Cancer Cells
Articles tagged with Cancer Cells
Researchers identify the mechanism by which genome-doubled tumors evade the immune system in breast cancer
Slowly ticking breast cancer cells offer new clues to late relapse
Researchers have identified a hidden mechanism explaining why breast cancer can return years after successful treatment. Slow-growing breast cancer cells can form microscopic tumours that silently tick away in distant organs, evading detection for decades.
City of Hope researchers to share new immunotherapy and precision medicine insights across cancer types at ASCO 2026
At ASCO 2026, City of Hope experts will present research on innovative treatments for various types of cancer. Their findings include the efficacy and safety of immunotherapy combinations, as well as the potential use of CBM588 to enhance immune checkpoint blockade in metastatic renal cell carcinoma.
DNA errors found to help tumors survive
T cells secrete DNA to boost the immune system’s cancer-fighting ability
Researchers discovered that activated T cells secrete vesicles carrying DNA that enters immune and tumor cells to enhance the immune response against tumors. Preclinical experiments showed that this approach can boost T cell attacks against tumors and improve treatment outcomes.
How a cell doubles its DNA matters more than we thought
Researchers examined two mechanisms of whole genome duplication in cells, finding that cytokinesis failure leads to more stable and viable cells, while mitotic slippage results in uneven chromosome distribution and reduced viability. The study suggests targeting chromosome separation could help limit survival of abnormal cells.
An unprecedented view of the immune system’s killer cells
Researchers visualize immune synapse and cytotoxic granules with unprecedented level of detail, revealing new perspectives in immuno-oncology. The study uses cryo-expansion microscopy to provide a near-native view of T lymphocyte mechanisms.
Extra sets of chromosomes may help aggressive tumor cells spread, study finds
A new study from Tulane University found that extra sets of chromosomes in tumor cells make them more mobile and likely to engulf neighboring cells. This stress response triggers an abundance of proteins, reprogramming the cells for motility and phagocytosis.
Study reveals dynamic interactions between brain tumors and immune cells
Researchers at DZNE discovered complex, situation-dependent interactions between glioblastoma cells and microglia in the brain. The study found that microglial activity changes as tumors spread, influencing containment and spread of the disease.
New cancer research tool predicts patient survival at single-cell resolution
A new method called scSurvival uses single-cell genetic data to identify which cells inside a tumor are most strongly linked to patient survival. The approach pinpoints harmful and helpful cell populations that can drive disease progression, enabling better understanding of why patients with the same cancer have different outcomes.
A CNIO group contributes to identifying which breast lesions will progress to cancer, thus helping avoid overtreatment
A study by the CNIO group has identified a genetic signature in precancerous breast lesions that can predict which ones will evolve into invasive tumours. This discovery could help avoid over-treatment of women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ, a common precancerous lesion.
Key protein that drives the spread of aggressive breast cancer identified
A specific protein, PKC-eta, has been identified as a central driver of aggressive breast cancer cell migration and metastasis. Reducing PKC-eta activity significantly slows tumor growth and reduces metastatic spread in laboratory and animal models.
Cancer Dependency Map Consortium launches Phase 3 to accelerate next-generation therapeutics
The Cancer Dependency Map Consortium is launching Phase 3 to expand its research beyond cancer vulnerabilities to investigate resistance and surface targets. The consortium aims to develop novel oncology targets and biomarkers for the next generation of cancer therapies.
CRISPR variant selectively targets tumor DNA
Researchers identified a CRISPR variant that distinguishes tumor DNA from healthy DNA and selectively cuts the former. This method relies on methyl groups attached to DNA, which are altered in cancer cells.
New imaging tools help cancer researchers see inside living cells
A new study co-led by OHSU scientist Catherine Galbraith introduces a series of fluorescent dyes that enable the observation of dynamic biological processes in living cells. These tools allow scientists to study cancer-related processes, such as DNA packaging and gene expression, in real-time.
UCalgary led International study explores why multiple myeloma patients often relapse after immunotherapy
A University of Calgary-led study found that multiple myeloma tumour cells adapt in multiple ways to become resistant to treatment, highlighting the need for personalized cancer therapy. The research aims to develop next-generation treatments designed to anticipate and overcome these changes.
