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Molecule fights cancer on 2 fronts

Researchers have developed a synthetic anti-cancer molecule JK-31 that blocks the signalling of a 'growth factor' chemical promoting blood vessel networks to feed tumours. The molecule also inhibits a protein controlling cancer cell division and proliferation.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 13, 2014

Modeling tumor dormancy

A new computational model developed at Princeton University may help understand tumor dormancy, a phenomenon that can last up to 25 years in pancreatic cancer. The model predicts that tumors are likely to grow rapidly when the number of dividing cells reaches a certain critical level.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 16, 2014

Hijacking stress response in cancer

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that NRF2 signaling plays a role in regulating cell metabolism, leading to increased energy production and tumor cell proliferation. The study demonstrates the importance of targeting Nrf2 with small molecule inhibitors to intervene in therapeutic resistance.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 2, 2013

UCLA researchers reveal how 'cleaving' protein drives tumor growth in prostate, other cancers

Researchers at UCLA's Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine have discovered that the Trop2 protein promotes the self-renewal of cancer cells through a mechanism involving cleavage. This finding may lead to the development of new therapies that block Trop2 molecular signaling, stopping tumor growth in various epithelial malignancies.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalGenes & Development·DateOct 15, 2012

Sugar-free approach to treating Kaposi sarcoma

Researchers found that blocking galectin-1 in mice with established Kaposi sarcomas slowed tumor growth by suppressing blood vessel formation. This breakthrough holds promise for new treatment options for patients with KS and may also be effective for other diseases characterized by aberrant blood vessel growth.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateOct 1, 2012

Scientists aim to kill lung tumors

Researchers have identified a molecule, PDE4, that plays a key role in regulating the division of tumor cells and blood vessel growth in lung cancer. By blocking PDE4, they were able to significantly reduce tumor growth in laboratory experiments and mouse models.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalOncogene·DateMay 4, 2012

New hybrid 'NOSH aspirin' as possible anti-cancer drug

Scientists have combined NO- and H2S-releasing designer aspirins into a hybrid substance called NOSH-aspirin, which appears more effective in controlling cancer growth than either of its predecessors. The new compound inhibits the growth of various cancer cells, including breast, colon, and leukemia, with minimal harm to normal cells.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters·DateFeb 29, 2012

Boston University research suggests new pathways for cancer progression

Researchers at Boston University have created a 3D model that simulates the growth of cancer tumors, suggesting that softening of cancer cells accelerates proliferation and extends lifetime, leading to rapid tumor growth. The study provides a new quantitative approach to understanding tumor development based on mechanical properties.

SourceBoston University College of Engineering·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 8, 2012