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Freezing out breast cancer

Researchers successfully froze breast cancer in patients who refused surgery, with no localized treatment recurrences seen for up to five years and no significant complications noted. The study used image-guided, multiprobe cryotherapy, which provided safe and effective breast conservation with minimal discomfort.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateMar 16, 2010

Carnegie Mellon researchers receive grant

Researchers Yoed Rabin and Kenji Shimada are developing an interactive simulator for cryosurgical procedures, combined with a computerized tutor to evaluate quality. This project aims to enhance surgical training by practicing virtual cryosurgical procedures, motivating surgeons to learn and improve their skills.

Forecasting cancer recurrence

A team of scientists developed a computer model that predicts cancer recurrence in an individual based on how their tumor changes size in response to the first rounds of radiation therapy. The study found that tumors with higher resistance to radiotherapy had a lower chance of reappearing years later.

Why some prostate cancer returns

A recent study found that men with low oxygen levels in their prostate tumor are more likely to experience a return of prostate cancer after treatment. Researchers say this finding could lead to personalized treatment approaches, including combination therapies and non-invasive methods for detecting oxygen levels in tumors.

A longer lasting tumor blocker

A study by Japanese researchers found that a molecule called M-CSF can be used to block the formation of new blood vessels in tumors, suppressing growth even after treatment is stopped. This approach differs from existing VEGF-based treatments, which have been shown to have limited long-term effects.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 28, 2009

Bioengineered proteins: Trial confirms new way to tackle cancer

Researchers have engineered a new version of the tumour-inhibiting protein VHL that can target hypoxic areas in tumours, reducing HIF levels and causing tumours to regress. This breakthrough has implications for treating various types of cancer, particularly those resistant to conventional therapies.

SourceWiley·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateMar 25, 2009

Protein shines light on cancer response

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified a small protein that specifically recognizes tumors responding to chemotherapy, allowing for rapid visualization of cancer response in mice. This breakthrough could enable more efficient treatment customization and accelerate the development of new cancer drugs.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 24, 2008

Cancer-resistant mouse discovered

A team of researchers has discovered a tumor-suppressor gene called Par-4 that kills cancer cells but not normal cells. The mice born with this gene live longer and have no toxic side effects, making it a potentially therapeutic application for treating cancer without harming patients.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 27, 2007

UV light improving chances of fighting cancer

Scientists at Newcastle University have developed a technology using UV light to activate antibodies specifically targeting tumour cells. The cloaked antibodies can be used alone or in combination with existing antibodies, minimizing side effects and maximizing destruction of tumours.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalChemMedChem·DateOct 30, 2007

JCI table of contents: Sept. 20, 2007

Researchers have developed a new non-invasive prenatal testing method that analyzes mother's blood to detect fetal mRNAs, which could be used for prenatal diagnosis of genetic diseases. In another study, mice exposed to particulate matter were found to have accelerated blood clotting and thrombosis, highlighting the need to target IL-6...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 20, 2007

JCI table of contents: June 7, 2007

Researchers at Institut Gustave Roussy found that a combination of radiation and angiogenesis inhibitors can overcome HIF-1–dependent tumor radioresistance in mice. This breakthrough suggests a new approach to treating cancer by shifting tumor resistance towards apoptosis, according to the study published online on June 7.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 7, 2007