A newly discovered tumor suppressor gene affects melanoma survival
A newly discovered tumor suppressor gene, RASA2, has been found to affect melanoma survival. Restoring its function in melanoma cells caused them to stop growing and die.
Melanoma Cells
Articles tagged with Melanoma Cells
Arteries better than veins for liquid biopsy
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that arterial blood contains a higher number of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) than venous blood in uveal melanoma patients. This discovery raises concerns about the effectiveness of current detection techniques, which often rely on venous blood samples.
New genetic mutation identified in melanoma cancer cells
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have discovered a genetic mutation in melanoma cancer cells that may predispose humans to developing the disease. The study highlights the importance of protein complex APC/C and its interactions with Cdh1 and PAX3, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for melanoma treatment.
Penn scientists identify key genetic factor that keeps moles from turning into melanoma
Scientists have discovered a major genetic factor that prevents moles from becoming cancerous, and created a realistic model of melanoma for testing new therapies. The study found that the p15 protein acts as a powerful brake on cell division in moles.
Tel Aviv University researcher discovers trigger of deadly melanoma
A new study published in Molecular Cell identifies the precise trigger that causes melanoma cancer cells to transform into invasive killer agents, pinpointing a key role for 'Notch signaling' in this process. Understanding this mechanism may lead to new prevention and treatment strategies.
BUSM researchers funded by Melanoma Research Alliance to bring new therapies to patients
Researchers Neil Ganem and Anurag Singh at Boston University School of Medicine are developing new strategies to inhibit the growth of chromosomally unstable cancer cells expressing oncogenic BRAF. They have identified two major types of NRAS networks in melanoma, which may be targeted with selective anti-cancer agents.
Melanoma mutation rewires cell metabolism
Researchers discovered that a melanoma mutation activates ketogenesis enzyme HMG-CoA lyase, turning on fat breakdown in cancer cells. This rewiring of metabolism may explain why V600E mutation is common in melanomas and provide alternative strategies to existing drugs targeting the mutation.
Moffitt researchers discover mechanism leading to BRAF inhibitor resistance in melanoma
Researchers found that increased levels of fibronectin create a protective environment reducing the effectiveness of BRAF inhibitors. Targeting both tumor cells and their adaptive responses is crucial for improved therapeutic outcomes.
Genomic discovery of skin cancer subtypes provides potential 'signpost' for drug targets
Researchers identified four melanoma subtypes, including BRAF, RAS, NF1 and Triple-WT, through analysis of 331 patient samples. These subtypes share common signaling pathways but differ in activation, suggesting potential for targeted therapies.
Adoptive immunotherapy may help treat more types of cancer if new approaches are explored
A special issue of Immunotherapy explores emerging concepts in adoptive cell immunotherapy (ACT) to extend its effects to a wider range of solid and hematological cancers. The journal reviews new strategies to address challenges and potentially improve treatment options for more cancer types.
Sanford-Burnham researchers identify a new target for treating drug-resistant melanoma
Sanford-Burnham researchers have identified a new molecular pathway, JAK1, that drives resistance to BRAF inhibitor treatment in melanoma tumors. Targeting JAK1 may improve the effectiveness of current therapy for patients with drug-resistant melanoma.
Cell type responsible for scarring, skin-cancer growth identified by Stanford scientists
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified a cell type, EPF cells, that plays a major role in scarring and skin cancer growth. They found that inhibiting the activity of these cells may alleviate scarring and slow down melanoma growth, providing potential new treatment options.
Protein finding can pave the way for improved treatment of malignant melanoma
Researchers have linked a new protein, megalin, to aggressive malignant melanoma cells that are more likely to spread. The protein's presence can improve cancer cell division and survival, making it a potential marker for early detection and targeted treatment options.
Melanoma's 'safe haven' targeted for shut-down
Scientists have identified a 'safe haven' effect in melanoma cells that shields them from targeted treatments. Adding a second experimental drug targeting a protein called FAK has shown promising results in slowing down tumor growth and improving cell death rates.
Epigenomic changes play an important role during the progression of melanoma
Researchers identified proteins and DNA regions binding to epigenetic changes in melanoma progression. Knocking out these proteins made the tumor less aggressive and more responsive to existing treatments.
