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Expanding cell girth indicates seriousness of breast cancer

Researchers have created a rapid cell inspection technique that can identify metastatic breast cancer cells, which have compromised the cell's structure and compromise deformation. The technique uses an electrical field within a microscopic fluid-filled channel and has been shown to expand cells by 75% in metastatic cases.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateSep 18, 2008

Duke chemists synthesize promising anti-cancer product

Researchers at Duke University have synthesized largazole, a marine algae extract with potential as an anti-cancer agent. The team's efficient synthetic route enables the production of gram-sized quantities, paving the way for further study and potential treatment of various cancers.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2008

New cancer gene found

Researchers at the OU Cancer Institute have identified a new gene called RBM3 that causes cancer. The gene is vital for cell division in normal cells but leads to increased tumor formation when overexpressed in cancerous cells.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalOncogene·DateMay 8, 2008

Specific gene increases susceptibility to breast cancer

A new study identifies a specific genetic variation in the FGFR2 gene that alters its binding to regulatory proteins, leading to increased expression and an elevated risk of breast cancer. The mutation occurs in non-coding regions of the gene, affecting its regulation rather than protein production.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 5, 2008

Other highlights in the April 29 JNCI

A mathematical model suggests that women with wild-type CYP2D6 genotype may derive as much benefit from tamoxifen as from aromatase inhibitors, potentially leading to personalized therapy approaches. Additionally, a study finds that cancer stem cells resistant to standard chemotherapy are responsive to targeted therapy.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 29, 2008

Protein in embryonic stem cells controls malignant tumor cells

A study led by Mary J. C. Hendrix found that the Lefty protein, secreted only in human embryonic stem cells, inhibits growth and spread of melanoma and breast cancer cells. This breakthrough suggests potential therapeutic modalities for cancer treatment and highlights the utility of isolating factors within the embryonic microenvironment.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2008

JCI online early table of contents: Jan. 2, 2008

A new study by Atsushi Mizoguchi and colleagues established that IL-22 ameliorates disease in a mouse model of ulcerative colitis. The authors suggested that individuals with UC might benefit from local delivery of the IL-22 gene to their intestines.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 2, 2008

CSHL scientists identify and repress breast cancer stem cells in mouse tissue

Researchers at CSHL have identified and repressed breast cancer stem cells in mouse tissue by manipulating microRNAs, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for breast cancer treatment. The study found that the delivery of the microRNA let-7 to breast-tissue cells can help distinguish stem-like tumor-initiating cells from other cells.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 17, 2007

MicroRNA regulates cancer stem cells

Researchers discovered a genetic switch that regulates critical properties of cancer stem cells using microRNAs. Activating this switch, let-7, can push cancer stem cells to differentiate and lose their tumorigenic abilities, offering a novel approach to targeting these cells with therapeutic RNAs.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateDec 13, 2007