Base-resolution DNA methylation map of MDS stem cells reveals new disease mechanism
Researchers generated a comprehensive view of DNA methylation abnormalities in human MDS HSCs, uncovering a novel TET2-GFI1 axis that suppresses malignant transformation. The study identifies key hematopoietic regulators and provides a panoramic view of DNA methylation disruption in MDS.
Antidepressant unable to prevent chemotherapy-associated nerve damage
A randomized trial found that duloxetine does not prevent painful neuropathy caused by oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with stage II or III colorectal cancer. The study suggests that duloxetine should only be used for managing existing neuropathy, not prevention.
New method makes cancer cells more visible to immune system
Researchers have discovered a new method to make cancer cells more visible to the immune system by blocking NMD, allowing faulty RNA to be used by cells to produce abnormal proteins. This increased visibility of antigens on cancer cells could improve immunotherapy response rates and lead to better outcomes for patients.
Alliance marks Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is enrolling adolescent and young adult cancer patients in various trials, including genetic services and treatment studies. These trials aim to address longstanding gaps in care and improve outcomes for AYAs with cancer.
A redesigned endoscope offers a new way to look for early signs of ovarian cancer
A redesigned endoscope, called CAFE, offers a new way to detect early signs of ovarian cancer by combining high-resolution imaging with gentle cell collection. The device successfully imaged fallopian tube tissue and collected large numbers of epithelial cells, suggesting its potential for earlier disease detection.
A stretchy, heat-activated skin patch could be a surgery-free melanoma treatment
Researchers have developed a potential non-invasive treatment for melanoma using a stretchy, heat-activated skin patch that releases copper ions to kill cancer cells. The patch reduced melanoma lesions by 97% in a preliminary animal study, with no damage to surrounding tissue.
Cancer treatment: Understanding risks and side effects
Researchers used machine learning methods to identify safe time windows for outpatient stem cell therapy in multiple myeloma patients. The study found that this approach can predict adverse events and enable more precise risk assessment.
OHSU study uncovers internal cell ‘trade winds’ that drive movement and repair
Researchers at OHSU have discovered a previously unknown system of internal 'trade winds' that help cells rapidly move essential proteins to the front of the cell. This breakthrough reveals that cells don't rely on random diffusion but instead create targeted streams of fluid to push proteins forward.
An avatar to study pediatric brain cancer
A team of researchers has created a 3D model of pediatric brain tumors using biopsy-derived organoids, allowing for more accurate testing of new drugs. The model, which accurately reproduces the human environment, preserves the molecular characteristics of the original tumor and maintains cellular heterogeneity.
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.
How vitamin B2 could pave the way to new cancer therapies
Researchers have discovered that vitamin B2 protects cancer cells from ferroptosis, a type of programmed cell death. By targeting vitamin B2 metabolism, cancer cells may become more susceptible to ferroptosis, paving the way for new cancer therapies.
Molecular garbage on tumors makes easy target for antibody drugs
Researchers at UCSF have discovered a new therapeutic target, SRC, present on up to half of all tumors, which can be targeted with antibody drugs. The enzyme, normally hidden inside cells, is exposed on the surface of tumor cells due to an overactive disposal system, making it an easy target for cancer-killing antibodies.
Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology highlights new and open colorectal cancer trials in March
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is spotlighting new trials for colorectal cancer in March, focusing on early detection methods and treatments for treatment delays and loss of appetite. The trials aim to improve patient outcomes, with several enrolling patients with newly diagnosed colon or rectal cancer.
Overcoming ovarian cancer’s resistance to immunotherapy
A new study demonstrates that blocking a signaling protein called FAK helps mobilize an anti-tumor immune response, allowing tumor-fighting cells to approach tumors and shift the behavior of other immune cells to work against them. This approach achieved the best effects on immune cell recruitment, tumor size reduction, and survival ti...
Understanding how extracellular vesicles from cancer cells end up in urine
Cancer cell-derived small extracellular vesicles can be excreted into urine, according to researchers who tracked their journey in mouse models. The study reveals that glomerular cells actively transport sEVs across the filtration barrier, supporting their use in emerging urine-based cancer diagnostics.
