Articles tagged with Cancer Genomics
A team of researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder has solved the structure of the Facilitates Chromatin Transcription (FACT) protein, a key player in DNA packaging and gene expression. The discovery sheds light on how this protein maintains the integrity of chromatin during transcription, replication, and DNA damage repair.
Scientists at University of Utah Health have discovered new genetic elements that could help control obesity and metabolic disorders. Hibernating mammals have evolved short non-coding DNA snippets near genes linked to obesity in humans.
Researchers have discovered 37 essential FOXA1 binding sites in T47D cells, which act as enhancers to regulate gene expression. The team also developed a machine learning model to predict important transcription factor binding sites, offering promising insights into cancer biology and potential clinical applications.
Researchers have developed a new CRISPR-Cas9 protein, SaCas9-HF, to increase the precision of genome editing. The new variant shows high accuracy in targeting human cells without compromising on-target efficiency.
Researchers have developed a high-resolution visual map of the RSC complex, a crucial regulator of chromosome structure and gene expression. This study provides new insights into how RSC-like complexes are involved in cancer development and has implications for understanding chromosomal genes in healthy and cancer cells.
Researchers identified four distinct immune-based subtypes of kidney cancer, which could help predict patient survival and response to treatment. The study also found that certain tumor microenvironment signatures were associated with better or worse overall survival.
A team of researchers, including CeMM PI Joanna Loizou, will study DNA-damage response systems using cutting-edge technologies. The six-year project aims to create integrated genetic and physical maps of DNA repair pathways in human cell types.
A novel cancer-driving mutation discovered in the human genome's non-coding regions can drive multiple types of cancer, including brain, liver and blood cancers. The mutation could be used to develop novel treatments for patients with these difficult-to-treat diseases.
Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital have discovered the near-atomic-resolution structure of DNA polymerase delta, a crucial enzyme in genome replication. The team also mapped mutations associated with cancers and other diseases.
Researchers found that high blood sugar levels in diabetes can cause DNA damage and reduce its repair, increasing the risk of certain cancers. The study suggests that controlling blood sugar levels could be an effective way to reduce cancer risk in diabetics.
Researchers analyzed genomic data from 317 MCC patients and found two distinct populations with different genetic profiles and treatment responses. Immunotherapies showed high effectiveness in both groups, with better response rates when given early treatment.
Researchers explore new tools and strategies to interpret multiomics data, revealing insights into bacterial strains and cancer phenotypes.
The freely available data set includes unique comparisons of almost 1,000 cancer cell lines' responses to 453 licensed and experimental drugs. The dataset offers a rich resource for cancer scientists to discover more about how cancer cells work and generate new therapeutics and drug combinations.
University of Birmingham researchers found that the BRCA1 gene changes shape to protect vulnerable DNA until copying machinery can be restarted. This discovery could help understand how cancers develop and potentially identify new ways to suppress tumors.
A new study from the University of California, Irvine, reveals that many recurrent cancer mutations are not drivers of cancer progression but rather passenger hotspots. The research identified APOBEC3A as a key player in creating these hotspot mutations, which can be targeted for novel cancer therapies.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that DNA single strands can be highly sensitive to mutation by gene-editing enzymes. Many mutations occur in genes unrelated to cancer development, highlighting the need to distinguish between 'driver' and 'passenger' mutations.
Researchers at Montana State University have developed software to analyze pangenomes, which can help identify genetic variations associated with drought tolerance in plants. The tool also shows promise for diagnosing diseases with a genetic component, such as certain types of cancer.
The study found that ARID1A controls the genome-wide positioning of condensin II, a complex regulating gene expression through organizing chromosome structure. This loss affects global gene expression, with broad consequences for cancer types, especially ovarian cancer.
Researchers analyzed over 3,500 tumor samples to identify genomic changes that inform targeted treatment strategies for men with advanced prostate cancers. The study found that more than half of patients have characteristics that suggest they are suitable for targeted therapies.
A computational tool assigns a bladder cancer subtype to an individual patient using genomic data, enabling personalized treatment selection. The study found that patients with the aggressive 'neuronal' subtype responded well to atezolizumab treatment, achieving high survival probabilities.
Researchers found that MSI intensity and mutational load significantly impact MMR-deficient tumors' response to PD-1 therapy. Higher mutational loads result in better responses to treatment.