Macrophages may play critical role in melanoma resistance to BRAF inhibitors
Researchers discovered that macrophages activate the MAPK pathway, leading to increased tumor growth. Blocking this pathway reverses macrophage-mediated resistance and increases antitumor activity of BRAF inhibitors.
Two cell-signaling molecules found to suppress the spread of melanoma
Two tiny bits of non-coding genetic material, miR-382 and miR-516b, have been found critical to stalling melanoma's spread in early-stage tumors. These microRNAs may help identify patients most likely to spread and benefit from more aggressive therapy.
New technology directly reprograms skin fibroblasts for a new role
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered a way to directly reprogram skin fibroblasts into functional melanocytes, the body's pigment-producing cells. This technique has significant implications for developing new cell-based treatments for skin diseases and screening strategies for melanoma.
New way to turn genes on
Researchers at MIT have successfully turned on any desired gene in living cells using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. This breakthrough enables scientists to study gene function and identify genes involved in diseases, such as melanoma. The new method has also been used to screen for genes that confer resistance to cancer drugs.
UNC scientists discover hidden subpopulation of melanoma cells
Researchers identify a new type of melanoma cell in blood vessels that resists anti-angiogenic therapies. The cells, which express the protein PECAM1, help tumors evade treatment by forming functional blood-filled channels.
Scientists find molecular 'breadcrumb trail' that helps melanoma spread
Researchers found that melanoma cells break down nearby LPA molecules to create a trail, leading to the bloodstream and new sites in the body. This creates an aggressive cancer that spreads quickly and is difficult to treat.
Scientists find molecular 'breadcrumb trail' that helps melanoma spread
Researchers found melanoma cells create their own 'green light' signal using lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) to spread quickly and aggressively. This 'breadcrumb trail' allows cancer cells to travel rapidly around the body, making treatment challenging.
Calming down immune cells could hold key to melanoma treatment
Researchers at Cancer Research UK found that blocking a chemical signal produced by macrophages can shrink melanoma tumors and make them easier to treat. This discovery suggests that targeting this 'survival signal' could lead to new ways to treat the disease, which is responsible for around 13,300 deaths in the UK each year.
Re-expression of an embryonic signaling pathway in Melanoma utilizes different receptors
Research finds that metastatic melanoma cells and embryonic stem cells use distinct Type I serine/threonine kinase(s) for Nodal signal transduction, providing new therapeutic targets. The study's findings support a combinatorial approach to targeting Nodal subpopulations within tumors.
Dartmouth research links genetic mutation and melanoma progression
Researchers at Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine have found that the genetic mutation BRAFV600E promotes melanoma tumor growth by modifying normal cells around the tumor. Targeting this mutation with Vemurafenib reduces aggressive growth and suggests new treatment options for melanoma therapy.
Scientists learn more about rare skin cancer that killed Bob Marley
Acral melanomas, which affect the hands and feet, have unique DNA damage patterns not caused by UV radiation. Researchers sequenced tumor samples and found distinct genetic faults driving this rare skin cancer. Understanding these faults may lead to better treatments for acral melanoma.
Patient, tumor characteristics for high-mitotic rate melanoma
A study found that high-mitotic rate melanomas are more likely to occur on the head and neck, grow rapidly, and be present in older men with a history of solar keratosis. These tumors have distinct clinical features, including nodular structure and amelanosis, which may pose a challenge to timely detection.
Piggy-backing cells hold clue to skin cancer growth
Researchers found that fast-growing melanoma cells 'piggy-back' with invasive cells to establish new tumors, increasing the disease's deadly potential. The discovery could lead to new treatments for aggressive melanoma.
CNIO researchers discover more than 40 melanoma-specific genes that determine aggressiveness
Researchers at the Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) have discovered over 40 genes that predict melanoma aggressiveness and distinguish it from other cancers with poor prognoses. These genes are involved in the formation of endosomes, which play a crucial role in tumor cell behavior.
Drug shows promise for the first time against metastatic melanoma of the eye
A new drug called selumetinib has been found to delay progression of metastatic uveal melanoma, increasing progression-free survival by over double that of chemotherapy. The study's findings demonstrate a potential treatment approach for this rare and deadly form of melanoma.
