Eric Kmiec named editor in chief of Gene and Genome Editing

The Human Tumor Atlas Network charts the roadmap for advancing spatial omics

The NCI Human Tumor Atlas Network (HTAN) has published a cluster of papers intended to advance the framework of spatial omics, the science of profiling morphological and molecular features of human cancers in two and three dimensions.

Genetic disposition increases the risk of breast cancer metastasis

For over 50 years, scientists have been on a quest to identify which malignant mutations within the tumor allow rogue cells to break away from the primary tumor and travel through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to metastasize throughout the body. Now, new research suggests an alternative mechanism has been overlooked—elusive mutations driving metastasis may not be developing within the twisted DNA of tumors themselves, but within the patient’s regular, inherited DNA.

December 13, 2024

Vol.50 No.46

Clinical Roundup

Genetic mutations accumulate in smokers with MDS, study shows

Smokers with myelodysplastic syndromes or a precursor condition had elevated levels of genetic mutations linked to the disease, a new study shows. The study also found that heavier smokers accumulated more mutations, and long-term smokers were more likely to show disease progression.

December 13, 2024

Vol.50 No.46

Clinical Roundup

Study identifies that higher West African ancestry may contribute to worse outcomes

A study published in JAMA Network Open underscored the importance of utilizing genetic ancestry beyond self-reported race in prognosticating breast cancer outcomes for Black women and addressing their disproportionately higher mortality rate.

December 13, 2024

Vol.50 No.46

Clinical Roundup

Scientists identify genes that help cancer cells survive in the bloodstream

Scientists at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center have identified 16 genes that breast cancer cells use to survive in the bloodstream after they’ve escaped the low-oxygen regions of a tumor. Each is a potential therapeutic target to stop cancer recurrence, and one—MUC1—is already in clinical trials. The research was published online Sept. 28 in...

November 08, 2024

Vol.50 No.42

Tumors are able to form with no DNA mutations, fly study shows

Tumors are able to form without any DNA mutations, according to a recent proof-of-principle study performed in flies. Epigenetic changes alone—even temporary alterations—induced permanent cancer cell fate.

September 13, 2024

Vol.50 No.34

By Jacquelyn Cobb