Smac-ing lung cancer to death
Researchers developed a small molecule that turns the survival signal for cancer cells into a death signal, inducing apoptosis. The treatment may be less toxic to healthy cells than current cancer chemotherapy methods.
Cell Apoptosis
Articles tagged with Cell Apoptosis
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Drug slows prostate tumor growth by keeping vitamin A active
Researchers developed a novel compound that blocks the breakdown of retinoic acid, derived from vitamin A, and found it to be an effective agent in treating animal models of human prostate cancer. The compound resulted in up to a 50 percent decrease in tumor volume and prevented further tumor growth.
Relationship between environmental stress and cancer elucidated
A recent study elucidates the relationship between environmental stress and cancer by revealing how stress-inducing agents reduce SIRT1 enzyme activity, leading to increased cell survival. By targeting this process, researchers aim to develop new treatments that increase SENP1 activity to promote programmed cell death in cancer cells.
Large dose dexamethasone plays important roles in severe acute pancreatitis
A large dose of dexamethasone has been found to improve survival rates and reduce inflammation in rats with severe acute pancreatitis. The treatment also alleviated pancreatic tissue damage and induced apoptosis in acinar cells.
New cell death pathway involved in sperm development
Researchers have uncovered a new pathway that regulates killer proteins called caspases, which are essential for trimming down heavy sperm to make them better swimmers. This discovery provides insights into the causes of human infertility and opens up opportunities for developing drugs that can alter cell death for therapeutic purposes.
'Fetal' neurons play role in adult brain
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that approximately 10% of subplate neurons survive into adulthood and maintain functional connections. These cells generate electrical signals and receive inputs from neighboring neurons, undergoing plasticity to adapt to experience and activity.
Human C-reactive protein regulates myeloma tumor cell growth and survival
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a potential target for cancer treatment, promoting myeloma cell proliferation and protecting against chemotherapy-induced apoptosis. CRP enhances secretion of IL-6 and activates PI3K/Akt pathways, supporting tumor cell survival.
JCI table of contents: Sept. 6, 2007
Researchers discover ghrelin promotes thymopoiesis during aging, boosting T cell output, while also finding PPAR-gamma agonists exacerbate cardiac dysfunction due to glucolipotoxicity. Additionally, a study finds osteopontin deficiency in mice leads to improved insulin sensitivity despite obesity.
UGA study finds common component of fruits, vegetables kills prostate cancer cells
Researchers at UGA discovered that pectin reduces prostate cancer cell count by up to 40% through apoptosis. The study found pectin's anti-cancer properties under different treatment conditions, suggesting potential for developing pharmaceuticals or health-enhancing foods.
FSU chemists using light-activated molecules to kill cancer cells
Researchers at Florida State University have developed a new approach to targeting cancer cells using light-activated molecules that can induce apoptosis in both strands of DNA. By exploiting the unique property of these molecules, they can selectively kill cancer cells while sparing healthy ones.
Handicapping tuberculosis may be the way to a better vaccine
A genetically altered strain of tuberculosis has been developed that elicits a stronger immune response than the current vaccine, improving survival of infected animals. The new vaccine may help replace BCG, which is largely ineffective, and could lead to significant reductions in TB-related mortality.
Defining the active site of Bax
Scientists at the University of Nebraska Medical Center have discovered the long-sought-after homo-oligomerization domain of Bax, a key regulator of apoptosis. This finding provides new insights into the protein's structure and function.
Caffeine and exercise can team up to prevent skin cancer
A Rutgers study found that moderate caffeine intake combined with exercise can protect against UVB radiation-induced skin damage. Apoptosis rates increased by 95% in caffeine drinkers, 120% in exercisers, and nearly 400% in those who drank and exercised.
Bak protein sets stressed cells on suicide path, researchers show
Researchers found that Bak protein breaks down mitochondria into vulnerable spheres, allowing Bax to poke holes and release pro-death contents. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms of programmed cell death (apoptosis) and its potential role in diseases like stroke and cancer.
Cells re-energize to come back from the brink of death
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered that cancer cells can increase GAPDH production to counteract the backup self-destruct program CICD, allowing them to survive and thrive. The finding suggests that blocking this enzyme could kill abnormal cells, providing a basis for novel anti-cancer drugs.
