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Cells united against cancer

Researchers at the University of Helsinki discovered that tightly organized epithelial cells can suppress malignant cell proliferation, with a focus on the LKB1 tumor suppressor gene. The study found that epithelial cells lacking LKB1 protein form disorganized structures enabling cancer genes to drive proliferation.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 27, 2007

Scripps research scientists show protein accelerates breast cancer progression in animal models

Researchers found that pleiotrophin expression activates stromal cells to remodel the tumor microenvironment, inducing tumor angiogenesis and aggressive breast cancers. PTN secretion from human breast cancer cells may be sufficient to shift progression to a more aggressive form of breast cancer.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2007

Cancer stem cells can go it alone

A breast cancer cell line has been found to behave like cancer stem cells, allowing researchers to study the dynamics of cancer stem cells in tissue. This breakthrough could lead to targeted treatments for breast cancer by specifically targeting cancer stem cells for destruction while leaving normal stem cells intact.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2007

What's in the water? Estrogenic activity documented in fish caught in Pittsburgh's rivers

A new study documents estrogenic activity in fish caught in Pittsburgh's rivers, suggesting feminizing chemicals from industrial and municipal wastes. The findings demonstrate the potential health risks of consuming river-caught fish, particularly for endocrine-mediated health endpoints like some cancers and developmental problems.

New cell type identified in cancer development

Scientists have discovered a new type of cell that plays a role in cancer development, which can either remain benign or become malignant depending on environmental cues. The finding may help define the role of cancer stem cells in tumor growth and recurrence.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 13, 2007

Breast cancer treatment heats up

Scientists have developed a method for delivering thermal ablation directly to tumor cells using nanotechnology and molecular imaging. By attaching magnetic iron-containing bioprobes to cancer cells and heating them with an alternating magnetic field, researchers were able to weaken and destroy malignant cells without damaging nearby h...

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMar 6, 2007

Small molecule offers big hope against cancer

Researchers at the University of Alberta discovered that dichloroacetate (DCA) can normalize mitochondrial function in various cancers, leading to a significant decrease in tumor growth. DCA's unique mechanism may allow it to selectively target cancer cells while sparing normal tissues.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 16, 2007

JCI table of contents: December 7, 2006

Researchers discovered that changes in expression of one component of the TGF-beta receptor, T-beta-RIII, might provide a mechanism for the distinct effects of TGF-beta at different stages of breast cancer. Additionally, analysis of RB functionality could help clinicians determine the most effective therapy for their patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 7, 2006