Tag Archive for: cancer treatment

January 2024 Digital Health Roundup

Science fiction comes to life in the name of treating cancer. Scientists from MIT have created inhalable sensors combined with a urine test to detect early-stage lung cancer. Research from an ultrafast laser technology could help improve cancer treatments. Nano drones have been created to make a more targeted and precise cancer treatment.

MIT Scientists Create Inhalable Sensors to Detect Early Lung Cancer

This technique of inhaling nanoparticle sensors followed by a urine test may offer the potential for faster and early detection of lung cancer reports Interesting Engineering. This technology will be helpful to lower income countries that have little access to CT scanners. Lung cancer is caused by pollution and smoking, this makes cancer numbers higher in lower income countries. Access to this technology can have a big impact on lung cancer detection and earlier treatment, increasing better outcomes for patients. These nanosensors are given via inhaler or nebulizer. The sensors identify cancer related proteins in the lungs and use a barcoded DNA that detaches when it contacts the cancerous proteins. Eventually the barcoded DNA accumulates in the urine where it can be detected with a paper test strip. The results of this technology are available within 20 minutes. In mice trials, the test detected early-stage lung cancer. It is now moving into human trials. Click here for the full story.

Ultrafast Laser Technology Could Offer Improved Cancer Treatment

For the first time, we showed that, under certain conditions, a laser beam tightly focused in ambient air can accelerate electrons reaching energies in the MeV (megaelectronvolt) range, the same order of magnitude as some irradiators used in radiation therapy for cancer reports Phys Org. The end of a focused point of a laser can generate plasma which can be generated to high energy like radiation. FLASH radiotherapy uses a similar method to treat cancerous tumors resistant to radiation therapy. It gives high doses of radiation in a short time to protect surrounding healthy tissues. With this discovery, more research can be done to make better radiation treatments for cancer. This new knowledge highlights the need for safer handling of the laser beams for those who operate them; radiation is more of a hazard than previously known. Click here for the full story.

“Nanodrones” Enable Targeted Cancer Treatment

A groundbreaking study led by Professor Sebyung Kang and Professor Sung Ho Park in the Department of Biological Sciences that UNIST has unveiled a remarkable breakthrough in cancer treatment. The research team has successfully developed unprecedented “NK-cell engaging nano drones” capable of selectively targeting and eliminating cancer cells, offering a potential solution for intractable types of cancers reports Technology Networks. NK (natural killer) cells are the body’s immune response against cancer. The NK cell-engaging nano drones display ligands or molecules that bind to human NK cells. This technology offers development of treatments for intractable cancers, using the NK cell delivery nano drones. Click here for the full story.

January 2024 Notable News

This month doctors and scientists are applying knowledge learned from cancer patients and research to improve cancer treatment. Doctors must juggle many things when a patient with a chronic illness is diagnosed with cancer. Scientists are learning how forever chemicals encourage the spread of cancer. A new peptide has been designed to inhibit a protein that can stop the growth of 75% of cancerous tumors.

How Do Chronic Diseases Affect Cancer Treatment?

A cancer diagnosis is challenging enough. But having a chronic disease, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or kidney problems, can affect how doctors treat your cancer reports Everyday Health. Cancer diagnosis can happen to older adults who already have many coexisting conditions that require medications. Drug interactions can occur with cancer medicines and chronic condition medications, causing side effects. Some chronic health problems like diabetes increase the risk of infection, making it harder to recover from some cancer surgeries. Some surgeries to remove cancers can make chronic health problems worse, like lung cancer removal affecting chronic lung disease patients. Chronic health problems can eliminate some cancer patients from qualifying for clinical trials. Physicians have a scoring system tool to use that helps choose appropriate treatments for cancer patients. It is the ECOG, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group scoring system. Doctors can reduce chemotherapy medications doses to avoid complications that can arise from combining chemotherapy with medications for chronic illness. Some cancer patients must prioritize other health issues and treat the cancer when it is safe to do so. It is a careful balance that involves good communication between the patient and the doctor. Click here for the full story.