K-State biologist hopes mosquito can break viral chain
A researcher at Kansas State University has created a special habitat for the yellow fever mosquito in an effort to understand how viruses disrupt programmed cell death. The goal is to determine if mosquitoes can be made immune to viruses, which could lead to breakthroughs in treating diseases like dengue fever and Alzheimer's.
Repair of DNA by Brca2 gene prevents medulloblastoma
The Brca2 gene plays a dual role in the developing nervous system, eliminating errors in the DNA of newly made copies of chromosomes and suppressing the onset of medulloblastoma. By repairing broken DNA, the Brca2 gene ensures normal size and function of rapidly dividing cells, preventing brain cancer.
Agent protects cells from lethal effects of radiation even if given after exposure
Researchers developed an agent that shields rapidly dividing cells from radiation-induced death, regardless of timing of administration. The treatment prevents apoptosis in immune system cells, providing proof-in-principle for a new approach to fending off radiation damage.
Popular herbal supplement hinders the growth of pancreatic cancer cells
A study from the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute found that triphala extracts can prevent or slow pancreatic cancer tumor growth in mice by inducing apoptosis. The herb was shown to activate tumor-suppressor genes, supporting the generation of proteins that promote cell death in cancer cells.
Preventing cancer without killing cells
Aging cells with dysfunctional telomeres can promote tumorigenesis, but p53-mediated senescence may suppress spontaneous cancer development. Activating the senescence pathway is sufficient to prevent tumorigenesis in mutant mice with dysfunctional telomeres.
A newly identified immunosuppressive protein in rheumatoid arthritis
A newly identified immunosuppressive protein, decoy receptor 3 (DcR3), is expressed in rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts and protects them from apoptosis. DcR3's expression is increased by TNFα, contributing to the excessive growth of synovial tissue in RA.
Finnish scientists discovered a new approach to treat virus-induced lymphomas
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have discovered a new effective treatment modality for KSHV-infected lymphomas by reactivating the p53 pathway. The study shows that Nutlin-3a, a small-molecule inhibitor, selectively induces massive apoptosis in PEL cells.
HIV protein enlisted to help kill cancer cells
Researchers have found a way to deliver a messenger into cancer cells that forces them to respond to death signals using an HIV protein. This approach has shown promise in killing cancer cells and could provide new treatment options for patients with deadly cancers.
Common anesthetic may induce cell death, generation of Alzheimer's-associated protein
Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital discover that isoflurane, a commonly used anesthetic, can lead to generation of amyloid-beta protein and apoptosis in brain cells. The study suggests caution when using the anesthetic for elderly patients at risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Tumor cells evade death through autophagy
Researchers found that tumor cells treated with agents inducing apoptosis were more likely to undergo autophagy when p53 expression was inhibited. Inhibiting autophagy increased the effectiveness of chemotherapy and delayed tumor recurrence in mouse models.
Carbon monoxide protects lung cells against oxygen-induced damage
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have demonstrated that low-dose carbon monoxide can significantly inhibit oxygen-induced damage to lung cells. The study's findings suggest that CO may expand therapeutic options for treating ARDS, a life-threatening condition with high mortality rates.
Forsyth scientists discover early key to regeneration
Scientists at The Forsyth Institute have discovered that programmed cell death is necessary for regeneration to occur. Apoptosis plays a critical role in development and a novel role in regeneration, allowing medically therapeutic regeneration. The study uses the Xenopus tadpole as a model organism.
WEHI researchers awarded $51 million by National Health and Medical Research Council
WEHI researchers will investigate impaired apoptosis and differentiation in tumourigenesis and therapy, as well as molecular regulation of blood cell production and function. The funding may lead to new approaches for cancer treatment and novel therapeutic strategies for blood disorders.
Mayo discovers protein as potential tactic to prevent tumors
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have discovered a protein pair that could be used to prevent tumors. The study found that CDK2 modifies FOXO1 in damaged cells, triggering apoptosis and potentially halting cancer cell growth. This breakthrough provides new hope for the development of targeted anti-tumor therapies.
Elevated testosterone kills nerve cells
A Yale University study reveals that high levels of testosterone can lead to programmed cell death in nerve cells, associated with conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Elevated testosterone also triggers behavioral changes such as hyperexcitability and suicidal tendencies.
