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MSK Research Highlights, January 17, 2025

A recent study from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center sheds new light on the heterogeneity of GBM tumors and the role of cancer stem cells in tumor growth. The research identifies six distinct transcriptional states, each with its own unique gene signature, and provides guidance for future research to develop targeted therapies.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Route of entry for Semliki Forest virus into the brain revealed

Researchers at Uppsala University found that Semliki Forest virus penetrates the central nervous system by entering the cerebrospinal fluid and binding to VLDLR before penetrating deeper into the brain. This finding could be used to develop the virus as an agent for treating brain cancer.

“Heartbreaking” impact of Covid on treatment of children with brain tumors

The study found that COVID-19-related disruptions led to frequent delays in investigations or treatments for children with brain tumors. Caregivers reported feeling traumatized by their experiences, including lack of access to healthcare facilities and social situations, which made it harder to evaluate their concerns.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Brain tumors hijack circadian clock to grow

Glioblastoma brain tumors synchronize their growth with the daily release of steroid hormones like cortisol, according to new research. Blocking these signals slows tumor growth and disease progression in animal models.

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

We could soon use AI to detect brain tumors

Researchers have trained AI models to distinguish brain tumors from healthy tissue using convolutional neural networks and transfer learning. The models achieved an average accuracy of 85.99% at detecting brain cancer, with the ability to generate images showing specific areas in its tumor-positive or negative classification.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Early treatment for nerve tumors prevents serious problems, study finds

Researchers found that non-invasive stereotactic radiosurgery significantly improves tumor control and reduces symptoms such as tinnitus, cranial nerve deterioration, and vestibular dysfunction. Early treatment can prevent tumors from growing over time and spare patients from irreversible problems.

Foam cells in brain tumours

Glioblastoma is a deadly form of brain cancer affecting 500 Swedes annually. Researchers have identified 'foam cells' that aid tumour growth by releasing signal substances and promoting blood vessel formation.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

New insights into glioblastoma treatment for older adults patients

A recent clinical trial analysis found that patients with truly unmethylated MGMT promoter do not benefit from temozolomide treatment, challenging current treatment protocols. This study aims to transform the treatment landscape for older adults glioblastoma patients by identifying biomarkers for more personalized therapies.

Zika virus as a treatment for brain cancer: A systematic review

Researchers evaluated the efficacy and safety of using Zika virus for treating CNS tumors, finding that it reduces cell viability, inhibits growth, and decreases Bcl2 expression, potentially enhancing chemotherapy and radiotherapy effects. This ultimately led to significant tumor remission and improved long-term survival through an enh...

Study explores novel therapeutic treatment for glioblastoma

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that combining pimozide with CB-839 can effectively suppress glioblastoma growth by blocking lipid production and starvation of tumor cells. This innovative combination may also hold promise for treating other cancers relying on glutamine and lipids.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

ChatGPT shows human-level assessment of brain tumor MRI reports

A study by Osaka Metropolitan University found that ChatGPT's diagnostic performance for brain tumors was comparable to that of neuroradiologists, with an accuracy rate of 73%. The model's performance varied depending on the type of clinical report written, with higher accuracy when using reports from neuroradiologist writers.

Researchers integrate fast OCT system into neurosurgical microscope

A new microscope-integrated OCT system has been developed to identify tumor margins during brain surgery, providing high-resolution images of subsurface anatomy. The system has shown promising results in clinical studies, with the potential to improve outcomes for neurosurgery procedures.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Programming cells to target brain tumors

Researchers at UNIGE and HUG have developed CAR-T cells capable of targeting malignant gliomas while sparing healthy tissue. The treatment uses a specific marker on tumour cells and appears to be effective in controlling tumour growth without signs of toxicity.

Antidepressant shows promise for treating brain tumors

Researchers at ETH Zurich have found an antidepressant, vortioxetine, effective against glioblastomas, a particularly aggressive brain tumor with no cure. The drug's ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and trigger a signalling cascade makes it promising for treating this deadly tumour.

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Surprising finding in glioblastomas:

Scientists found islands of highly potent immune cells in the bone marrow close to glioblastoma tumors, which play a central role in defending against cancer. This discovery may lead to innovative therapies and could improve patients' chances of survival.

Serotonin uptake regulates ependymoma tumor growth

Researchers found that hyperactivated neurons drive cancer proliferation and that serotonin uptake by ependymoma cells promotes tumor growth. Inhibiting this process blocked tumor growth, opening doors for drug discovery.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

New technique could help treat aggressive brain tumors

Researchers have developed a new technique called burst sine wave electroporation (B-SWE) that can disrupt the blood-brain barrier around brain tumors without causing significant damage to healthy tissue. This method shows promise for treating aggressive brain cancers like glioblastoma, which currently have limited treatment options.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Study points at novel approach to treat Group 3 medulloblastoma

Researchers identified a population of stem-like cells that initiates and maintains Group 3 medulloblastoma (Gr3-MB) in the developing brain. Eliminating these cells led to tumor shrinkage in preclinical models, suggesting a novel approach for treating children with Gr3-MB.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Drugs for HIV and AIDS trialed as brain tumor treatment for first time

Scientists are conducting a clinical trial to explore the use of anti-retroviral medications Ritonavir and Lopinavir as a potential treatment for brain tumors in patients with Neurofibromatosis 2. The study aims to determine if these drugs can help reduce tumor growth and survival in NF2 patients.

More effective cancer treatment with iontronic pump

Researchers at Linköping University and the Medical University of Graz have developed a new cancer treatment using an iontronic pump to deliver continuous, low-dose chemotherapy directly to brain tumors. This approach significantly reduces tumor growth by bypassing the blood-brain barrier, a common obstacle to effective treatment.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Rapid test of cerebrospinal fluid decreases time to diagnosis for brain tumors

Researchers developed a rapid genotyping test for patients with central nervous system lesions, detecting key mutations associated with brain cancers in samples taken during a lumbar puncture. The test eliminated the need for surgical brain biopsies in seven cases and significantly accelerated time to treatment, from an average of 12 d...

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

The use of new technologies expands understanding of brain tumors in children

A new study using next-generation molecular sequencing and DNA methylation profile analysis identified a rare type of pediatric brain tumor with specific genetic alterations. The tumors were found to be clinically aggressive but some responded well to chemotherapy, highlighting the need for personalized treatment strategies.