“Forever Chemicals” Encourage Cancer to Spread Around the Body

In a new study by researchers at the Yale school of public health, two “forever chemicals” spurred cancer cells in the lab to migrate to new positions, an indication that the chemicals could contribute to cancer metastasis in living organisms reports earth.com. These industrial chemicals don’t break down and have toxic effects on the body. The chemicals (PFAS) are found in drinking water, indoor dust, cleaning products, and even interior coatings. Levels of PFAS are showing up in the blood of newborn babies, in sea life, and in bird eggs. Firefighters are having an increased rate of cancer from exposure to PFAS through their jobs. Scientists study the effects of PFAS chemicals using experiments with metabolomics, a tool that studies small molecules. These chemicals are found to cause effects at a cellular level that show metastatic potential. Click here for the full story.

Scientists Succeed in Stopping Cancer Engine Fueling 75% of Tumors

Scientists have developed a peptide that holds promise in controlling the activity of the MYC protein, a key contributor to exacerbating 75% of human cancer cases reports Interesting Engineering. This peptide inhibits the function of a protein MYC; in cancer the MYC’s activity is not regulated properly. MYC helps promote cancer growth when not regulated. When it is regulated, MYC transcribes RNA and DNA. It has a globular shape, making it difficult for drugs to bind to it. This new research has found a peptide that can bind to MYC. Scientists are using nanoparticles to deliver the peptide into cells, connecting to the MYC protein once inside the cells. This knowledge opens possibilities to design new cancer treatments by limiting the proteins activity in cancer cells. Click here for the full story. 

June 2023 Digital Health Round Up

With the help of technology, this month cancer patients and scientists are making strides in the fight against cancer. A new artificial intelligence chatbot is available to ease cancer patient’s anxiety by answering questions 24 hours a day. Researchers have discovered that turning off a particular gene in T cells can fight cancer. Scientists have found that injecting particular bacteria directly into a cancerous tumor can fight cancer.

New AI ‘Cancer Chatbot’ Provides Patients and Families with 24/7 Support: ‘Empathetic Approach’

Cancer patients looking for quick answers or support between their appointments can now turn to “Dave”, an artificial intelligence chatbot trained to discuss all things related to oncology reports Fox News. The patient’s questions are mostly about potential treatments and the side effects that can be expected. The chatbot provides answers anytime, day or night, to reduce the patient’s anxiety. The AI is designed to respond with empathy and uses seven years of patient and doctor interactions. These interactions are drawn from a social and professional cancer app. To date, over 10,000 cancer patients have used this chatbot. The chatbot also informs patients of the latest technological advances. “Dave” can provide all kinds of information, however if more specific information is needed, patients are directed to call their doctor. Click here for more information.

Knocking Out Gene Triggers Powerful Anti-Cancer Response

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have made what they believe is a groundbreaking discovery in the field of cancer research. Their study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, reveals the importance of a specific gene, SRC-3, in regulating the immune response against cancer reports Science Blog. With the help of gene editing technology, scientists eliminated the SRC-3 gene in T cells. Eliminating this gene caused a lifelong anti-cancer response in animal testing for breast and prostate cancer. Tumors were eliminated without the side effects typically caused by cancer treatments such as chemotherapy. Researchers are doing further testing to use for possible treatment of cancer in humans. In this study, they found that not only were the tumors gone after the injection of the altered T cells, but the tumors did not reoccur over time. Scientists are very hopeful that this research can be used to make better cancer treatments in the future. Click here for more information.

Intratumoral Bacteria as an Injectable Ant-Cancer Treatment

Scientists at the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology in Ishikawa, Japan have developed an anti-cancer treatment that consists of bacteria that are naturally found inside some tumors reports Medgadget. With the help of technology, scientists can separate the bacteria and inject it into the tumor. The bacteria inside the tumor then causes an immune

response to destroy the tumor without any genetic engineering or advanced methods of drug delivery, making it less costly. This method causes less adverse side effects outside the area of the tumor, unlike other treatments. Tumors by nature, have a lower oxygen environment, which makes an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. These intratumoral bacteria get injected into the core of the tumor to cause an immune response. Mouse models using this method show promising results. Click here for more information.

May 2023 Notable News

May is an exciting month for advances in cancer treatment. Scientists have discovered a new protein in the lungs that may provide information to help treat secondary cancer tumors. Doctors have found a way to open the blood/brain barrier to treat brain cancers more effectively. Researchers have found a more cost effective and less invasive way to treat cancer with immunotherapy. 