Researchers have identified three medicinal plants from Mauritius with effective inhibitors of esophageal cancer cells, stopping their growth and contributing to their death. The extracts contain natural chemical compounds that restrain the G2/M stages transition in malignant tumor cells by activating AMPK signaling pathway.
Researchers at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University have decoded the genome of the popular Japanese brown seaweed ito-mozuku. The study reveals genes that drive up fucoidan production, a substance with potential health benefits, and provides data that could aid in farming.
Genevera Allen, a Rice University statistician, emphasizes the need for machine learning systems to question their predictions and assess uncertainty. She argues that current ML techniques often rely on uncorroborated data-driven discoveries, leading to reproducibility issues in fields like precision medicine.
Researchers at University of California San Diego found evidence that p53 stimulates tumor growth by enhancing cancer metabolism, challenging the widely accepted idea that it suppresses cancer. The study suggests that drug therapies designed to enhance p53's function may inadvertently cause opposite effects.
Researchers discovered that EZH2 mutations disrupt chromatin organization, leading to increased tumor growth and altered gene expression. Inhibiting mutated EZH2 restores normal gene regulation, highlighting its therapeutic potential for cancer treatment.
A new study by Tel Aviv University researchers has identified a protein called ubiquilin-4 as a biomarker for genome instability. Elevated levels of this protein in tumor cells accelerate cancer progression and make them resistant to common treatments.
A unique nano-scaled DNA signature common to all cancers has been discovered, allowing for rapid detection from various tissues. This breakthrough technology uses gold nanoparticles to detect cancer DNA fragments and could lead to point-of-care diagnostics.
A new study has shown that genomic profiling can provide meaningful information for more than half of people with rare cancers, influencing diagnosis and treatment. The trial found that 20% of participants received a new treatment plan, and 6% were given a new diagnosis.
Researchers have discovered a possible path forward in preventing cancers linked to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Kaposi's sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV), which cause infectious mononucleosis. By blocking the viruses' defense proteins, it may be possible to treat mono and prevent cancer development.
Researchers developed a novel computational tool called ADmiRE to annotate human microRNA variants and determine their potential contribution to diseases. The tool successfully identified microRNA mutations in miR-142 and miR-21 linked to hematologic cancers and esophageal cancer, respectively.
Researchers discovered that cancer-causing papillomaviruses diverged from their common ancestors half a million years ago, coinciding with the split between Neanderthals and modern humans. The viruses adapted to specific host ecosystems and then coevolved with primates for at least 40 million years.
Scientists discovered millions of tumor-associated end coordinates in circulating DNA from hepatocellular carcinoma patients. This detection method could enhance the cost-effectiveness of liquid cancer biopsies by identifying cancer biomarkers more readily.
A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals a 'kill code' embedded in every cell that can trigger the self-destruction of cancerous cells. The toxic small RNA molecules can also be triggered by chemotherapy, offering a potential bulletproof treatment against cancer.
Researchers have mapped the chromatin accessibility landscape of 23 primary human cancer types using ATAC-seq, identifying over 500,000 active DNA regulatory elements. This comprehensive dataset may help partition cancer patients for more effective therapies.
A new DNA tool created by Michigan State University can accurately predict people's height and potentially assess their risk for serious illnesses like heart disease and cancer. The tool uses machine learning and analyzes the complete genetic makeup of nearly 500,000 adults in the UK to build predictors for complex traits.
A study of 50,000 people found that over 80% of those with identifiable genetic risk for breast, ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic cancer are unaware they carry the gene. The findings highlight the need for effective DNA-based screening to identify high-risk individuals before a cancer diagnosis.
A new study reveals how KSHV protein LANA drives chromosomal instability, promoting cell proliferation and aneuploidy. The findings identify NNLS as a promising target for antiviral therapies.
Researchers discovered 137 interactions between HPV proteins and human proteins, revealing common pathways with smoking-related cancers. The study highlights the importance of targeting specific proteins to develop effective treatments for HPV-positive head and neck cancers.
Researchers develop radiomic signature to predict efficacy of immunotherapy in patients with solid tumors. The algorithm analyzes CT scan images to extract biological information, providing a predictive score for treatment effectiveness.
