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Scientists grow precursors for human pigment cells

Researchers at Kobe University successfully grew precursors for human pigment cells, providing a stable supply of melanocytes for research on melanoma and other pigment cell-related illnesses. These precursor cells can be used to study the causes of albinism, freckles, and melanoma.

SourceKobe University·JournalPigment Cell & Melanoma Research·DateMay 9, 2019

Cancer: Central role of cell 'skeleton' discovered

Research shows that branched actin transmits information to cells about their environment and regulates growth, a mechanism that can be targeted to fight certain types of cancer. Inhibiting branched actin formation prevents the growth of melanoma cells, offering new therapeutic options.

SourceCNRS·JournalCell Research·DateApr 10, 2019

Protein 'spat out' by cancer cells promotes tumor growth

Researchers at the University of Bradford discovered a protein, EN2, released by cancer cells that alters normal cell behavior, promoting tumour growth and evading the immune system. The study found that both cancer and normal cells take up the protein, leading to changes in shape or fusion, allowing cancer cells to reactivate and spread.

SourceUniversity of Bradford·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 26, 2019

MD Anderson study may explain why immunotherapy not effective for some patients with metastatic melanoma and kidney cancer

A new study by MD Anderson Cancer Center suggests that certain B cells with unique characteristics can predict which patients are most likely to respond to immunotherapy for metastatic melanoma and kidney cancer. The researchers found that activated B cells with specific phenotypes were associated with a better response to treatment.

Heating up cold tumors

Researchers have identified a cellular mechanism by which cold tumors can be made susceptible to immunotherapy. The study found that inducing UCP2 expression in tumor cells prompts an anti-cancer immune response, drawing killer T cells and conventional type 1 dendritic cells into the microenvironment.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNature Immunology·DateJan 22, 2019

Combining three treatment strategies may significantly improve melanoma treatment

A study combining three advanced treatments for malignant melanoma shows promising results in animal models, with the triple combination producing near-total eradication of tumors. The use of oncolytic viruses, MEK inhibitors and immune checkpoint blockers enhances therapeutic responses, offering new hope for patients with melanoma.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 12, 2018

Cutting the legs off cancer

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have discovered that blocking a specific molecule can prevent cancer cells from spreading. The study found that inhibiting tissue type plasminogen activator (tPA) blocked melanoma growth and metastasis in mice. This breakthrough offers new possibilities for cancer therapy, potentially improving ou...

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateNov 20, 2018

How to make fish shine

Researchers from the University of Bath have identified the genetic basis for iridophore formation in zebrafish, a process that allows shoals to flash silver. The study used a combination of genetic techniques and mathematical modeling to pinpoint key genes driving this complex process.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 10, 2018

Crossing new frontiers in melanoma research

The article addresses provoking questions in melanoma immunotherapy, cancer systems biology, and medical oncology. Researchers focus on understanding pigmentation and pigmentary diseases through big data science, collaborative team science, and individualized medicine.

SourceWiley·JournalPigment Cell & Melanoma Research·DateOct 3, 2018

Shedding light on 100-year-old cancer mystery

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute found that cancer cells redirect energy production when lactate dehydrogenase is inhibited, instead relying on glutamine to sustain growth and survival. This discovery identifies a potential new target for melanoma treatment by targeting the ATF4-signaling pathway.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateSep 12, 2018

Scientists test new cancer vaccine against melanoma

Researchers developed a new cancer vaccine that boosts the immune system's ability to fight cancers, suggesting increased chances of recovery in cases where drug therapy alone is not working. The vaccine, called Diprovocim, was shown to produce a complete response in treating melanoma and preventing recurrence.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 6, 2018

Scientists identify weak point in deadly eye melanoma

A natural plant compound called FR900359 has been identified as a potential treatment for uveal melanoma, shutting down the overactive signaling that drives cell growth. The compound traps G alpha q in its inactive state, preventing tumor cell growth and potentially reversing cancer-like changes.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Signaling·DateSep 5, 2018

Retinoic acid may improve immune response against melanoma

Researchers found that adding retinoic acid to standard-of-care treatment for melanoma can turn off myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) that resist immune treatments, leading to increased immune system activity. The study showed a safe and promising strategy to target MDSCs, which could be a useful addition to immunotherapies for ...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalInternational Immunopharmacology·DateAug 16, 2018

Idera Pharmaceuticals presents clinical data from the ILLUMINATE-204 trial of the combination of tilsotolimod and ipilimumab for anti-PD-1 refractory metastatic melanoma at the 2018 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting

The ILLUMINATE-204 trial shows an overall response rate of 38% with 2 complete responses, suggesting a promising strategy for treating patients with metastatic melanoma unresponsive to PD-1 therapy. The combination regimen is generally well-tolerated, with fewer than a quarter of patients experiencing immune-related toxicities.

Skin cancers linked with reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease

A new study found that individuals with malignant melanoma had a 61% lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to those without the condition. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas also showed significant reductions in AD risk, with correlations of 82% and 92%, respectively.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology·DateApr 19, 2018

Joint supplement speeds melanoma cell growth

A dietary supplement commonly used to strengthen joints can also speed the growth of a type of melanoma, according to preclinical research. Chondroitin sulfate boosts growth in melanoma cells carrying the V600E mutation, but not other types, and may pose risks for people with elevated melanoma risk.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 15, 2018