Disease Progression

ALS is driven by a domino‑like chain reaction that begins in nerve cells

New marker aids diagnosis for aggressive prostate cancer

Influenza frequently missed in winter deaths, new study finds

A new study found that influenza was detected in 11% of winter deaths, but only 17% had a confirmed diagnosis before death. The study highlights the gap between detection and official mortality records, suggesting influenza may play a larger role in winter mortality than routine surveillance captures.

FAU discovery of tiny cell ‘tunnels’ finds new path to slow Huntington’s disease

Huntington's disease is caused by a toxic protein that builds in brain cells and spreads to other cells through tunneling nanotubes. Disrupting this pathway reduces the spread of the disease-causing protein, suggesting a new target for therapy.

New alliance clinical trial aims to improve outcomes in brain tumors

A new clinical trial will investigate whether adding the oral medication vorasidenib to standard chemotherapy improves progression-free survival for people with newly-diagnosed, grade 3 IDH-mutant astrocytoma. The study aims to recruit 400 individuals with this type of brain cancer and evaluate the safety and side-effect profile of the...

The cost of survival: Women more likely to survive cancer but suffer more severe side effects

A recent study found that women have a 21% lower risk of death compared to men, but a 12% higher risk of severe side effects from cancer treatment. The research, conducted in partnership with international collaborators, analyzed data from over 20,000 cancer patients and identified sex-based differences in survival and treatment toxicity.

AI cancer tools risk “shortcut learning” rather than detecting true biology

New research warns that popular AI systems for predicting cancer biology may rely on visual shortcuts, raising concerns about their reliability for real-world patient care. Despite achieving high accuracy, these models often fail when conditions change or confounding factors are controlled.

Critical crosstalk between blood vessels and immune system, showing shared pathways in major diseases

The review outlines how vascular-immune crosstalk affects various diseases, revealing novel therapeutic opportunities. It highlights the shared embryonic origin of blood vessel cells and immune cells, as well as coordinated immune cell trafficking mechanisms.

‘Stiff’ cells provide new explanation for differing symptoms in sickle cell patients

Researchers discovered that highly 'stiff' red blood cells play a crucial role in sickle cell disease, causing blockages and pain. The study's findings could lead to more effective, personalized therapies and new testing for early warning of symptoms.

Novel liquid biopsy technology lowers barriers for more efficient cancer diagnostics

A new liquid biopsy technology, Bridge Capture, has been developed to overcome the challenges of sensitive and cost-efficient cancer diagnostics. It detects rare variant allele frequencies with superior sensitivity compared to existing methods.

AI model identifies how every country can improve its cancer outcomes

A machine learning model has identified the most important drivers of cancer survival in nearly all countries, highlighting factors such as national wealth, access to radiotherapy and universal health coverage. The model provides data-driven roadmaps for policymakers to prioritize resources and close survival gaps.

Chromatin accessibility maps reveal how stem cells drive myelodysplastic progression

Chromatin accessibility maps reveal that MDS stem cells gradually lose their normal identity and acquire characteristics typical of myeloid progenitors. A 'progenitor score' developed by the team tracks cell movement toward a progenitor-like state, correlating with disease severity and prognosis.

Researchers define unique, soft tissue benign tumor with bony shell that may previously have been mistaken as malignant

A new, slow-growing tumor has been identified with a distinctive bone-covered shell, previously misdiagnosed as cancerous. Researchers describe the ossifying spindled and epithelioid tumor (OSET) for the first time, highlighting its unique characteristics and potential consequences of incorrect diagnosis.

Breast cancer case study could inform clinical trials

Researchers studied MALAT1 levels in a woman with triple-negative breast cancer, finding high levels at diagnosis and decreased while receiving treatment. Notably, levels increased at a distant metastatic site, suggesting MALAT1's role in TNBC's spread. The study informs future treatments and potential clinical trials.

Mathematicians model the menace of mosquitoes

Researchers have created a model that can handle complex mosquito behavior and its impact on human diseases. The study reveals surprising findings, such as it may be better to let a mosquito bite you in terms of overall transmission.

Artificially sweetened and sugary drinks are both associated with an increased risk of liver disease, study finds

A new study reveals that both sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and low- or non-sugar-sweetened beverages (LNSSBs) are significantly associated with a higher risk of developing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Replacing either beverage with water significantly reduces MASLD risk.