Researchers identify TLK1 and TLK2 as critical for accurate DNA replication, preventing extensive damage and cell death. The study found that these enzymes are rarely mutated in cancers but their high expression correlates with poor patient outcomes.
At least 1% of the US population has an identifiable genetic risk for cancer or heart disease that can be detected through genomic screening. Implementing routine genomic screening could lead to significant benefits, but more work is needed to develop functioning models.
Researchers developed a new technology to identify microRNAs from non-culturable pathogens, discovering five highly probable papillomavirus-encoded microRNAs. These microRNAs regulate viral gene expression and control the papillomavirus life cycle.
Mary-Claire King has been recognized by ASHG for her tireless advocacy on using genetics to help people and families worldwide. Her lab has helped reunite 130 families through mtDNA sequencing, and her work with the UN Forensic Anthropology Team has identified victims of extra-judicial execution.
Researchers developed a method to detect genes under selection and found essential cancer genes and immune-exposed protein regions under significant negative selection. This challenges the exclusive role of positive selection in cancer evolution.
The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) recognizes Dr. Andrew Adey's contributions to cancer development and progression research. His novel single-cell technologies are being used worldwide to understand epigenetics and disease models.
Scientists discovered that mitochondria and nuclear genomes co-evolved to independently cross-regulate each other. This understanding could lead to greater insights into aging and disease, as well as new treatments based on mitochondrial DNA.
Research reveals that ancient American dogs disappeared rapidly following the arrival of Europeans, leaving little genetic signature in modern American dogs. A close relative of these dogs lives on as a transmissible cancer, with its genome mirroring that of the original dog.
Researchers found a cancerous tumor that has been present in modern American dogs for thousands of years, tracing it back to ancient dog populations that arrived with early humans. The study suggests catastrophic events may have led to the sudden disappearance of these early canines.
A new computational strategy using Bayesian analysis and CRISPR/Cas9 screening technology has identified 29 genetic changes contributing to rhabdomyosarcoma, a common childhood cancer. The study suggests potential treatments for the disease and provides a general approach for identifying oncogenic drivers in other cancers.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that a protein called AMPK drives aggressive and deadly brain cancers like glioblastoma. Blocking AMPK may produce therapeutic benefit for patients with few treatment options. Additional research is needed to translate the findings into patient care.
Scientists at the University of Sheffield have discovered an enzyme called UCHL3 that regulates DNA repair and may hold promise in improving treatment for chemotherapy-resistant cancers. The findings also suggest a link between UCHL3 activity and brain ageing, which could impact memory, cognitive function, and learning.
A collaborative effort has discovered molecular features of testicular germ cell cancers, identifying potential mutations and other molecular changes. The study found signs of duplicated DNA and defects in DNA methylation, which could inform future efforts to improve treatment decisions and help monitor patients for cancer recurrence.
Researchers identified four survival strategies in childhood cancer cells: tolerance, coexistence, competition, and chaos. These strategies are associated with varying outcomes, with increased risk of relapse seen in competition and chaos variants.
Scientists discovered that altered cohesin SA2 variant influences gene expression and favours loss of differentiation in tumour cells. The two cohesin variants have distinct functions, with SA1 involved in topological domains and SA2 regulating gene expression through local chromatin loops.
A research group has developed a new technique to study the behavior of p53 conformers, which are prone to forming amyloid aggregates that contribute to cancer development. The approach allows researchers to observe these conformers before they aggregate, providing potential tools for understanding and blocking their formation.
Scientists create cell models with specific DNA repair gene defects, allowing them to identify genomic scars associated with these defects. These scars can serve as biomarkers for molecular characterization of tumors and improve personalized cancer treatment.
Researchers used human and C. elegans data to understand the mutational causes of cancer, finding a resemblance between nematode worms and human cancer genomes. They discovered DNA mismatch repair deficiencies in both species, providing insights into the causes of cancer and potential treatment avenues.
Researchers analyzed genomic and molecular data from 33 cancer types and identified 28 molecular clusters. The study provides new insights into cancer classification and potential treatment options.
Researchers discovered that some cancers are genetically similar, despite originating from different organs, and grouped them into new subtypes. The study's findings support an additional cancer classification system, which could lead to improved treatment options for patients.