Ethnicity and cancer susceptibility
Researchers have identified a genetic variation that affects cancer susceptibility in people of African descent, which may influence drug metabolism and response. The p53 tumor-suppressor protein is regulated by the ASPP family of proteins, with one form linked to increased cancer risk near the equator.
Key study offers hope to patients with lung and joint disease
A study published in Nature Medicine has found that certain non-biological drugs can dramatically reduce tissue inflammation by inducing apoptosis in inflammatory cells. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for patients with lung and joint diseases, including fibrosing alveolitis and rheumatoid arthritis.
When preventing pre-eclampsia, a little carbon monoxide goes a long way
Researchers found that carbon monoxide can prevent placental cell death caused by oxidative stress injury in a study published in The American Journal of Pathology. This finding suggests that carbon monoxide may be a possible treatment modality for pre-eclampsia, which affects 5-7% of pregnancies.
How secondhand smoke injures babies' lungs
Researchers found that environmental tobacco smoke suppresses nuclear factor kappa B signaling, increasing apoptosis in infant monkey lungs. This study highlights the dangers of secondhand smoke for unborn and newborn children, emphasizing the need to avoid exposure to prevent permanent lung damage.
Key event in cell death occurs as single, quick event
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have discovered that a key event during apoptosis occurs as a single, rapid event, rather than a step-by-step process. This finding sheds new light on how cells 'commit suicide' and highlights the importance of mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization in regulating apoptosis.
Understanding of cell protection mechanism points to therapies to prevent heart attacks and strokes
Queen's University researchers found that two genes cooperate to protect aortic smooth muscle cells from death, pointing to new therapies for preventing heart attacks and strokes. The study's findings suggest that delivering the HO-1 gene using gene therapy may help stabilize plaques and prevent clogging in arteries.
Scientists identify protein with a crucial role in cell death
Researchers discovered that PARL plays a key role in initiating apoptosis in mitochondria, leading to faster cell death and increased risk of diseases like Parkinson's. The study used 'knock-out' mice that lacked PARL, showing that the protein is essential for protecting cells from controlled cell death.
University of Minnesota researchers take new look at cellular suicide
Researchers at the University of Minnesota discover a protein's unexpected role in chopping up damaged DNA molecules, leading to cell death. The finding sheds new light on the process of apoptosis and its potential applications in cancer treatment.
Researchers find molecular 'brake' to cell death
Researchers at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center have discovered a natural mechanism to prevent apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells. The discovery reveals that adding ATP to cancer cells may actually impede apoptosis, highlighting a new potential target for cancer therapies.
UT Southwestern biochemist wins $1 million research prize for cell death, cancer insights
Xiaodong Wang's groundbreaking discoveries in programmed cell death have provided new directions for cancer treatment, highlighting the balance between cell birth and death. His work has also revealed key proteins like cytochrome c involved in apoptosis.
U. of Colorado team solves mystery of carcinogenic mothballs
The research team showed that naphthalene can block enzymes that initiate programmed cell death, leading to unchecked cellular proliferation and cancer. The study used a common worm known as C. elegans to develop a systematic way to screen potential cancer-causing chemicals in humans.
Protein's role in regulating cell death sets direction for cancer research
Researchers found that calpain promotes programmed cell death after cells are damaged, but also inhibits it in response to chemotherapeutic drugs. This discovery suggests that calpain inhibitors could improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation treatment in cancer patients.
Targeted virus compels cancer cells to eat themselves
Researchers develop a modified virus that targets telomerase-positive cancer cells, inducing autophagy to kill them. The treatment reduces tumor size and extends survival in mice with malignant glioma. Autophagy is a protective process that cells use to consume part of themselves when nutrients are scarce.
Understanding cell death may bring new life to kidney treatment
Researchers have identified two proteins, Bid and Bax, as major players in cell death during ischemic renal failure. The study aims to understand the process to manipulate it for better kidney treatment.
Capsaicin shows promise in inhibiting growth of pancreatic cancer
Researchers discovered capsaicin significantly reduces tumor size and induces apoptosis in human pancreatic cancer cells, with no harm to normal pancreatic tissue. The compound's potential use as a novel agent for prevention and treatment of pancreatic cancer is being explored.
