Genetics of melanoma chemoresistance
Researchers find that melanoma cells can develop an invasive phenotype when exposed to anti-melanoma drugs, leading to relapse. Blocking CCL2 or its upstream effectors may represent a novel therapeutic approach.
Melanoma Cells
Articles tagged with Melanoma Cells
Leucine deprivation proves deadly to malignant melanoma cells
Researchers at Whitehead Institute found that depriving human melanoma cells of the essential amino acid leucine can lead to their death. Leucine deprivation triggers apoptosis in melanoma cells, providing a potential framework for targeted therapy. The study suggests that inhibiting autophagy with chloroquine may enhance this effect.
RNA spurs melanoma development
Research reveals that long non-coding RNA SPRY4-IT1 promotes cellular survival and invasion in melanoma cells, suggesting its potential as an early biomarker. The study also found reduced levels of another non-coding RNA, miR-211, in melanoma cells.
Topical treatment may prevent melanoma
Researchers have found that repeated topical application of ISC-4 can reduce tumor cell expansion by 80-90% and decrease tumor development in mice skin by about 80%. The compound is safe and kills melanoma cells two to five times more effectively than normal cells.
NIH researchers complete whole-exome sequencing of skin cancer
Researchers from the NIH have completed a comprehensive genome analysis of skin cancer, revealing key mutations that contribute to melanoma. The study identified 16 genes deemed to be melanoma driver mutations, including the oncogene BRAF and the ionotropic glutamate receptor gene GRIN2A.
JCI online early table of contents: April 11, 2011
Researchers have discovered a protein that improves vascular regeneration in mice with heart attacks, and found that manipulating this protein could be used to treat various vascular diseases. Additionally, studies on mouse models have revealed plasticity in the pathways that control insulin secretion, offering new insights into diabet...
NYU Cancer Institute experts present at the AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011
Researchers from NYU Cancer Institute presented several promising findings at the AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011. They developed a novel test to detect early-stage asbestos-related pulmonary cancer with high accuracy, and explored treatment strategies for glioblastomas. Additionally, they mapped genome-wide nickel-related cancer effect...
Viral replicase points to potential cancer therapy
Researchers have developed an artificial plasmid coding for Sindbis virus replicase genes that causes regression of lung and melanoma tumors in mice. The plasmid forces cells to produce double-stranded RNA, leading to cell death and activation of immune responses.
2 new targets for melanoma therapies
Researchers found two new proteins that accelerate melanoma in zebrafish models, SETDB1 and DHODH, which could lead to new treatments. Leflunomide, an arthritis drug, also showed promise by blocking the production of RNA nucleic bases, a key step in cancer cell growth.
Earning its stripes
A new gene called SETDB1 has been found to promote melanoma growth and invasion in a zebrafish model. The researchers also discovered that SETDB1 is present at high levels in 70% of human melanoma samples, suggesting its potential role in the formation of most cases.
Arthritis drug could help beat melanoma skin cancer
Researchers have identified leflunomide as a potential treatment for melanoma, a form of skin cancer with high mortality rates. The study found that the drug restricts tumour growth in mouse models, and when combined with another therapy, it achieves almost complete blockage of tumour growth.
Researchers discover possible biomarker and therapeutic target for melanoma
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have identified Neuropilin-2 as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for melanoma. The novel cell screening method clarifies the process behind tumor metastasis and may allow the identification of biomarkers for other aggressive cancers.
Novel immune system-based gene therapy induces strong responses in metastatic melanoma, sarcoma
A novel form of personalized therapy using genetically engineered anti-tumor immune cells shows promising results in treating metastatic melanoma and synovial cell sarcoma. The technique, called adoptive immunotherapy, resulted in response rates of 45% and 67% in malignant melanoma and synovial cell sarcoma patients, respectively.
Protein involved in early steps of melanoma development revealed
Researchers at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute have unraveled the relationship between MITF and ATF2, a transcription factor involved in melanoma development. The study reveals that the ratio of ATF2 to MITF in melanoma cells can predict survival in melanoma patients.
Mount Sinai researchers make major breakthrough in melanoma research
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine have discovered a protein that suppresses the progression of malignant melanoma by regulating an oncogene called CDK8. The study found that when macroH2A is present in early-stage melanoma, it slows down the disease's growth and metastasis.