Cancer Breakthrough Could Stop Tumors Growing Back Years After Treatment

A breast cancer breakthrough could stop tumors growing back in the lungs years after treatment. An existing leukemia drug could help stop cells “reawakening” -preventing the deadly disease becoming incurable, the study on mice found reports The US Sun. Cancer cells can survive and remain dormant for many years. Scientists have been working to figure out what causes the cancer cells to wake up from that dormant state. They have discovered a protein (PDGF-C) in the lung that increases with age, causing the cancer cells to reawaken.

When cancer spreads to other organs or bones it cannot be cured. Preventing the spread of secondary cancer causes better patient outcomes. Researchers used a leukemia drug, Imatinib, to see how the drug affected tumor growth and how it affected the PDGF-C protein. The findings of this research showed the tumor growth as well as secondary tumor growth were reduced. This new knowledge can help researchers to help prevent secondary cancer development. Click here for more information. 

Major Breakthrough as Cancer Patients Have Chemo for Brain Tumors for First Time 

The “huge advance” in treatment temporarily opened the blood/brain barrier, which previously prevented drugs reaching the organ. Scientists at Northwestern University in Illinois were able to open it in a four-minute procedure, increasing concentrations of the drug in the brain by up to six times reports The US Sun. This new advance can lead to treatment for glioblastoma and other brain diseases.

Normally, the treatment for brain cancer involves brain surgery, but it is difficult to get all the tumor out due to the threadlike elements of the tumor itself. Most chemotherapy will not cross the blood/brain barrier, temozolomide is used to help slow the growth of brain tumors. Surgeons use a small device on the skull to send ultrasound waves to open a blood/brain barrier. During this time, stronger chemotherapy is injected to help treat the cancer. Further trials are being done to see if there is more improvement in patient outcomes. Click here for more information. 

Fast and Cost-Effective New Therapy Harnesses Patients Blood Cells to Fight Tumors 

Adaptive cell therapy (ACT) is a form of immunotherapy that uses the patients’ own immune cells from their tumors. This therapy is currently being used to treat melanoma. Northwestern University scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery: it is now possible to isolate tumor attacking cells from blood non-invasively, rather than from the tumors themselves reports SciTech Daily.

There are tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) circulating in the blood, not just found inside the tumors as once thought by scientists. Scientists have isolated the strongest tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and replicated them. In mice, these tumor infiltrating lymphocytes were injected and killed the cancerous tumor. Scientists are now doing further clinical trials because of the positive results in mice testing. Click here for more information. 

The Role of Nutrition in Supporting People with Cancer During Treatment

Living with cancer is often a challenging experience. You may find you face various hurdles that are physical, psychological, and emotional in nature. Part of the key to navigating these is to have an effective set of tools at your disposal. This isn’t just a practical way of addressing issues, but it can also help you feel more in control of your well-being at a time when you might feel you don’t have much agency.

These tools can take a range of forms. Certainly, the medications and treatments you utilize can impact your health. You might also be seeing a therapist or counselor who can introduce you to strategies to manage the psychological symptoms of your experience. But one of the most important elements that can influence your everyday wellness is your dietary choices.

Boosting Overall Wellness

People’s experiences with cancer can vary. Nevertheless, it’s important to focus on your overall health and wellness so you’re in the best possible position to navigate the challenges of your diagnosis. Nourishing your mind and body plays a key role in this regard.

Certainly, this involves maintaining a balanced diet. Fruits, vegetables, poultry, fish, and nuts can all be important in promoting good health when you are living with cancer. Protein sources such as eggs, seeds, and lentils can contribute to a strong immune system. You should also focus on your hydration by committing to regularly drinking water.

Alongside balancing the good food you put into your body, you should also avoid food and drink that can have negative impacts. In particular, alcohol can have detrimental health effects in both the short and long term. Its effect on your central nervous system can contribute to and exacerbate mood fluctuations, not to mention that chronic alcohol use is a cause of immunodeficiency. It is therefore healthier to cut out or significantly reduce alcohol consumption, at least as you navigate cancer treatment.