Researchers played music to cells – aggressiveness of laryngeal cancer decreased
The study discovered that restoring cellular vibration decreases cancer growth and severity in laryngeal cancer. Researchers exposed cancer cells to sound-wave vibration, leading to a decrease in a protein promoting cancer growth.
AI-based liquid biopsy may detect liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and chronic disease signals
Researchers developed an AI-based liquid biopsy test that detects early liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, and reveals signals of broader chronic disease burden. The test uses genome-wide cell-free DNA fragmentation patterns and repeat landscapes to identify disease-specific signatures.
New study identifies growth hormone receptor as possible target to improve lung cancer treatment
Researchers at Ohio University discovered that blocking the growth hormone receptor may help make lung cancer treatments more effective. Patients with low GHR tumors survived significantly longer than those with high GHR tumors, highlighting a potential new target for therapy.
Trashing cancer’s ‘undruggable’ proteins
Scientists developed a new platform using protein-like polymers to target and degrade cancer-driving proteins like MYC and KRAS. The approach triggers cancer cell death, offering hope for treating aggressive and drug-resistant cancers.
New study suggests a “kick it while it’s down” approach to cancer treatment could improve cure rates
A new study suggests that switching to a second treatment while a tumor is still responding to the first may improve cure rates. The 'kick it while it's down' approach targets small tumors and has been shown to be successful in other contexts, such as combatting antibiotic resistance.
Scientists now know why ovarian cancer spreads so rapidly in the abdomen
Ovarian cancer cells recruit protective mesothelial cells in abdominal fluid to form hybrid cell clusters that resist chemotherapy. These clusters use spike-like structures called invadopodia to invade surrounding tissue. The discovery opens new treatment possibilities and could help doctors monitor disease progression.
Study: Blocking a key protein may create novel form of stress in cancer cells and re-sensitize chemo-resistant tumors
A new study suggests blocking key protein p300 can create novel form of cellular stress in cancer cells, re-sensitizing chemo-resistant tumors. Cells produce proteins even with damaged DNA, leading to toxic buildup and stress inside the cell's internal quality-control system.
Scientists ID potential treatment for deadliest brain cancer
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have identified a molecule that blocks the gene responsible for glioblastoma, a fast-growing and deadly brain cancer. The compound shows promise in preventing the invasive cancer from spreading through the brain without causing harm to healthy tissue.
UCLA scientists identify optimal design for off-the-shelf immunotherapy targeting solid tumors
A UCLA research team has identified the best design for a promising new type of immunotherapy that could be mass-produced to treat multiple solid tumors. The 4-1BB-containing CAR design emerged as superior, demonstrating strongest anti-tumor activity and persistence.
Randomized trial finds drug therapy reduces hot flashes during prostate cancer treatment
A national clinical trial found that oxybutynin significantly reduced hot flash frequency and quality of life for men undergoing hormone therapy for prostate cancer. The study showed substantial improvements in hot flash symptoms, often within the first week of treatment.
New AI tool helps doctors treat cancer patients after heart attack
Researchers developed an AI tool called ONCO-ACS to predict the risk of secondary heart attacks in cancer patients after a heart attack. The tool combines cancer-related factors with standard clinical data to provide reliable information for doctors to balance treatment benefits and harms.
Cells have a built-in capacity limit for copying DNA, and it could impact cancer treatment
Researchers identify a protein, PAF15, as a natural brake that prevents DNA replication from becoming overloaded and protects cells from the replication catastrophe. In cancer cells, high levels of PAF15 may create a vulnerability for targeting rapidly dividing tumor cells.
Blood biomarker points to increased risk of brain metastasis in patients with inflammatory breast cancer
Researchers identified a targetable driver of brain metastases in inflammatory breast cancer, promoting tumor invasion and triggering brain inflammation via the CXCR2 signaling pathway. Targeting sEcad or the CXCR2 pathway may treat or prevent brain metastasis.