Key mechanism for Alzheimer’s disease discovered

Researchers at Heidelberg University have discovered a key mechanism for Alzheimer's disease, identifying a neurotoxic protein-protein complex responsible for nerve cell death and cognitive decline. A novel pharmacological inhibitor, FP802, has shown promising results in slowing disease progression.

Younger men have higher risk for mortality and cardiovascular disease for type 2 diabetes than type 1 diabetes; whereas for women type 1 diabetes outcomes are worse at all ages

A new study found that younger men with type 2 diabetes are more likely to experience worse cardiovascular disease and mortality outcomes compared to those with type 1 diabetes. In contrast, women with type 1 diabetes face poorer health outcomes across all ages, particularly due to longer exposure to high blood sugar levels and less ag...

AI can find cancer pathologists miss

Researchers at Uppsala University have developed an AI system that can detect subtle tissue changes indicative of prostate cancer, missing it from human pathologists. The study found the AI detected cancers in over 80% of cases where pathologists missed them.

What traits matter when predicting disease emergence in new populations?

Researchers at Penn State have identified certain characteristics that can help predict whether a virus will persist in a new population. Infection prevalence and viral shedding were found to be significant predictors of long-term viral persistence. The study used a worm model system to examine disease transmission and emergence at a p...

Want to improve early detection of diabetes? Look in the same households as those with abnormal blood sugar

A study found that almost 50,000 adults with prediabetes and 30,000 with type 2 diabetes lived in the same households as index cases. The researchers analyzed electronic health records to identify household members with diabetes risk factors, including obesity and abnormal blood fats.

Structure meets function: Glycocalyx analyzed at the molecular level for the first time

Researchers at Max Planck Institute successfully image individual sugars within the glycocalyx at molecular resolution, linking their spatial arrangement to biological function. This breakthrough enables functional conclusions about cellular processes and opens new avenues for clinical applications.

Smithsonian research reveals that probiotics slow spread of deadly disease decimating Caribbean reefs

Researchers have discovered that a bacterial probiotic helps slow the spread of stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) in already infected wild corals in Florida. Applying the probiotic treatment across entire coral colonies helped prevent tissue loss, providing a more lasting protection than traditional antibiotics.

A machine learning tool for diagnosing, monitoring colorectal cancer

Researchers have developed a machine learning tool that identifies metabolism-related molecular profile differences between colorectal cancer patients and healthy individuals. The tool, called PANDA, shows promise as a noninvasive method of diagnosing colorectal cancer and monitoring disease progression.

Oxygen deprivation promotes colon cancer growth

Researchers at The University of Osaka found that localized oxygen deficiency in colon tumors can promote tumor growth by transforming normal fibroblasts into inflammatory fibroblasts. These altered cells release factors that help tumors grow, offering a potential new target for cancer therapy.

Blood test for many cancers could potentially thwart progression to late stage in up to half of cases

A single blood test could identify early-stage cancer in up to half of cases, potentially preventing late-stage disease and improving patient outcomes. Regular MCED testing showed more favourable diagnostic rates than usual care alone, with annual screenings having a higher impact on stage shift.

α-synuclein PET imaging breakthrough illuminates path to earlier diagnosis of Parkinson's disease

Researchers developed promising α-synuclein PET tracers that can visualize protein aggregates in living patients, enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment monitoring. Tracers like [18F]C05-05 and [18F]ACI-12589 showed significant results in distinguishing synucleinopathies from healthy controls.

New biomarker for predicting progression of multiple sclerosis identified

Researchers at University of Turku discovered a new biomarker that correlates the thickness of inflammatory cell rim surrounding brain lesions with disease severity and speed. The wider the rim, the more aggressively the disease advances, allowing for earlier treatment identification and evaluating drug candidates.

International Progressive MS Alliance announces experimental medicine trial awardees for three development projects

The International Progressive MS Alliance has awarded €100,000 to three development project teams to plan clinical trials. The projects focus on developing new treatments for progressive MS, including exercise-induced fatigability, neural stem cell therapy, and salbutamol treatment.

AACR: HER2 targeted therapy shows promise in previously treated lung cancers

A Phase Ia/Ib trial found that zongertinib demonstrated clinical benefits for patients with advanced HER2-mutant non-small cell lung cancer, particularly those with specific HER2 mutations. The treatment showed a 71% objective response rate and manageable side effects.