Using Substitutions and Supplements

Directly gaining nutrition from food isn’t always practical as a person with cancer. This is especially relevant when treatments can have an impact on your appetite. Not to mention that some drugs — like chemotherapy — may reduce certain protein and vitamin stores in your body. It’s vital to consider how some supplements and dietary substitutions can bridge the gap in your nutritional needs.

It’s important to be mindful when introducing supplements into your diet when you’re being treated for cancer. Take a targeted approach. Speak to your oncology team about what specific vitamins you may be deficient in or those that might have a strengthening or protective impact. You should also be aware that some supplements can be detrimental to the efficacy of treatment. For instance, botanicals like garlic, ginseng, and echinacea can disrupt how your body metabolizes chemotherapy drugs. So, be sure not to make changes without advice from your specialist.

 

One good approach to your nutrition is to find substitutions for difficult-to-digest or generally unhealthy food. For instance, while you may crave sweet foods, processed sugar can be detrimental to cognition, mood, and overall wellness. It is usually best to find substitutions in the form of healthy and naturally sweet food, such as fruits, nuts, and homemade snack bars. This can be a helpful strategy when you’re navigating the difficulties associated with treatment. Not to mention that natural foods may be more palatable when you’re experiencing nausea.

Mitigating Treatment Side-Effects

Navigating the reality of cancer in itself can be challenging. While treatment is a powerful tool in your management and recovery, it can also contribute to the difficulties you experience. The side effects of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and a range of other elements can affect your quality of life. It’s well worth exploring how your nutritional choices can empower you to address these.

Appetite changes and nausea are among the most common side effects of cancer treatment. One helpful approach to this is to consume smoothies as opposed to solid foods. This may be easier on your digestion while helping you get the servings of fruits and vegetables you need.

In addition, some people with cancer find they live with diarrhea and other bowel or bladder issues as a result of treatment. You might find it better to minimize fried, spicy, or fatty foods, particularly in the immediate days after treatment. You could adopt a clear-liquid diet, involving broth, gelatines, and some fruit juices. Bananas and potatoes can also be positive components, which also serve to replace some potassium that diarrhea can deplete.

Conclusion

Nutrition has a vital role to play in empowering you to support your cancer treatment. There are some generally helpful approaches. Maintaining a balanced diet, using substitutions, and choosing food that helps you navigate symptoms are all essential steps.

Nevertheless, it’s also important to recognize just how nuanced a cancer diet can be. Collaborating with medical professionals on building a dietary plan is vital to not only meeting your nutritional needs but also to avoid mistakes that can negatively affect your treatment. Even something as simple as the frustration of not being able to eat your favorite foods is worth discussing with dietary experts. They may be able to direct you to ways you can safely incorporate flavor profiles you enjoy.

There’s no denying that your cancer treatment will be a challenging process. But with some planning, knowledge, and expert guidance, you can find nutritional approaches that bolster your experience.

March 2023 Notable News

March highlights the daily discoveries that are having a big impact on cancer treatment. Scientists have discovered ecDNA, a genetic material outside of chromosomes, that may lead to a new way to treat cancer. A geriatrician has developed an assessment tool to help doctors to choose more individualized cancer treatments. A new urine cancer test makes it easier for everyone to have access to cancer screening, even outside of the doctor’s office. Each day presents new opportunities for fighting the war on cancer.

Breakthrough ecDNA Discovery Could Revolutionize Cancer Research

A multi-disciplinary team of researchers has pinpointed the major role played by extrachromosomal DNA in the evolution of carcinogenic diseases. This kind of “external” oncogenes make cancer drug-resistance, and it could become one of the main targets for new and effective treatments in the future reports Tech Spot. This ecDNA is a piece of genetic material found outside of chromosomes in human cells. Genetic material outside of cells can be a sign of cancer. Researchers have found ecDNA’s role is to cause the cancer to spread rapidly, create tumors that are drug resistant, and can cause a relapse of the cancer. Oncogenes can hide in ecDNA for a period of time before becoming active again. Scientists are now using this knowledge to look at fighting cancer in a different way. Click to read the full story.

