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New study suggests more than 8 percent of children with cancer have genetic predisposition

Researchers analyzed genomic data from 1,120 pediatric cancer patients and found that 8.5% had pathogenic germline mutations in cancer predisposition genes. This study suggests that comprehensive genomic screening may be necessary for all pediatric cancer patients, not just those with a family history of cancer.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 18, 2015

Hot on the trail of the hepatitis-liver cancer connection

Scientists from RIKEN have found that chronic hepatitis infection and inflammation can lead to similar genetic mutations in liver tumors, potentially paving the way for targeted therapies. The study identified changes in mutations associated with aggressive biliary-type liver cancers and discovered new targets for future treatments.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 30, 2015

Gene sequencing projects link two mutations to Ewing sarcoma subtype with poor prognosis

A collaboration between St. Jude Children's Research Hospital-Washington University Pediatric Cancer Genome Project and Institut Curie-Inserm identified frequent mutations in genes STAG2 and TP53 that define a subtype of Ewing sarcoma associated with reduced survival. The study provides critical insights into the genetic changes that d...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalCancer Discovery·DateNov 12, 2014

Molecular aberration signals cancer

Researchers at Simon Fraser University have discovered that non-coding RNAs are perturbed in cancerous human cells, allowing for early detection of breast and lung cancers. The study's findings suggest that these molecules can be used to classify patients into subgroups with different survival outcomes.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalEMBO Reports·DateFeb 19, 2014

Researchers develop software tool for cancer genomics

A new bioinformatics software tool, DrGaP, has been developed to identify genetic mutations responsible for cancers. The tool combines statistical methods and bioinformatics tools to distinguish between driver mutations and passenger mutations, leading to a more complete identification of altered genes and signaling pathways in cancer.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateAug 26, 2013

Patients should have right to control genomic health information

Bioethicists argue that patients should not be forced to receive genomic information about future health risks without their consent. The ACMG recommendations on reporting incidental findings in clinical genome sequencing are seen as problematic due to concerns over patient autonomy and cost implications.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateMay 9, 2013

Singapore scientists led by A*STAR's GIS identify 4 mechanisms that contribute to gastric cancers

Researchers at A*STAR's Genome Institute of Singapore discovered four processes that cause mutations in gastric cancer, including one triggered by bacterial infection. These findings pave the way for diagnostics and targeted therapy, with potential implications for improving treatment outcomes.

JCI early table of contents for July 16, 2012

Researchers have discovered a new target for treating acute myeloid leukemia by targeting cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1), which promotes differentiation of cancer cells. Additionally, inflammation has been found to play a significant role in age-related retinal degeneration.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 16, 2012

World's largest release of comprehensive human cancer genome data helps speed discoveries

The St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has released the world's largest comprehensive human cancer genome data, exceeding volume of all other sources combined. This valuable information is available for free access by researchers, accelerating disease research and potentially leading to new treatment options for childhood cancers.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 29, 2012

Scientists map genetic evolution of leukemia

Researchers sequenced DNA from cancer cells in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes who later developed leukemia, finding that the disease is an early form of cancer. The study suggests that targeted cancer drugs should be aimed at mutations that develop early in the disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 14, 2012

Rigged to explode?

Researchers found a strong link between an inherited TP53 gene mutation and chromothripsis, a condition where chromosomes shatter and reassemble incorrectly. This discovery has significant implications for diagnosis and treatment, as patients with the mutation may be at high risk of developing certain types of cancer.

Chemotherapy may influence leukemia relapse

Researchers found that chemotherapy can lead to DNA damage in cancer cells, which can cause them to evolve and become resistant to treatment. The study suggests that targeted therapies based on individual mutations may be more effective than current treatments.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 11, 2012

Scientists sequence endangered Tasmanian devil's genome

Researchers use genome sequencing and analysis to identify individuals for captive breeding programs, aiming to maximize genetic diversity and prevent extinction. The study provides insights into the impact of European settlement on Tasmanian devil genomic diversity.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 27, 2011