The potential oncogenic role of serum-derived hsa_circ_101555 as a non-invasive diagnostic/prognostic marker in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

The study found that serum-derived hsa_circ_101555 showed excellent diagnostic accuracy in differentiating HCC patients from healthy controls. It also demonstrated a prognostic role in predicting tumor progression and response to therapy, with significant correlations with markers of liver inflammation and tumor features.

Shining a light on age-related blindness

A new study from the University of Oklahoma is targeting cell communication in the hunt for therapies to slow macular degeneration. The research team is studying how cells in the retina communicate and whether the messages they send could be programmed to treat or slow AMD.

Pushing the limits of brain imaging: A new tool for targeted delivery of imaging agents and drugs

A novel cannula delivery system allows repeated, nondisruptive delivery of imaging agents to the mouse brain during long-term multiphoton microscopy. This innovation enhances longitudinal studies on brain function, disease progression, and potential treatments.

Mayo Clinic researchers study causes of rapidly progressive dementia

Researchers at Mayo Clinic are conducting a study to understand the factors that contribute to rapid progression of dementia in patients with Alzheimer's disease and Related Dementias. The team aims to identify biomarkers and disease-modifying targets that can improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes for these patients.

Clinical characteristics, treatment effects and risk factors of liver cirrhosis in patients with Wilson’s disease hepatic type

A single-center retrospective study analyzed clinical data, imaging, histopathological manifestations, genetic testing results, and treatment effects in 48 WD patients. The study found age at diagnosis, K-F ring presence, and higher immunoglobulin G levels were associated with cirrhosis risk factors.

Study focuses on resistance to androgen receptor-targeted therapy in advanced prostate cancer

Researchers discovered TBX2 drives therapy resistance by shifting signaling from the androgen receptor to the glucocorticoid receptor. The study identified a strategy to target this switch, potentially predicting patient risk and offering new treatment approaches.

Study identifies novel pathway with potential to slow the progression of pulmonary fibrosis

Researchers have discovered a potential new treatment for pulmonary fibrosis by targeting the Piezo2 receptor, which plays a critical role in stiffness-mediated profibrotic fibroblast phenotypes. Inhibiting Piezo2 expression or function may slow disease progression and offer new therapeutic options.

Study uncovers key role of RNA modifications in prostate cancer progression

Researchers mapped m6A patterns across 162 prostate cancer tumors and found that these modifications were closely tied to tumor aggressiveness. Analyzing m6A tags could help doctors predict disease behavior and determine personalized treatment strategies for patients with prostate cancer.

Second TB vaccination boosts immunity in bladder cancer patients and reduces cancer recurrence

A TB vaccination has been shown to boost the immune system of bladder cancer patients, reducing cancer recurrence rates by up to 75% in a small pilot study. The vaccine was well-tolerated with no side effects and showed promising results in improving patient outcomes.

Statin use and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma and liver fibrosis in chronic liver disease

A recent cohort study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that statin use was associated with a reduced risk of hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatic decompensation in patients with chronic liver disease. This suggests that statins may play a role in preventing the progression of liver disease and reducing the risk of liver cancer.

Brain mapping unlocks key Alzheimer’s insights

A new brain-mapping technique identified memory-related brain cells vulnerable to protein buildup, a key factor in Alzheimer's disease. The study found that certain cell types in the hippocampus and cortex were more affected by tau buildup.

Researchers identify a gene to guide novel therapeutics of nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases

The study highlights the significant protective role of Asah1 in preventing NAFLD progression by regulating hepatic lipid homeostasis and cellular maintenance processes. The findings suggest that targeting Asah1 expression or activity may inform new therapeutic strategies for improving patient outcomes.

Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation awards $4.4 million to top young scientists

The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has named 13 new Fellows, awarding them $300,000 each to investigate cancer causes and mechanisms. Five recipients of the Dale F. Frey Award for Breakthrough Scientists will also receive an additional $100,000 investment to catapult their research careers.

Effects of combining coronary calcium score with treatment on plaque progression in familial coronary artery disease

The study found that combining coronary calcium score with a primary prevention strategy in intermediate-risk patients with a family history of coronary artery disease reduces atherogenic lipids and slows plaque progression compared to usual care. This data supports the use of CAC scores to assist intensive preventive strategies.

Hepatic biliary adenofibroma: Histological characteristics, diagnostic challenges, and its role as a precursor to intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

Hepatic biliary adenofibroma (BAF) is a rare, benign tumor with histological characteristics distinct from other biliary tumors. Emerging case reports suggest potential for malignant transformation and overlap with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), highlighting diagnostic challenges and need for further research.