A Different Approach to Treating Cancer

Age is by far the biggest risk factor for getting cancer and it is the main factor in determining treatment options. Older patients are not all the same when it comes to activity and general health. There are patients in their 80’s that are healthier than some patients in their 60’s. Geriatrician Wiliam Dale’s team created a multi-dimensional assessment tool that looks at each patient’s physical and functional health reports WINK NEWS. The parameters of this tool look at patient nutrition, sleep, and mental health; focusing on the individual needs of the patient. The results of this new assessment have made for better outcomes for cancer patients. They experienced less chemotherapy toxicity, less nausea, and had better blood counts. The findings also showed that patients with hearing loss were at more risk for complications due to not hearing physician instructions clearly. Click to read the full story.

New Cancer Screening Urine Test has 99 Percent Accuracy Rate

Researchers from the Surface & Nano Materials Division of the Korea Institute of Materials Science recently developed a strip-type urine sensor capable of amplifying the light signal of metabolites in urine to diagnose cancer reports MITech News. The urine test needs no other analysis, making it simple to use outside of the hospital or doctor’s office. Cancer cells release metabolites, using a light scattering technique on the test strip, cancer can be detected using a small amount of urine. This test can detect cancer in various stages with 99% accuracy. It is a less invasive screening test, and the results can be used to get the patient to the doctor for further testing. Early screening for cancer allows for earlier treatment, making better patient outcomes. Click to read the full story.

February 2023 Digital Health Roundup

This month highlights the important contributions that technology has brought to the fight on cancer. Thanks to technology, doctors are armed with new therapies to treat cancer and are assisted by AI in detecting cancer. Histotripsy is a non-invasive, sound wave-based treatment being tested to add to the arsenal of tools to fight cancer. Hyperthermic nanoparticles are being fine-tuned to treat more types of cancerous tumors more effectively. It is an encouraging and exciting time in the field of cancer technology.

From Vaccines to AI: New Weapons in the Fight Against Cancer

Cancer accounted for nearly 10 million deaths-almost one in six of the global total – in 2020, according to the World Health Organization. Recent scientific and medical advances have added several new weapons to our arsenal, including personalized gene therapy, artificial intelligence screening, simple blood tests- and potentially soon vaccines, reports MedicalXpress. Immunotherapy drugs use the body’s own immune system to kill cancer. This therapy has less severe side effects than chemotherapy but currently it is only used on a few types of cancer. CAR-T therapy modifies the patient’s own T cells from their blood or T cells from a healthy donor. In a lab the T cells are modified to target cancer and then injected back into the patient. CAR-T therapy has been effective in treating leukemia. Artificial Intelligence has been found to detect brain and breast cancers more accurately than humans. AI can also identify which patients benefit from shorter courses of cancer treatments; which allows patients to have fewer side effects. Liquid biopsy tests can now detect cancer from a simple blood test. Using mRNA vaccines, the vaccine can be personalized and used to treat cancer. Click to read the full story.

Histotripsy- A New Sound-Based Cancer Treatment Stimulates Immunity

Histotripsy is a technique that uses sound waves to rip tumors apart, without even breaking the skin. The non-invasive waves work in two ways; to break down a shield that protects the tumor cells, and then stimulate an immune response, reports LabRoots. Histotripsy has been shown to kill tumors in rats, even when only a large part of the mass is broken up. It has been shown to prevent recurrence and metastasis in the animals that have been treated with it. The process exposes antigens on the tumor surface, which in turn causes an immune response allowing the body to attack the tumors. Chemotherapy and radiation can then destroy the exposed antigens. This treatment worked in a small human study to remove liver tumors. Further human studies will be done on a larger scale soon. Click to read the full story.

Hyperthermic Nanoparticles for Cancer Treatment

Hyperthermia (excess heat) refers to the use of high temperatures to treat cancer. When used to treat tumors locally, high temperatures can destroy cancer cells and even the blood vessels that supply vital nutrients to these cells, reports LabRoots. Scientists use nanoparticle technology to deliver hyperthermia, but it has its limitations. These nanoparticles are most effective in tumors that are easy to reach by injection. If it is given intravenously in an infusion, there are not enough nanoparticles remaining to effectively treat the tumor. A new approach has been developed with nanoparticles that have higher heat, 122 degrees Fahrenheit, making it more effective. They have also used magnetic fields to help heat the nanoparticles. Scientists have created nanoparticles with special cores and shells that heat up more efficiently. They hope to develop some that can be given IV and reach the tumor at the desired temperature. Click to read the full story.

