Fusion Genes
Articles tagged with Fusion Genes
Challenges and prospects in utilizing technologies for gene fusion analysis in cancer diagnostics
The study explores gene fusion technologies, including FISH, PCR, IHC, ECL, and NGS, to detect biomarkers in tumor diagnosis. AI-driven detection and comprehensive genome-wide analysis using NGS and bioinformatic tools enhance diagnostic accuracy.
New screening tool could improve the survival rate of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma from 20% to 90%
A new machine-learning model using serum fusion-gene levels predicts HCC with an accuracy of 83-91%, significantly improving upon current biomarkers like serum alpha-fetal protein. This breakthrough tool may help identify patients at risk and monitor cancer recurrence, leading to improved survival rates.
How fusion proteins hijack gene regulators to spur childhood cancer
Researchers at the University of Buffalo have discovered that fusion proteins hijack gene regulatory complexes through their unfolded domains, causing cancer. The study found that these disordered domains interact with high specificity and form liquid-like droplets, enabling cancerous genes to be activated.
NTRK gene fusion in papillary thyroid cancer: A clinicogenomic biobank and record linkage study from Finland
Researchers identified NTRK gene fusion in 1.5% of Finnish papillary thyroid cancer patients, with notable co-occurring genetic alterations and favorable treatment outcomes. The study highlights the potential for biobank samples linked to electronic health records to describe patient characteristics and outcomes.
New assay identifies clinically relevant gene fusions in pediatric tumors more accurately and efficiently
Researchers developed a novel assay that integrates data from four fusion callers to identify disease-related gene fusions in pediatric tumors with high accuracy and efficiency. The new bioinformatics platform detected fusions, prioritized them, and custom curated downstream processes for consensus fusion calling.
Aggressive luminal breast cancer: Are cis-spliced fusion proteins pathological?
Researchers have identified a neoplastic fusion transcript RAD51AP1-DYRK4 in luminal B breast cancer, associated with higher ki67 expression and aggressive clinical characteristics. MEK inhibitor trametinib may be effective in blocking the MEK-ERK signaling driven by this fusion.
Research raises hopes for new treatment of fusion-driven cancer
Researchers from Aarhus University have developed a gene therapy that can stop cell division in a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) by targeting the drivers of the disease. The study suggests that this technology can become a platform for treating other fusion-driven cancers, such as lung cancers and sarcomas.
St. Jude tool targets cancer-causing fusions’ weak spot
Researchers at St Jude Children's Research Hospital have developed a tool to comprehensively characterize oncogenic fusions in pediatric cancer cells. The tool has the potential to cure certain tumors by targeting these fusion genes with CRISPR-Cas9, selectively killing cancer cells while leaving healthy ones intact.
New machine learning model improves prediction of prostate cancer recurrence
A new machine learning model combines fusion gene profiling, serum PSA level, and Gleason score to predict prostate cancer recurrence with improved accuracy. The model outperformed clinical data alone and provided valuable insights into the mechanism of disease progression.
Promising new drug target for a rare liver cancer
Researchers have discovered that targeting a specific mutation in fibrolamellar tumors can reduce tumor growth in mice, offering a promising approach to treating this nearly incurable cancer. The findings highlight the potential for novel therapies against an intractable disease.
RET inhibitor selpercatinib demonstrates durable responses in tumor-agnostic population
In a Phase I/II trial, selpercatinib demonstrated a 44% objective response rate across multiple tumor types, including pancreatic and colorectal cancers. The study found responses regardless of cancer type or prior treatment history, confirming RET fusions as a tissue-agnostic target.
Pralsetinib achieves tissue-agnostic benefits for patients with RET gene fusions
The study found an overall response rate of 57% and disease control rate of 83% in 23 patients with diverse cancer types. These results validate RET as a tissue-agnostic target with sensitivity to RET inhibition.
Researchers shine light on a rare form of kidney cancer
A new study found that translocation renal cell carcinoma (tRCC) is characterized by genetic alterations except for the gene fusion from which it gets its name. The research suggests that tRCCs may be responsive to treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors, providing a potential roadmap for clinical action.
National panel chaired by PPPL expert urges fusion pilot plant by 2035-2040
A National Academies report calls for a US fusion pilot plant to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon emission electrical system. The pilot plant should be operational by 2035-2040, with innovations in fusion confinement concepts and technology development needed.