MD Anderson Research Highlights for February 26, 2025

Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center have identified biomarkers for predicting treatment response in metastatic breast cancer and found a potential target for tumor progression in pancreatic cancer. Additionally, they discovered that abnormal chromosome changes predict survival in patients with secondary acute myeloid leukemia.

Young women suffering menopause symptoms in silence, study reveals

Research from UVA Health and the Flo app finds that many women experience perimenopause symptoms as early as their 30s, including anxiety, depression, and physical problems. The study sheds light on the often-ignored transition period leading to menopause and aims to improve care and support for women approaching this stage.

New technique to measure circulating tumor DNA in metastatic cancer may improve disease progression surveillance and patient outcomes

Researchers introduce a dual threshold classifier to interpret circulating tumor DNA levels, enabling earlier detection of disease progression and personalized treatment. The study confirms that ctDNA levels are superior to traditional biomarkers like CA15-3.

New drug may reduce need for aortic valve surgeries by slowing disease progression

Researchers explore ataciguat to manage aortic valve stenosis, showing potential to significantly slow disease progression. The drug may enable a once-in-a-lifetime procedure by delaying valve replacement surgery.

ASCO GU symposium announces new findings on tumor reduction and survival outcomes in advanced renal cell carcinoma

Groundbreaking research from the CLEAR study reveals that greater tumor shrinkage improves survival outcomes for patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma. The lenvatinib and pembrolizumab combination regimen demonstrates significant long-term benefits, including enhanced effectiveness of subsequent treatments.

Study reveals genes that may help predict prostate cancer outcomes

A recent study reveals genes that may help predict prostate cancer outcomes, including androgen receptor AR-V7 and p160 gene family. The research suggests these genes could serve as potential prognostic biomarkers for prostate cancer, highlighting the importance of androgen signaling in disease progression.

Multisociety taskforce develops new standards to monitor adults with heart valve disease

A new standard dataset defines 16 clinical and patient-reported outcome measures for adults with heart valve disease. The International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) developed the globally inclusive standard dataset.

Boosting the gut barrier offers hope for Crohn’s disease

Researchers at University of Gothenburg have identified a critical mechanism to slow down Crohn's disease progression by repairing the protective barrier of the gut. By reinforcing the gut's natural defenses, new drug targets may be developed to treat the disease.

A simple supplement improves survival in patients with a new type of heart disease

A study published in Nature Cardiovascular Research found that tricaprin improved long-term survival and recovery from heart failure in patients with triglyceride deposit cardiomyovasculopathy. The supplement reversed structural changes and improved heart muscle function, leading to higher survival rates compared to controls.

MAGE-4 promotes tumor progression by halting antitumor responses

A study found that MAGE-4 drives the accumulation of plasma immune cells suppressing antitumor immunity in mouse and human non-small cell lung cancer models. The protein promotes tumor progression by losing a tumor suppressor gene, PTEN, accelerating development into metastasis.

Global study identifies markers for the five clinical stages of Parkinson’s disease

A global study analyzed brain images of over 2,500 people with Parkinson's disease to identify patterns of neurodegeneration and create metrics for each clinical stage. The research could lead to better diagnostic tools and enable new treatments to be tested and monitored.

Opening for a new type of drug for Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers from the University of Gothenburg have made a breakthrough in understanding the role of protein tau in Alzheimer's disease. By identifying specific amino acid modifications that occur before thread-like fibrils form, scientists hope to develop complementary drugs to combat the disease.

GLP-1 drug shows little benefit for people with Parkinson’s disease

A new study led by UCL researchers has found that the GLP-1 drug exenatide has no positive impact on movement, symptoms, or brain imaging in people with Parkinson's disease. The trial involved 194 participants and ran for 96 weeks, with no benefits shown in any of these areas.

University of Oklahoma researcher looks to turn back the clock on dementia

A University of Oklahoma researcher is exploring alternate strategies for identifying and targeting Alzheimer's and related diseases using a $2.2 million federal grant. The study aims to understand the mechanisms linking aging to cognitive decline, potentially leading to new treatments for dementia.

Bridging critical gaps in advanced heart failure care

The American Heart Association has launched a $3 million initiative to create nationwide education on advanced heart failure treatment options. The goal is to bridge critical gaps in care and improve patient outcomes, particularly for populations with limited access to healthcare resources.