Study offers evidence that sunscreen use in childhood prevents melanoma in adults
Research conducted at Texas Biomedical Research Institute found that sunscreen use in infancy and childhood reduces malignant melanoma incidence in adulthood by 10-fold. The study used a natural animal model, gray short-tailed opossums, to test the effectiveness of sunscreen against UV-induced melanoma.
Study compares survival for treatments of uncommon eye cancer
A study found that selumetinib improved cancer progression-free survival time and tumor response rate in patients with advanced uveal melanoma, but had no impact on overall survival. Treatment-related adverse events were common, affecting nearly all patients.
New insight into drug resistance in metastatic melanoma
Researchers at the University of Manchester have discovered how melanoma drugs can lead to cancer progression when treatment is stopped. Using a combination of BRAF and MEK inhibitors shows promise in combating drug resistance in advanced metastatic melanoma.
Melanoma of the eye caused by 2 gene mutations
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine have identified two gene mutations that cause uveal melanoma, a type of eye cancer. They also found that an existing FDA-approved drug can slow tumor growth in experiments with mice.
Exact outline of melanoma could lead to new diagnostic tools, therapies
Scientists discovered that low levels of RXR protein can cause normal skin cells to transform into cancerous melanoma cells, making it vulnerable to diagnosis. The study's findings may lead to new therapies by stabilizing or stimulating RXR expression.
Sanford-Burnham presents cancer research at AACR
Sanford-Burnham will present various cancer research findings at the AACR annual meeting, including novel methods of drug delivery and novel targets for breast, melanoma, and prostate cancers. Researchers will also discuss epigenetic mechanisms and cancer metastasis.
JCI online ahead of print table of contents for April 1, 2014
New research reveals a melanoma-specific biomarker for predicting immune dysfunction. A murine model of glucocorticoid-induced glaucoma has also been developed, highlighting the role of ER stress in disease progression.
UV light aids cancer cells that creep along the outside of blood vessels
A recent study by UCLA scientists and colleagues reveals that UV light significantly enhances the ability of melanoma cells to creep along the outside of blood vessels, leading to increased metastasis. The research demonstrates that exposure to UV radiation triggers inflammation, attracting immune cells that promote this process.
Sunburns strike twice
Researchers discovered that sunburns contribute to melanoma development through inflammatory processes in surrounding tissue. Melanoma cells migrate along blood vessels in inflamed skin, with activated neutrophils playing a key role in metastasis.
Tel Aviv University scientists honored for proposals in melanoma research
Two TAU researchers received $1.35 million in funding for their proposals on melanoma cell movement to the brain and tumor disarmament. Prof. Satchi-Fainaro's team aims to develop targeted nanotherapies, while Dr. Markel's team seeks to enhance immunotherapy success rates.
The number of tumor cells spread to sentinel lymph nodes affects melanoma prognosis
Researchers found that patients with high tumor cell density in sentinel lymph nodes are more likely to die from melanoma within 5 years. A new model predicts patient survival more accurately, identifying those at high risk for progression and those with excellent long-term outcomes.
Dartmouth scientists develop protocol to harvest mouse cell lines for melanoma research
Researchers at Dartmouth have developed a protocol to harvest and culture mouse melanoma cells, which are rare in human form but prevalent in mice. This breakthrough allows for more accurate modeling of human melanoma, potentially leading to new treatments.
$12.5 million, five-year research grant allows scientists to tackle melanoma from multiple angles
A team of researchers from The Wistar Institute and the University of Pennsylvania are working on a five-year project to better understand melanoma biology and develop more effective treatments for the disease. They aim to overcome drug resistance by targeting different mutations and combinations of therapies.
JCI early table of contents for Dec. 2, 2013
Researchers identified a distinct Treg cell population expressing ICOS that predicts better clinical outcomes in melanoma patients treated with high-dose IL-2 therapy. A SOD1 pharmacological inhibitor reduced tumor growth in mice, suggesting inhibition of antioxidants as a viable chemotherapeutic option.
Predicting outcome for high-dose IL-2 therapy in cancer patients
A study found that ICOS+ Treg populations expand after HD IL-2 treatment, predicting better clinical outcomes for patients. The distinct Treg population identified may help determine which patients benefit from high-dose IL-2 therapy.