February 2023 Notable News

February shines a light on the importance of human experience as well as science in the fight against cancer. Patient navigators, people sharing experience and knowledge with cancer patients, have an important impact on their outcome. In studying the process of the cellular genome, scientists have discovered a vulnerability that can help treat cancer. Scientists are also studying cancerous tumors to use the body’s immune system to destroy the cancer. The more discoveries scientists make about how cancer survives; the more cancer treatments are developed to fight it.

Cancer Treatment is a Minefield of Bills, Meds, and Jargon. Patient Navigators Can Help People of Color Find a Path to Better Care

“Patient navigation,” is individualized assistance designed to help patients, often from disadvantaged populations, overcome barriers in the health care system reports Sahan Journal. Patient navigators are used for patients with organ transplants, HIV, infertility issues, as well as cancer. The navigators have training in the medical field and often personal experience with their area of expertise. The job of the patient navigator is to help the patient get access to screening tests, treatments, follow up care, and financial assistance. They can also explain about clinical trials and make sure the patient understands everything involved with their care. Using this specialty to assist patients has been shown to increase survival rates for cancer patients, especially those in marginalized communities. The navigator can help bridge the cultural differences between the patient and the physician. The patient feels less alone and overwhelmed with a navigator to help them through a difficult time. Click to read the full story.

Newly Identified Pathway Could Boost the Power of Cancer Drugs

Damage to cellular genomes is what results in cancer. It is known that radiation and toxic molecules, such as cancer drugs, can damage this cancer-causing DNA. Scientists have discovered that genomes are more vulnerable during the replication phase. A new signaling pathway used by cells to protect their DNA during replication has been uncovered by researchers at Washington School of Medicine reports SciTechDaily. If scientists can block this pathway, it can also inhibit the cancer cells from being protected from the stress of the replicating phase. The finding of this pathway can help cancer drugs become more effective. Researchers found eight protein factors in the genome protection pathway and are developing inhibitors to block those proteins. This is an exciting advance to opening another pathway to treating cancer. Click to read the full story.

Harnessing the Immune System to Fight Cancer

Antibodies are proteins in the blood created to recognize specific molecules, called antigens, that are unique to a pathogen or other threat to the body. Part of Oni’s research focuses on understanding how antibodies may be used to disarm cancer cells reports MedicalXpress. Immune cells make signals so they are not destroyed by macrophages, which are white blood cells that kill microorganisms. Cancer cells make these signals to evade macrophages as well. Scientists are studying the structure of the tumor, particularly the proteins on the tumor surface, to understand why cancer isn’t destroyed by the immune system. One such surface protein is glycosyltransferase, found on the surface of pancreatic cancer tumors. If this protein is removed from the surface of the tumor, the tumor is destroyed. Scientists can target proteins on the surface of cancerous tumors, increasing immune response to destroy the cancer. With these findings, drugs are being developed to cause macrophages to destroy cancer cells. Click to read the full story.

December 2022 Digital Health Roundup

Scientists and engineers have teamed up to create new treatments to help fight cancer. These treatments sound like something out of a science fiction movie but are bringing us closer to ending cancer. Bacteriabots are nanobots used to destroy tumors and trigger the patient’s own immune response to fight their cancer. CRISPR is using CAR T-cells to create therapies for cancer patients that have run out of treatment options. Nanobubbles in combination with ultrasound waves are being used to kill cancer cells with positive results in early testing. As science and technology advance, it opens new options for cancer treatment.

The Army of ‘Bacteriabots’ That Could Combat Cancer Tumors

In this case, the bacteriabots colonized 3D tumor spheroids. They delivered chemotherapeutic molecules, demonstrating an innovative on-demand drug delivery method for cancer treatment reports InterestingEngineering.com . Biobots are time limited and programmed to self-destruct without leaving anything harmful behind. They are targeted for a particular task such as going to places of high acidity as in tumor tissue. Using bacteriabots helps to limit the unwanted side effects of treatment on healthy tissue, unlike the current treatments of chemotherapy and radiation. The use of bacteriabots is a non-invasive way to get into a closed environment like tissue and blood vessels. These biobots can also be used to trigger the patient’s own immune system. There are many things biobots could eventually be used for; treating other diseases and even repairing a torn ACL without surgery. Click to read the full story.