The CNIO reprograms CRISPR system in mice to eliminate tumor cells without affecting healthy cells
Researchers at CNIO successfully applied CRISPR technology to eliminate fusion genes causing tumors, leading to the death of cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unaffected. This breakthrough approach could lead to the development of targeted cancer therapies.
Scientists develop forecasting technique that could help advance quest for fusion energy
Researchers developed a technique to forecast how tokamaks might respond to magnetic errors, which can disrupt fusion reactions. This forecasts could help engineers design fusion facilities that efficiently create a virtually inexhaustible supply of safe and clean fusion energy.
New public-private projects to speed fusion energy development come to PPPL
Two new collaborations aim to capture and control fusion energy, which powers the sun and stars. The partnerships bring together experts from PPPL and private companies Tokamak Energy and General Fusion to advance efforts in modeling and stability.
A proven method for stabilizing efforts to bring fusion power to Earth
Scientists at DOE's Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory develop a control scheme to optimize magnetic field levels, suppressing edge localized modes (ELMs) and maximizing fusion power. The technique uses real-time control to regulate plasma stability, aiming for stable ELM suppression and high fusion performance.
CICERO software enables detection of cancer-causing gene fusions
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have developed a software system called CICERO that enables better detection of gene fusions in cancers. The system distinguishes fusion events by comparing the cells' RNA sequence with the human genome, identifying potential cancer-causing fusions.
Artificial intelligence helps prevent disruptions in fusion devices
An international team of scientists used AI to predict disruptions in fusion reactions, avoiding energy release and damage to facilities. The algorithm was trained on thousands of experiments and successfully forecasted disruptions in real-time.
Characterizing RNA alterations in cancer
The study analyzed data from over 1000 donors of more than 25 cancer types, studying whole genomes and tumour transcriptome data. Researchers identified diverse mechanisms of cancer genome alterations, including gene fusions, which can be used for disease diagnosis.
Study: Biomarker in urine may offer noninvasive detection of prostate cancer
A study has identified a novel biomarker, KLK4-KLKP1 fusion gene, detectable in urine samples of patients with prostate cancer. This non-invasive method may replace traditional PSA tests, reducing unnecessary biopsies and improving diagnosis accuracy.
Tiny granules can help bring clean and abundant fusion power to Earth
Researchers found that injecting tiny beryllium pellets into the plasma could trigger small eruptions called ELMs, stabilizing fusion reactions. This technique could potentially reduce the risk of large ELMs and damage to the ITER facility.
Artificial intelligence speeds efforts to develop clean, virtually limitless fusion energy
A team of scientists has applied deep learning to forecast sudden disruptions in fusion reactions, enabling more accurate predictions and potentially unlocking clean and virtually limitless fusion energy. The Fusion Recurrent Neural Network (FRNN) code also opens pathways for controlling disruptions.
Physicists improve understanding of heat and particle flow in the edge of a fusion device
Researchers have discovered a hill-like bump of electric charge at the X-point in tokamaks, which prevents plasma particles from traveling straight between upstream and downstream areas. This finding could lead to more accurate predictions about exhaust and make future large-scale facilities less vulnerable to internal damage.
A more accurate method to diagnose cancer subtypes
Researchers at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research have developed a new diagnostic method that screens cancer samples for 'fusion genes', which are linked to one in five cancers. The test identifies 20% more fusion genes than current methods, potentially leading to personalized treatments.
Making 'sense' of the 'cart before the horse' in mammalian cells
Scientists have discovered that an antisense RNA can induce the formation of fusion genes in mammalian cells, which may lead to new cancer therapies and biomarkers. The 'cart before the horse' hypothesis is challenged by this finding, revealing a non-coding RNA's role in gene recombination.
Sensitive new assay finds abnormalities in tumor cells that other techniques may miss
A new RNA-Seq assay detects gene fusions in solid tumor cells with high accuracy, identifying 93% of fusions missed by other techniques. The assay also discovers 18 novel fusions, including 11 previously unknown combinations, which may have clinical significance.
Gene fusion shifts cell activity into high gear, causing some cancer
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center discovered that a gene fusion can cause cancer by increasing mitochondrial activity and fueling cell growth. Drugs targeting this pathway can prevent tumor growth in human cancer cells and mice with brain cancer.