Researchers identify genomic variant associated with sun sensitivity, freckles
A genetic variant in the IRF4 gene is linked to reduced melanin production, leading to increased UV radiation sensitivity and conditions like freckling. Researchers also explore the role of epigenetic variation in this trait.
UCLA research could enhance treatments for drug-resistant melanoma
Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have discovered key cell-signaling pathways used by BRAF-mutant melanoma to resist inhibitor drugs. The studies provide a better understanding of how tumors adapt and become resistant to treatment, ultimately leading to the development of new combination treatments.
How 'phenotype switching' can make melanoma become metastatic and resistant to drugs
The study identified Wnt5A as a key player in promoting melanoma metastasis and therapy resistance. By understanding the role of Wnt5A, researchers may be able to identify patients who are more likely to respond to BRAF inhibitors and develop new targeted therapies.
Compound in grapes, red wine could help treat multiple types of cancer, study finds
A recent study found that resveratrol makes tumor cells more susceptible to radiation treatment, with a 65% success rate compared to 44% when used alone. The compound may be effective in treating symptomatic metastatic tumors, such as melanoma and prostate cancer.
Sunscreen saves superhero gene
Researchers found sunscreen provides 100% protection against all three forms of skin cancer: BCC, SCC, and malignant melanoma. The study also revealed sunscreen shielded the p53 gene, which prevents cancer. No DNA changes were detected in skin samples where sunscreen was applied.
Cutting off all points of escape for melanoma cells
Researchers discovered a potential target for melanoma therapy in the S6K protein and found that a triple combination of drug inhibitors halted the growth of resistant tumors. Early studies also showed no evident signs of toxicity, making this approach a promising new strategy to combat drug-resistant melanoma.
Sanford-Burnham researchers identify new target for melanoma treatment
Researchers identify phosphoinositide-dependent kinase-1 (PDK1) as a critical regulator in melanoma development and metastasis. Inhibiting the PDK1 enzyme delays tumor growth and almost completely abolishes metastasis, offering new therapeutic opportunities for this life-threatening disease.
T-rays offer potential for earlier diagnosis of melanoma
Researchers have explored using terahertz radiation to detect early signs of melanoma, which starts in pigment-producing cells beneath the skin. T-rays can penetrate a few millimeters through cloth and skin, allowing for biochemical signatures of cancer to be detected, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Single injection may revolutionize melanoma treatment, Moffitt study shows
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center are investigating whether an injectable dye called PV-10 can shrink tumors and reduce the spread of cancer in melanoma patients. The study shows promising results, with a significant reduction in skin cancer lesions and melanoma tumors that had spread to the lungs.
Study helps explain increased melanoma risk in individuals with red hair
Researchers discovered that the MC1R gene mutation responsible for red hair also promotes a well-known cancer-causing pathway, increasing the risk of developing melanoma. The study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying this increased susceptibility, potentially leading to the development of targeted treatments.
New therapy improves life span in melanoma patients with brain metastases, SLU researchers find
Researchers at Saint Louis University found that high-dose interleukin-2 (HD IL-2) therapy can improve the life span of melanoma patients with brain metastases. The study, published in Chemotherapy Research and Practice, reviewed cases of eight patients who underwent this treatment.
Tide is turning in skin cancer battle
Recent advances in melanoma research have put the deadly skin cancer at the forefront of cancer research, raising hopes that scientists and clinicians may have cornered the deadliest form of skin cancer. New diagnostic tools and targeted therapies are showing promise in blocking cancer-causing signaling pathways.
JCI early table of contents for June 24, 2013
A study finds a link between prenatal ICP and postnatal obesity in offspring, while another investigation reveals genetic changes in preeclampsia and brain inflammation caused by chronic cannabis use. These findings may have implications for understanding and treating metabolic diseases and pregnancy complications.
Modified immune cells seek and destroy melanoma
Researchers engineered dendritic cells to recognize protein fragments from cancer-specific antigens, eliciting an immune response that led to partial and complete clinical responses in patients with active disease. The study suggests a promising approach for enhancing immune recognition of melanoma cells.
Herding cancer cells to their death
Researchers develop a therapeutic strategy that manipulates cellular heterogeneity to treat advanced melanoma. The approach uses a new drug-like molecule in combination with an existing chemotherapy, targeting only melanoma cells and suppressing tumor growth and metastasis.