CRISPR Gene-Editing May Boost Cancer Immunotherapy, New Study Finds

CRISPR is developing cancer treatments using CAR T-cell therapies. These are called “living drugs” because they’re living cells of the immune system, taken from cancer patients, and then reinfused after being genetically engineered in the lab to attack the patient’s tumors reports weku.org . Using a drug that is living can make it last a few weeks or even a few years. This therapy offers a treatment for people that have run out of other options like stem cell therapy. Scientists are trying to make an off the shelf version of this therapy that would be available quickly, made in large quantities, and less expensive. They take T cells from a healthy donor and use CRISPR to reprogram the T cells. It reprograms it in several ways; to leave healthy cells alone, to hide from the patient’s own immune system, and to destroy cancer. While studies are showing some positive results from the off the shelf CAR T-cell therapy, it is not as effective as using the patient’s own cells. Click to read the full story.

These Tiny Bubbles are “Warheads” for Killing Cancer

These infinitesimal gas bubbles surround the tumor and then can be exploded via ultrasound, creating “therapeutic warhead,” as they artfully put it in their study, published in the journal Nanoscale freethink.com . High frequency ultrasound can damage tissues surrounding tumors. The use of low frequency ultrasound in combination with the nanobubbles reduces harm to surrounding tissues. The tiny bubbles are injected into the bloodstream which goes into the blood vessels of a tumor and is then leaked into the tissue of the tumor. The low frequency ultrasound makes the bubbles explode and that kills the cancer cells. This is an effective treatment for tumors that are located deep within the body or where there are many tumors. The hope is that this method would replace surgeries to remove cancerous tumors. The trials are currently moving from mouse trials to human trials. Click to read the full story.

December 2022 Notable News

Research is a valuable tool in every aspect of cancer; prevention education, treatment advances, and effectiveness of new treatments. New research has shown that survivors of childhood cancer have a significant increase in risk for cardiovascular issues. Oral chemotherapy is a new modality for cancer treatment and research shows the pros and cons of this treatment. This month, research confirms that there is a direct link between alcohol consumption and increased risk in getting certain cancers. All these studies will help to educate cancer patients, causing better outcomes for people.

Survivors of Childhood Cancer Face a Higher Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

The researchers said the risk of cardiovascular disease was significantly higher in cancer survivors in virtually all categories, including sex, race/ethnicity, income, education, smoking status, and physical activities reports healthline.com . The increased risk of cardiovascular disease for survivors of childhood cancer comes from the use of chemotherapy and radiation to treat the cancer at an early age. The class of chemotherapy commonly used is anthracyclines and it is known to place patients at risk for damaging the heart muscle. Radiation therapy directly to the chest causes damage to the heart muscle and the heart valves. The research did show an increase in risk to children that were treated for cancer in households making under $50,000. To reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease for these patients, they should follow a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, and do not smoke. Oncologists need to refer childhood cancer patients to cardiologists for screening to find cardiovascular disease in its early stages. Catching the disease in its early stages allows for prompt treatment and better outcomes. Click to read the full story.

Oral Chemotherapy: What are the Advantages?

Chemotherapy kills or slows the growth of cancer cells. In some cases, it can eliminate cancer. In others, it prolongs life by slowing down the progression of the disease reports MedicalNewsToday.com . Oral chemotherapy can come in the form of a pill or liquid that can be swallowed or placed under the tongue. This treatment can be given at home which is less expensive and less inconvenient for cancer patients. The dosing of oral chemotherapy is especially important and requires clear instructions from the doctor. The medication requires special handling such as wearing gloves and storing it at a specific temperature. It needs to be kept secure and dry in an airtight container away from food, children, and pets. The side effects of oral chemotherapy are the same as IV chemotherapy; hair loss, fatigue, nausea, and bruising. It is important to log side effects and notify the doctor of vomiting. There are several disadvantages to taking chemotherapy orally. If a patient has an adverse reaction to the medication, they are at home instead of with a medical professional and will take longer to get help. This medication given orally is very dose dependent and patients can make errors at home that affect the treatment outcome. There is also a high out of pocket expense in using oral chemotherapy versus IV, some insurance companies will not cover the cost of oral chemotherapy. Oral chemotherapy is not available to treat all forms of cancer but in some cases, it has been proven to be more effective than IV chemotherapy. Click to read the full story.