Frequent sun exposure may cue gene fusion found in skin cancer
Researchers found a specific fusion gene in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma lesions exposed to the sun, which may play a role in cancers caused by ultraviolet irradiation. The discovery could lead to improved diagnostics and therapies for this type of skin cancer.
Common genetic fusion event may be associated with low-risk prostate cancer
Researchers detected TMPRSS2-ERG fusions in 45% of analyzed prostate cancers, with those retaining interstitial genes showing lower risk of progression. The study suggests that identifying the formation mechanism of gene fusions could help stratify patients into more well-defined risk groups.
Discovery of a new fusion gene class may affect the development of cancer
Researchers at Lund University have identified a new class of fusion genes that primarily affect microRNA activity, which may help in developing cancer treatment and diagnostics. The study re-analyses existing data and highlights the importance of studying non-coding gene components.
New approach to genetic testing leads to dramatic response in MET fusion lung cancer
Researchers developed a new assay to detect gene fusions in dozens of genes simultaneously, identifying a rare MET fusion in a late-stage lung cancer patient. The patient showed an almost complete response to targeted therapy crizotinib after over 8 months of treatment.
Study highlights new link between gene fusion and bladder and brain cancer
A study by University of Warwick finds a previously overlooked section of gene fusion FGFR3-TACC3 worsens cancer cells. Preventing cell signalling from this fusion may not be effective in cancer treatment research.
Ohio State Cancer researchers validate a clinical test for fusion genes
A new assay called OSU-SpARKFuse detects genetic changes in cancer cells and identifies novel gene fusions. The assay was validated using control specimens and then used to assess 95 tissue samples from patients with advanced cancer.
US-China collaboration makes excellent start in optimizing lithium to control plasma
The US-China collaboration has made excellent progress in using lithium to control ultra-hot plasma in fusion reactions. The use of lithium powder, granules, and liquid form has shown promising results in eliminating instabilities and improving energy confinement.
Novel gene editing approach to cancer treatment shows promise in mice
Researchers used CRISPR genome editing technology to target unique DNA sequences formed by fusion genes, cutting out mutated DNA and replacing it with a gene that leads to cancer cell death. This approach improved survival rates in mouse models of aggressive liver and prostate cancers.
Extinguishing a fusion fire in a flash of light
Researchers found that injecting large quantities of neon gas can rapidly cool and extinguish magnetically confined fusion plasmas hotter than the sun's center. This process converts plasma heat into an intense flash of light, uniformly illuminating the interior wall to avoid damage.
Breakthrough in Z-pinch implosion stability opens new path to fusion
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have demonstrated improved control over and understanding of implosions in a Z-pinch, enabling the creation of thermonuclear fusion-relevant densities and temperatures. The breakthrough was enabled by unforeseen physics that led to unprecedented implosion stability due to helical modes rather...
General atomics breakthrough enables greater control of fusion energy
Researchers at General Atomics have developed a new tool for controlling fusion plasmas, allowing for separate and continuous specification of power and torque. This breakthrough has the potential to improve magnetic fusion in machines worldwide.
Fused genes found in esophageal cancer cells offer new clues on disease mechanisms
Researchers from Case Western Reserve University identified structurally abnormal genes in esophageal adenocarcinoma, which could serve as potential indicators of aggressive esophageal adenocarcinoma. The study found gene fusions that were highly associated with poorer patient survival and may aid tumor development.
Hundred million degree fluid key to fusion: ANU media release
Scientists have solved a key puzzle in fusion energy by understanding the behavior of plasma waves. By applying fluid flow theory, they explained an unstable wave mode that had been observed in fusion experiments, making it possible to harness clean and endless energy.
Skin cancer-causing fusion gene identified
A novel fusion gene NUP160-SLC43A3 has been identified in skin cancer cells, leading to rapid tumor progression and a significantly shorter duration between symptoms onset and hospital visit. This discovery has potential implications for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for angiosarcoma.
New genomic analysis identifies recurrent fusion genes in gastric cancers
Researchers have identified five recurrent fusion genes in gastric cancers, which lead to increased susceptibility to damage and diminished healing. The study also found that these fusion genes promote invasive tendencies in cells, aiding in cancer progression.