A new metal detector to study human disease
Researchers have created a biochemical metal detector to measure tiny amounts of zinc inside living cells. The technique can detect free zinc concentrations even in healthy cells, shedding light on zinc's role in health and disease.
Pepper component hot enough to trigger suicide in prostate cancer cells
Researchers found that capsaicin induced apoptosis in human prostate cancer cells, reducing tumor size and proliferation. The study suggests capsaicin may slow prostate tumor development and production of PSA protein.
Faulty immune-priming cells start autoimmunity
Defective apoptosis in dendritic cells can lead to autoimmune diseases such as juvenile diabetes and lupus. Research suggests that unchecked dendritic cell activity or overactivation can trigger the immune system's attack on body tissues.
Proteins are key to cell death in heart disease, stroke and degenerative conditions
A study by Yale University researchers found that caspase 3 and caspase 7 are crucial for apoptosis, a process essential for embryonic development and immune system function. Mice lacking these proteins died within the first day of life due to defective cardiac development.
Researchers break chain of biochemical events that brain cancer cells use to evade therapy
Cedars-Sinai researchers discovered a biochemical pathway that makes gliomas and other cancer cells more sensitive to TRAIL, a protein inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. By combining TRAIL with pioglitazone, a diabetes drug, they aim to enhance the effectiveness of therapies targeting cancer cells.
Using statins to potentially treat rheumatoid arthritis
Researchers found that statins, such as fluvastatin, can induce apoptosis in RA synovial cells through the inhibition of protein geranygeranylation. This suggests that statins may be ideal therapeutic agents for treating rheumatoid arthritis. Further clinical trials are proposed to confirm these findings.
Bacterial protein mimics host to cripple defenses
Researchers discovered a bacterial protein that mimics a plant cell's programmed cell death (PCD) mechanism, rendering the pathogen harmless. The study sheds light on immunity and offers potential applications in controlling crop and human diseases.
Molecular imaging allows detection of plaques likely to rupture
Researchers used molecular imaging to detect atherosclerotic plaques likely to rupture in experimental rabbit models. The study found that dietary modification and statin therapy can decrease apoptosis and stabilize plaques, supporting the paradigm of prevention over treatment for coronary artery disease.
Food additive inhibits longevity enzyme in yeast, increases cell toxicity, new study finds
A new study found that the food additive dihydrocoumarin inhibits the activity of Sir2p and SIRT1 enzymes in yeast, which are forms of sirtuin also found in humans. This inhibition increases cell toxicity and decreases lifespan by up to 30%.
Scythe balances life and death during development
The Scythe protein is essential for normal lung, kidney, and brain development in embryos, and its absence leads to severe abnormalities. Understanding Scythe's function could provide insights into organ development and potentially lead to new treatments.
Pretreating rogue cancer cells with aspirin cripples their resistance to targeted therapy
Pretreating rogue cancer cells with aspirin enhances their sensitivity to targeted therapy by inducing apoptosis via mitochondrial release of cytochrome c. This combination may improve treatment outcomes for cancers overexpressing the HER-2/neu gene.
Researchers uncover mechanisms of estrogen in promoting cell death in breast cancer
Estradiol induces apoptosis by activating the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, which controls protein expression and mitochondrial function. The study found complete tumor regression in mice with estradiol-treated breast cancer cells, suggesting a potential strategy for aromatase inhibitor resistance.
Columbia study suggests benefits of Zyflamend® in the early treatment of prostate cancer
A recent Columbia University study published in Nutrition and Cancer showed that Zyflamend reduces prostate cancer cell proliferation by up to 78% and induces cancer cell death. The research confirms Zyflamend's COX-1 and COX-2 anti-inflammatory effects, with independent anti-cancer benefits against prostate cancer cells.
The 'upstairs/downstairs' mystery of cell suicide is burdened by too much evidence
Despite over 100,000 research papers on apoptosis, the process remains unclear due to numerous signaling pathways involved. The 'upstairs/downstairs' model proposes critical steps occur before and after mitochondria breakdown, but identifying key pathways is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Suppression of FOXO1a gene might kill resistant ARMS tumors
The study found that suppression of the FOXO1a gene is necessary for ARMS cells to survive and avoid programmed cell death. The researchers believe that targeting this gene could lead to effective treatment options for children with ARMS tumors.