of cancer.
A new study led by University of Maryland researchers found that DNA from tissue samples can be used to accurately predict the age of bats in the wild. The study showed age-related changes to DNA are different between long-lived and short-lived bat species, especially near genes associated with cancer and immunity.
The study demonstrates MEK inhibitors as a promising targeted therapy for basal subtype bladder cancer, highlighting the importance of 3D cell culture drug screening. Established genomic and transcriptomic data are correlated with drug response to identify novel groups of tumors vulnerable to specific drugs.
A new review highlights biological differences in prostate cancer development across ethnicities, identifying potential improvements for African American men. The study aims to reduce incidence and mortality rates by leveraging these differences.
Researchers have found that short strands of cell-free DNA in urine can indicate a difference between healthy individuals and those with cancer. The DNA fragments are protected from degradation and can provide meaningful information about disease complexity like cancer.
A new genomic test helps oncologists determine which patients with recurrent prostate cancer may benefit from hormone therapy, guiding precision medicine efforts. The Decipher test, measuring tumor gene activity, predicts risk of metastasis and death, even after adjusting for other factors.
Lung cancer is a leading cause of death in Singapore and the world, with Asian populations exhibiting distinct genetic alterations. The World Conference on Lung Cancer Singapore presented new data on EGFR mutation and TKI-drug resistance, highlighting the need for targeted treatment approaches.
A new study reveals that errors in chromosome packing may cause B-cell blood cancers. Researchers identified a critical protein called DIS3 that maintains genomic architecture and prevents cancer. The findings could lead to new biomarkers and therapies targeting genome instability.
A recent study published in JAMA Oncology found significant racial disparities in breast cancer prognosis testing among Black women, who have higher recurrence and mortality rates than non-Hispanic white women. The study suggests that genomic tumor tests may require re-calibration to reflect racial differences.
A study by Dmitry Gordenin and colleagues found that genomic DNA changes in skin cells accumulate over time, with the amount of damage caused by UV light unrelated to age. Black individuals exhibited less UV damage compared to white donors, possibly due to higher melanin levels.
The study uses a decontamination algorithm to identify the bacteria living in tumors, finding that normal and cancerous organ tissues have distinct microbiota compositions. The researchers also discovered that bacterial information could help diagnose cancer and predict patient outcomes.
Researchers have classified angiosarcomas into three subtypes based on genomic and immune profiles, enabling personalized treatment approaches. The study suggests that checkpoint immunotherapy can be effective for clusters one and three, while tumour-promoting genes in cluster two may be explored as potential targets.
Researchers have identified seven DNA fingerprints that define cancer risk, including a protective germline pattern and six that present a higher risk. The discovery refines the long-held view that lifestyle factors contribute to cancer risk and sheds light on the role of genetics in cancer development.
Researchers identified genomic heterogeneity and immune content scores that predict lethal outcomes in grade 4/5 prostate cancer patients. The study found that approximately 25% of these patients were more likely to benefit from targeted treatment strategies.
Researchers developed a polygenic risk score to assess breast cancer risk in carriers of high-risk mutations. The score provides a more accurate estimate, especially for close relatives, and has the potential to save lives by targeting cancer screening.
A recent study reveals unique mutation patterns in the genes PIK3CA, GNAS, SMAD3, and TSC2 among young patients with appendiceal cancer. These findings suggest potential for targeted therapies, such as alpelisib, which have already been approved for advanced breast cancer.
A new framework helps determine the exact timing of DNA mutations in cancer genomes, enabling more targeted and personalized treatments. By analyzing 22 different algorithms on nearly 300 prostate cancer samples, UCLA researchers identified biases and variability to improve treatment outcomes.
A new whole-body tissue map of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) modifications was published, expanding understanding of a global biomarker for disease diagnosis. The map confirms 5hmC as a prevalent gene activation mark with superb tissue specificity, providing a resource for future diagnostic tests.
A new study has shed light on the role of p53 target gene Zmat3 in lymphoma and lung cancer development. Researchers found that disabling Zmat3 had little impact on tumor development, suggesting that other proteins may be involved in preventing cancer formation.
A team of researchers analyzed 648 DFT1 tumors collected between 2003 and 2018, revealing that early on in the spread of the tumor, five clades emerged, with two dying out while three continued to spread. The study highlights the importance of geography in influencing the movements of devils and their disease.
The UC Santa Cruz Genomics Institute is teaming up with No Stomach For Cancer to release a web portal that combines vast amounts of gene variant data with corresponding clinical data. This collaboration aims to advance science and patient survival by identifying individuals at risk of hereditary stomach cancers.
A study of patients with cancer who had exceptional responses to therapy has identified molecular changes in their tumors that contribute to these unexpected and long-lasting responses. The researchers used genomic characterizations to uncover genetic alterations that may help understand the mechanisms behind these rare responses.
Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute discovered that chromatin remodeling machines have a motor-like component that drives the machine along DNA, disrupting nucleosome beads. The team found cancer-causing mutations in an area of the hub regulating motor activity, leading to improper gene expression and cancer.
A new UK study sheds light on the effects of benzopyrene exposure on human cells, revealing new insights into DNA repair mechanisms and their connection to cancer development. The research suggests that understanding these mechanisms could help predict individuals more susceptible to cancer-causing agents.
A team led by Dr. Katherine L. Nathanson has been awarded $5.4 million to continue researching the genetic risk factors of testicular cancer, which affects men aged 15-45 in the US and Europe. The study aims to identify novel susceptibility genes and provide data for surveillance of high-risk individuals.
Researchers identify lysine acetylation as key regulator of Pif1 helicase, a protein involved in genome stability and cancer. The study's findings could lead to more targeted cancer therapies by fine-tuning drugs to target specific enzymes.
Researchers have identified silent ancient DNA elements in our genome that, when reactivated, stimulate the immune system to fight cancer. The discovery of ADAR1, an enzyme used by cancer cells to evade detection, opens up a new field of cancer therapies.
Researchers developed a novel epigenomic approach to detect pancreatic cancer in its early stages using blood draws, identifying distinctive patterns in thousands of genes that serve as biomarkers. This technology has the potential to lead to more timely treatment and improved patient survival.
Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered the intricate details of the Origin Recognition Complex (ORC), a crucial protein in human genome replication. ORC changes shape dramatically as it assembles around DNA, with parts twisting and pinching to interact with the molecule.
A team of researchers identified specific therapeutic targets for adenosquamous cancer of the pancreas (ASCP), a deadly form of pancreatic cancer. The study used multiple analysis methods to identify mutations and genomic variants, including FGFR signaling and RORC, which could be targeted by existing drugs.
Scientists at Cornell University's veterinary college have identified the genetic drivers of ovarian cancer, a deadly disease that kills more women than any other cancer. The study reveals that ovarian surface stem cells are more susceptible to mutations, while certain genes can inhibit cancer initiation.
Researchers found widespread imbalances in chromosomal gains and losses between cells taken from different parts of tumors, indicating ongoing evolution and selection for preferred traits. This high-level variation was observed across all tumor types analyzed, with some regions showing mirrored subclonal allele imbalance.