Poppies provide missing piece of morphine biosynthesis puzzle
Researchers have identified a fusion gene in poppy plants that facilitates important steps in the plant's morphine-producing pathway. The findings complete the metabolic pathway for morphine, enabling the production of the economically important drug without the need for cultivating poppy fields.
Rare, deadly lymphoma demystified
Researchers identify JAK/STAT3 cell signaling pathway as driver of ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), a particularly aggressive form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Compounds targeting this pathway show promise in inhibiting disease progression, offering new hope for effective treatments.
Fusion researchers make breakthrough on ELMs mitigation
Researchers from General Atomics and Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory made a major breakthrough in controlling heat bursts in fusion reactors. They found that tiny magnetic fields can create two distinct responses, allowing more heat to leak out and preventing intense heat bursts.
New gene sequencing technology like a high-powered microscope
A new gene sequencing technology, CaptureSeq, enables accurate measurement of specific genes' activity at minute levels, improving blood cancer diagnosis. The technology has practical applications in diagnosing diseases guided by gene expression.
Researchers discover new genetic anomalies in lung cancer
Researchers discovered new gene fusions in lung cancers with worse outcomes than patients with fewer fusions. The study identified several new genetic anomalies, including those found in smokers, which could be targets for developing new treatments.
Study shows tale of 2 prognoses in pediatric brain tumor, pilocytic astrocytoma
Researchers have identified two distinct pathways that influence the aggressiveness of pediatric brain tumors, suggesting different treatment approaches. The study found that point mutations in the BRAF gene lead to a more aggressive form of the disease than K:B fusion.
NIF experiments show initial gain in fusion fuel
Scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have achieved an order of magnitude improvement in yield performance over past experiments on the National Ignition Facility. The boot-strapping process has been demonstrated to increase the rate of fusion reactions, producing more alpha particles and further heating the fuel.
Lifting fusion power onto an (optimized) pedestal
Scientists have developed a new technique to optimize the transport barrier in fusion plasmas, which is crucial for increasing future fusion power performance. By understanding the pedestal's behavior and its limitations, researchers can predict and improve its pressure and width, leading to enhanced fusion power production.
Plasma experiment demonstrates admirable self-control
A joint experiment between Chinese and American scientists successfully demonstrated a tokamak fusion reactor's ability to maintain high fusion performance for extended periods. The experiment exploited plasma self-generations of electrical current, reducing the need for external coils and increasing cost-effectiveness.
Mouse model improves understanding of clear cell sarcoma
Researchers developed a new mouse model to study clear cell sarcoma (CCS), a rare and aggressive soft tissue cancer. The model can potentially speed the development of drugs targeting genes required for CCS formation.
Researchers identify genetic mutation for rare cancer
Researchers at Michigan Medicine have discovered a genetic anomaly that could improve diagnosis and treatment of rare solitary fibrous tumors. The NAB2-STAT6 gene fusion was found in every tumor sample analyzed, providing a potential target for therapies.
Fusion gene contributes to glioblastoma progression
Researchers identified a fusion between FGFR3 and TACC3 genes in human glioblastoma samples, which promoted tumor growth and progression in a mouse model. The fusion protein escaped regulation by miR-99a, indicating its potential as a prognostic marker and drug target for glioblastoma treatment.
Gene sequencing project identifies abnormal gene that launches rare childhood leukemia
A recent study has identified a fusion gene responsible for almost 30% of a rare subtype of childhood leukemia with an extremely poor prognosis. The finding offers new insights into the disease and paves the way for more effective therapeutic interventions.
Not all lung cancer patients who could benefit from crizotinib are identified by FDA-approved test
A recent University of Colorado Cancer Center case study found a patient with ALK+ lung cancer who tested negative for the EML4-ALK fusion gene using the FDA-approved FISH assay, yet showed dramatic response to crizotinib. Next-gen sequencing revealed genetic shards that may have avoided detection by the test.
Study pinpoints a genetic cause of most lethal brain tumor -- may lead to new treatment
A study at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found that a specific gene fusion is responsible for the majority of glioblastomas, leading to dramatic slowing of tumor growth in mice. The discovery opens up new possibilities for personalized treatments using FGFR kinase inhibitors.