Lab-grown organoids reveal how glioblastoma outsmarts treatment
Researchers developed miniature 3D tumor organoid models that closely mimic the human brain, revealing how glioblastoma interacts with surrounding brain cells and immune system. The models identified PTPRZ1 as a key regulator of tumor behavior, which helps determine its aggressiveness.
Discovery of key metabolic regulation mechanisms in cancer development
Researchers identify acetylation as a fine cellular regulatory mechanism that affects pyruvate kinase function and stability. The study reveals isoform-specific regulation of PKM by acetylation, which helps understand how cancer cells proliferate.
Decoded: How cancer cells protect themselves from the immune system
Cancer researchers have identified a key mechanism by which cancer cells protect themselves from the immune system. The study found that MYC protein can bind to RNA molecules, eliminating alarm signals that would activate the immune defense.
Cancer’s super-enhancers may set the map for DNA breaks and repair: A key clue to why tumors become aggressive and genetically unstable
Researchers found that cancer's powerful genetic on switches, called super-enhancers, drive intense gene activity, causing DNA breaks and stress. This can lead to accumulation of mutations over time, fueling cancer's evolution.
New understanding of how to harness the immune system to fight cancer
Georgetown University researchers discovered a method to enhance the function of T cells, making them more effective in killing cancer cells. By inhibiting PARP, an enzyme that detects DNA abnormalities, scientists can boost the body's immune response against tumors.
Seeing thyroid cancer in a new light: when AI meets label-free imaging in the operating room
Researchers combined Dynamic Optical Contrast Imaging (DOCI) with machine learning to identify thyroid cancer during surgery. The AI analysis framework accurately classified samples across three categories and generated tumor probability maps for precise location identification.
Cleveland Clinic Research links tumor bacteria to immunotherapy resistance in head and neck cancer
Two studies found that elevated bacteria levels in tumors weaken immune response, driving resistance to immunotherapy. Researchers are now exploring how to identify patients most likely to benefit from immunotherapy and develop targeted interventions to restore its effectiveness.
Night shifts aren’t just tiring, they can be deadly
A new study from Texas A&M University reveals that circadian disruptions change the structure of mammary glands, weaken immune defenses, and fuel aggressive breast cancer. Disabling an immune checkpoint molecule called LILRB4 helps restore the immune system's ability to fight back.
Subtyping colorectal cancer
Researchers at Kyoto University identified five molecular subtypes of colorectal cancer stem cells and developed a practical prognostic indicator, the general colorectal cancer signature (GCS), to predict patient outcomes. The GCS was validated with a novel orthotopic xenograft mouse model and showed promising clinical significance.
Singapore scientists show targeting cancer stem cells can prevent gastric cancer recurrence
Researchers from A*STAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology discovered that Aquaporin-5 (AQP5) reliably marks gastric cancer stem cells, which drive tumour growth, spread, and recurrence. Eliminating these cells prevents tumours from growing, even in advanced disease with organ metastasis.
Cancer-fighting bacterial product ‘cocktails’ may offer personalized treatment
A team at Penn State has developed a novel approach to treating bladder cancer using bacterial mixtures, known as microbial product cocktail immunotherapy. This method uses AI to personalize the treatment for each patient and has shown promising results in mice with bladder cancer, more than doubling long-term cancer survival rates.
Scientists to ‘spy’ on cancer- immune cell interactions using quantum technology breakthrough
Dr Aldona Mzyk's project uses quantum sensors to track how immune cells interact with tumours, enabling the development of improved patient-tailored cancer therapies and earlier diagnosis tools. The research aims to overcome current cancer immunotherapies' failure in solid tumours by controlling metabolic changes.
Early relapse predicts poor outcomes in aggressive blood cancer
A global study found that patients with mature nodal T-cell lymphoma who relapsed within 12 months of initial treatment had worse survival outcomes, but improved survival when treated with targeted therapies instead of chemotherapy. The results suggest the need for personalized treatment strategies for high-risk patients.
Targeting collagen signaling boosts drug delivery in pancreatic cancer
Researchers from Okayama University and Tohoku University have identified a promising way to breach the physical and biochemical barrier created by fibrosis in pancreatic cancer. By blocking collagen signaling through DDR1, they improve drug delivery and enhance treatment response.