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Using patient-derived research models to study deadly DNA loops

Researchers used patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models to study deadly DNA loops in cancer cells. They found significant similarities between human tumor samples and PDX models, including consistent presence of extra copies of oncogenes. These findings suggest that ecDNA-positive tumor cells may drive tumor growth and recurrence.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalGenome Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 5, 2026

Cholesterol-craving cancers need lipid enzymes to use metabolites for growth

Researchers discover that kinases play a crucial role in moving cholesterol to activate a growth pathway in aggressive cancers. Without these enzymes, cancer cells are blocked from fueling tumor growth. The study highlights the importance of targeting lipid enzymes as a potential treatment strategy for cancers with TP53 mutations.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2026

NTU Singapore and Oxford scientists reveal how cells repair toxic DNA damage linked to cancer and premature ageing

Researchers at NTU Singapore and Oxford University have discovered a mechanism by which cells identify and repair highly toxic DNA damage, known as DPCs, that cause cancer, neurodegeneration, and premature ageing. The study reveals how SPRTN, a key repair enzyme, selectively targets DPC lesions, increasing its activity 67-fold.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2025

Influenza virus hacks cell's internal system

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg discovered that the influenza A virus exploits a protein called AGO2 to regulate gene activity and weaken the immune system. An existing drug, arsenic trioxide, showed promise in increasing interferon production and reducing viral loads.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2025

Cancer research: Small change with a big impact

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have discovered that different mutations of the tumour suppressor p53 affect pancreatic carcinomas differently. The study found that two variants of p53 selectively control distinct metabolic pathways, providing new insights into cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalJournal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research·DateDec 5, 2024

Breakthrough study reveals how mutant p53 protein converts other proteins into cancer drivers

Researchers have uncovered a critical mechanism by which mutant p53 protein converts other proteins into cancer-promoting agents, driving tumor growth. Heparin, a widely used anticoagulant, can inhibit the formation of these harmful aggregates, providing a potential therapeutic approach.

SourceInstituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem (INBEB)·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2024

NYU Abu Dhabi researchers discover tumor suppressor protein Par-4 triggers unique cell death pathway in cancerous cells

Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have discovered that the tumor suppressor protein Par-4 can cause a unique type of cell death called ferroptosis in human glioblastoma cells, while sparing healthy cells. This new understanding has the potential to inform the development of novel treatments for various hard-to-treat cancers and neurodegener...

SourceNew York University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJul 23, 2024

NUS scientists discover a novel way of activating muscle cells’ natural defenses against cancer using magnetic pulses

A team of researchers from NUS has developed a novel method to stimulate muscle cells using magnetic therapy, which produces and releases proteins with anticancer properties. The study demonstrates that this non-invasive approach can prevent cancer cell growth and invasion, similar to exercise.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalCells·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Application of base editors in organoids opens new doors for cancer research

Researchers used base editors to introduce specific combinations of activating and inactivating mutations into healthy organoids, creating realistic models for various types of cancer. This allows for further investigation into the development and treatment of cancer, with potential applications including testing new drugs.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2023

New insights into liver cancer development

A study published in Cancer Research identifies a novel mechanism by which liver cancer develops, involving the aberrant activation of the Wnt signaling pathway and the gene GREB1. The research reveals that GREB1 is responsible for integrating conflicting cellular states of differentiation and proliferation, leading to tumor promotion.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCancer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2023

Oncotarget | The serine protease matriptase inhibits migration and proliferation in multiple myeloma cells

Researchers found that overexpressing matriptase reduced myeloma cell proliferation and inhibited migration. Matriptase also blocked Src kinase activation, supporting its potential as a tumor suppressor in multiple myeloma. The study provides new insights into the role of matriptase in hematological malignancies.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeObservational study·DateNov 7, 2022

p53 in liver cancer: The ultimate betrayal?

A study published in Cancer Research found that constitutively activated p53 in hepatocytes of chronic liver disease patients creates a microenvironment supportive of tumor formation from hepatic progenitor cells. This novel mechanism challenges the traditional role of p53 as a cancer suppressor.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCancer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2022

Just in the NIK of time

Researchers at Osaka University have made a breakthrough in understanding the molecular mechanisms behind Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), a deadly form of liver cancer. By identifying TRAF3 and NIK as key players, they have uncovered potential therapeutic targets for novel ICC treatment.

SourceOsaka University·JournalHepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2022

Finding a target for tumor suppression

Researchers at Brigham Young University have discovered a potential target for tumor suppression, Programmed Cell Death Protein 5 (PDCD5), which may help prevent cancer cell growth by blocking the production of tubulin. The study provides new insights into how PDCD5 functions and offers a promising direction for future research.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 3, 2014

Keeping growth in check

Researchers found that loss of RPL5 or RPL11 prevents cell cycle arrest but impairs proliferation due to reduced ribosome content and translation capacity. This discovery highlights a new mechanism for controlling cell growth, relying on the essential role of these ribosomal proteins in biogenesis.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateDec 11, 2013

Tumor suppressor pulls double shift as reprogramming watchdog

A study by researchers at the Salk Institute has found that tumor suppressor p53 plays a crucial role in controlling somatic cell reprogramming. The study showed that p53 activation prevents cells from reverting back to a less specialized state, which could have implications for cancer development and pluripotent stem cell technology.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 9, 2009

The flip side of p27

Researchers have discovered that p27 can act as both a CDK-dependent tumor suppressor and a CDK-independent oncogene. This finding has significant implications for understanding cancer growth and developing drugs to target p27 dysfunction.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJul 11, 2007