Killing drug-resistant melanoma requires combination therapy
Researchers at The Wistar Institute found that tumor cells can adapt to BRAF inhibitors by re-routing signals through alternate pathways. To overcome resistance, targeting multiple signaling pathways simultaneously is key, with compounds in clinical development showing promise.
More evidence that melanoma does not conform to the cancer stem cell model
Researchers found that most melanoma cells can drive disease progression and cannot be cured by targeting rare sub-populations. The study suggests that all melanoma cells have the ability to form tumors and change genes on the fly.
Newly discovered regulatory mechanism essential for embryo development and may contribute to cancer
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine identified a novel regulatory mechanism controlling protein TCF3, essential for embryonic development and potentially leading to cancer diagnosis and therapy. This discovery may enable early detection of cancers and develop drugs targeting the modified TCF3.
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateOct 28, 2010
New approaches to skin cancer prevention
Researchers introduce new ways to encourage at-risk groups to visit a dermatologist, using age threshold and payment system. The initiatives aim to improve early diagnosis and treatment, reducing deaths and costs associated with skin cancer.
Melanoma uses body's immune system to spread to lungs
A study published in Cancer Research found that melanoma cells can use the body's immune system, specifically neutrophils, to control lung metastasis development. By disrupting the interaction between cancer cells and neutrophils, a therapy could decrease lung metastases by about 50 percent.
'Co-conspirator' cells could hold key to melanoma prediction, prevention
Researchers at Oregon State University have identified adjacent skin cells called 'co-conspirators' that play a key role in the development of melanoma. The study found that these cells send signals to pigment-producing cells, which can either prevent or promote melanoma growth.
Seeing melanoma
A new imaging technique, combining photoacoustic tomography and a smart contrast agent, produces three-dimensional images of melanoma with high accuracy. This enables surgeons to remove only the malignant tissue while maintaining clean margins.
Advance toward earlier detection of melanoma
Scientists have developed a substance to enhance visibility of skin cancer cells during scans, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved survival rates for patients with melanoma. The new technique uses photoacoustic tomography and a bioconjugated gold nanoparticle agent that targets skin cancer cells.
UCLA scientists create army of tumor-fighting immune cells and watch as they attack cancer
Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center created a large battalion of tumor-seeking immune system cells that can locate and attack melanomas in real-time. The genetically engineered lymphocytes were injected into mice and found to kill the cancer within two to three days, paving the way for potential treatment in humans.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2010
Professor discovers way to slow the growth of malignant melanoma
A new study from Queen's University has found that the growth of malignant melanoma can be slowed when MicroRNA 193b is added. Increased levels of miR-193b led to lower levels of cyclin D1 and decreased melanoma cell growth.
UVA radiation damages DNA in human melanocyte skin cells and can lead to melanoma
A new study by NYU School of Medicine found that UVA radiation causes mutations in human melanocyte cells, leading to melanoma. Melanocytes are more vulnerable to UVA damage due to their limited DNA repair capacity.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2010
Melanoma-initiating cell identified by Stanford scientists
Researchers identified a protein marker, CD271, on cancer cells in human melanomas that evade current treatments. The cancer-initiating cells were found to be self-renewing and differentiating into other tumor cell types, making them resistant to therapies.
Researchers identify key enzyme in melanoma cell development
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University have discovered a mechanism by which an enzyme regulates gene expression and growth in melanoma cells. The enzyme selectively targets and degrades microRNA-221, a genetic component that helps melanoma cells thrive and resist chemotherapy.
SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 17, 2010
Interleukin-10 a prognostic factor in treatment with autologous melanoma vaccine
Researchers found that high interleukin-10 levels in tumor cells are associated with worse prognosis after autologous melanoma cell vaccine treatment. High IL-10 levels can downregulate the immune response, decreasing the effectiveness of the vaccine.
NYU Cancer Institute experts present at American Society of Clinical Oncology annual meeting
Researchers from the NYU Cancer Institute will present studies on improved ways to diagnose melanoma in lymphatic vessels and investigate genetic differences between melanoma subtypes. Laura Hogan, a pediatric hematology and oncology fellow, is also honored for her outstanding work in pediatric oncology research.
Wistar scientists explain the persistence of melanoma through 'dynamic stemness'
Melanoma cells can self-renew and induce new tumors, defying the traditional cancer stem cell model. Targeting both bulk tumor cells and slow-growing JARID1B-positive subpopulations is proposed as a dual therapy to combat therapy resistance.
Tips from the American Journal of Pathology
Intestinal ischemia/reperfusion damages the intestine's lining, allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Caveolin-1 modulates endothelial nitric oxide synthase activity to regulate innate immunity. Development of intestinal lymphoid follicles relies on dendritic cell recruitment.
The sound of melanoma can help doctors find cancer
Researchers have developed a new technique using photoacoustics to locate cancer cells in lymph nodes, enabling doctors to make more accurate diagnoses. This technology could help reduce the time and effort required for pathologists to determine if melanoma has spread to the lymphatic system.
Melanoma stem cells' evasive talents
Researchers at Children's Hospital Boston discovered that melanoma stem cells produce molecules inhibiting the immune system, triggering regulatory T-cells to dampen anti-tumor responses. These cells also stimulate surrounding cells' production of IL-10, suppressing the immune system.
News brief: Knockdown of E2F1 reduces invasive potential of melanoma cells
Knockdown of E2F1 gene significantly reduced the invasive potential of melanoma cells without affecting proliferation rates. EGFR expression was also decreased in E2F1-silenced cells, further supporting the role of E2F1 in cancer progression.
SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 23, 2009
Heart transplant patients appear to have elevated risk for multiple skin cancers
A study of 312 heart transplant patients found that nearly half developed skin cancer during a 19-year follow-up period. The majority of these cancers were squamous cell carcinomas, with risk factors including age, other types of cancer, and immunosuppressive medication use.
JNCI news brief: Melanosome dynamics and sensitivity of melanoma cells to chemotherapy
Researchers found that damaged melanosomes are toxic to melanoma cells and that functional melanosomes in late-stage cancer cells make them more resistant to treatment. Manipulating melanosome status could lead to new therapeutic avenues for treating pigment-producing cell-related diseases.
SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 24, 2009
UT Southwestern researchers launch study into search-and-destroy antigen for deadly skin cancer
Researchers are testing a tumor-specific protein called recombinant human melanoma antigen A3 (MAGE-A3) to track down and kill cancer cells in patients with recurring melanoma. The study aims to generate a search-and-destroy program targeting deadly melanoma cells through the immune system.
Researchers identify new method to selectively kill metastatic melanoma cells
Researchers at VCU have discovered a new approach to eliminate aggressive melanoma cells by triggering self-destruction through programmed cell death, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies for cancer patients.
Novel epigenetic markers of melanoma may herald new treatments for patients
Scientists have identified novel epigenetic markers in melanoma that can be used to develop new treatments. The markers, which are alterations to DNA chemical modifications, were found to be correlated with gene repression and can be reversed by treating cancer cells with a drug called decitabine.
New method separates cancer cells from normal cells
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel method to separate cancer cells from normal cells by directing their movement along preferred directions. The technique utilizes ratcheting technology and has the potential to create a
New therapeutic target for melanoma identified
Researchers have identified Mcl-1 as a critical protein in melanoma cell resistance to anoikis, enabling metastasis and survival. Depletion of Mcl-1 makes melanoma cells susceptible to apoptosis, suggesting a viable treatment strategy.
New method for detection of phosphoproteins reveals regulator of melanoma invasion
Scientists have developed a new approach to survey phosphorylation in cells, revealing a previously uncharacterized protein that plays a crucial role in cancer cell invasion. The study identified ninety phosphorylation events regulated by oncogenic B-Raf and found that one target, MINERVA/FAM129B, is involved in melanoma progression.
JCI online early table of contents: April 6, 2009
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified a signaling pathway that initiates the flushing response associated with nicotinic acid. Analysis of human cell lines revealed that beta-arrestin proteins play a key role in this process, which may be targeted to prevent side effects while maintaining therapeutic benefits. I...
Scientists create mouse model of melanoma that generates hope for the use of targeted therapies
Researchers created a mouse model of melanoma that replicates the earliest stages of skin cancer in humans. Testing two drug therapies caused a statistically significant regression in cancer cell development, offering hope for new treatment approaches.
A new measure for the malignancy of melanoma
Researchers discovered a correlation between Ang2 concentrations in blood samples and disease progression in metastatic malignant melanoma. Higher Ang2 levels were associated with larger tumors and more advanced disease stages.
NYU Langone Medical Center researchers find micro RNA plays a key role in melanoma metastasis
Researchers found that microRNA 182 is over-expressed in metastatic melanoma cell lines and tissues, leading to increased invasive capacity and metastatic potential. Inhibiting miRNA 182 may be an effective therapeutic strategy for metastatic melanoma.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2009
Stress may hasten the growth of melanoma tumors
Research suggests that stress can increase the production of proteins that support tumor growth and angiogenesis in aggressive melanoma cells. Beta-blocker medications may slow this process, offering potential improvements for patients' quality of life.
UBC researchers discover gene mutation that causes eye cancer
UBC researchers have discovered a gene mutation in GNAQ that is responsible for 45% of uveal melanoma cases. This finding may lead to the development of therapeutic interventions against some melanomas.
U-M scientists probe limits of 'cancer stem-cell model'
Researchers at the University of Michigan found that a quarter of melanoma cells are 'tumorigenic' and can form new tumors, contradicting previous estimates. The study suggests that targeting these rare cancer stem cells may not be effective in treating melanoma.
T cell response to new melanoma antigen linked to relapse-free survival
A study by French researchers found that infused T cells recognize a new protein called meloe-1, which is highly expressed in melanoma cells but not normal skin cells. Meloe-1-specific T cells were more common among patients who remained relapse-free, suggesting this strategy may improve adoptive immunotherapy efficacy.
New data on melanoma treatment
A genetic variant in the cyclin D1 gene is associated with a higher risk of developing melanoma. Individuals carrying two copies of the variant are 80% more likely to develop the disease. Extended and escalated dose chemotherapy shows no survival benefit in advanced melanoma cases.
Nanomedical approach targets multiple cancer genes, shrinks tumors more effectively
Researchers develop nanoparticles that deliver siRNA to cancer cells, reducing tumor growth and size by up to 70%. Targeting multiple genes simultaneously leads to synergistic effects, offering a promising personalized medicine approach.
History of nonmelanoma skin cancer is associated with increased risk for subsequent malignancies
A study found that individuals with a history of nonmelanoma skin cancer are at two-fold increased risk of developing subsequent cancers, including basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. The association was strongest in younger participants, suggesting a possible inherited predisposition to cancer.
SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 26, 2008
NYU researchers demonstrate activity of mebendazole in metastatic melanoma
Researchers at NYU Cancer Institute have identified mebendazole as a potential treatment for metastatic melanoma, exploiting its ability to target cancer-causing proteins. By inactivating the protein Bcl-2, mebendazole induces programmed cell death in malignant melanoma cells.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cancer Research·DateAug 7, 2008
The genetics of the white horse unraveled
A study by Uppsala University has identified the genetic mutation responsible for white horses' coats and found a link to an increased risk of melanoma. The dominant Greying with age mutation is shared among Grey horses, suggesting a common ancestor lived thousands of years ago.
As rates rise, researchers find better way to identify melanoma
Researchers have identified a new protein produced excessively in malignant melanoma, which may help distinguish it from benign moles. The discovery offers a potential target for treatment and could improve diagnosis of skin cancer rates rising among young women.
Novel enzyme inhibitor paves way for new cancer drug
Scientists at The Wistar Institute have developed a novel enzyme inhibitor that effectively blocks a key biochemical pathway in cancer development. By targeting the PI3K enzyme, the agent shows promise in treating melanoma by dampening overactive enzyme activity that leads to uncontrolled tumor growth.
Scientists identify interacting proteins key to melanoma development, treatment
Researchers at Penn State have discovered how a mole develops into melanoma by showing the interaction of two key proteins involved in 60-70 percent of tumors. Targeting these proteins is necessary for effective drugs to treat melanoma, and personalized cancer treatment could be more effective with fewer side effects.
Report describes first targeted therapy to produce remission of metastatic melanoma
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute report the first case of metastatic melanoma driven into remission by a targeted therapy. A 79-year-old woman with abdominal tumors was treated with Gleevec (Imatinib) after lab tests revealed an abnormality in the KIT gene.