Alcohol and Cancer Risk: Most Americans Aren’t Aware

The new study, published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, notes that there are seven cancer types that have been linked to alcohol consumption reports Healthline.com . The types of cancers linked to alcohol consumption are mouth and throat, larynx, esophagus, colon and rectum, liver, and breast cancer. Alcohol consumption is one of the leading modifiable risk factors for people to prevent cancer. Since the pandemic, consumption of alcohol is on the rise. There needs to be interventions made to help educate people on the direct link to cancer such as media ads, warning labels, and doctor’s educating their patients. Older Americans are less aware of the increased risk of cancer form drinking alcohol. There is no safe level of drinking of any kind of alcohol and this needs to be emphasized to help prevent cancer. Click here to read the full story.

October 2022 Digital Health Roundup

Scientists have out done themselves in the arena of innovation for cancer treatments and detection this month. Fibroscan is a tool using ultrasound for oncologists to detect liver changes that could lead to further testing for diagnosing and treating liver cancer. A group of researchers have developed artificial intelligence to help oncologists determine the best drug therapy for each patient and their individual cancer. A small wireless implant is being tested to help battle deadly brain cancer tumors with less side effects than standard treatments for the patient.

Can A Fibroscan Detect Liver Cancer

Fibroscan is a noninvasive imaging test that may help diagnose liver cancer reports Healthline.com. Fibroscan uses ultrasound or sound waves to see the liver. It bounces sound waves off of the liver and can show signs of damage such as scarring and stiffness. Scarring or stiffness can be signs of cancer. Fibroscan shows more detail than a standard ultrasound and it can show changes to the liver over time. This tool has been helpful for finding hepatocellular carcinoma which is the most common type of liver cancer. If the Fibroscan detects certain changes to the liver, a biopsy can be done to detect if cancer is present. The Fibroscan is a quick test lasting about 15 minutes that requires fasting 3 hours before the test. Early detection of liver cancer increases the patient’s chance of survival. Click to read the full story.

It’s Like Molecular Speed Dating: LSU Using Artificial Intelligence In Cancer Treatment

Using algorithms originally designed to map complex social networks, like those utilized by Facebook, researchers generated three-dimensional graphs of molecular datasets that include cancer cell lines, drug compounds and interactions among proteins inside the human body reports TheAdvocate.com. This AI helps oncologists find drug therapies that work best on each patients different cancer. The information this AI provides will help patients get the correct treatment quicker and cut cost by choosing the right treatment the first time. The graphs created are analyzed by the AI. Researchers train the AI by inputing data, then ask it for what medicine would work best for that particular cancer. The AI makes a prediction based on the data and the researchers test the results in a wet lab. The team used six combinations of cancer cell lines with the drugs most toxic to their gene profile. The AI is able to match the cancer cell lines with the best drug much quicker, giving the patient the best treatment option. Click to read the full story.

A Small Wireless Implant Could Help Kill Deadly Brain Tumors

Researchers at Stanford Medicine developed and tested a wireless device in mice that is small enough to be inserted into a mouse’s brain to kill cancerous cells reports InterestingEngineering.com. This implant is activated remotely and heats up nanoparticles that are injected into the cancerous tumor to kill the cancer. The nanopartilces treat only the tumor so it has less side effects than chemotherapy and radiation. The implant uses photothermal treatment which uses light to heat up the nanoparticles. Photothermal treatment used to only be used during surgery when the brain was exposed to a light, but with the implant it can be done remotely. The device generates heat at the precise site of the tumor and is implanted between the skin and the skull. Then gold nanoparticles are injected into the tumor through a tiny hole in the skull. The implant then sends out infrared light that penetrates the brain tissue to activate the nanoparticles, it increases the temperature by up to 5 degrees Celsius. The power of the implant and wavelength of light can be adjusted to treat the cancer. Click to read full story.

September 2022 Notable News

This month, researchers and scientists reveal the results from studies that are valuable tools for the prevention and treatment of cancer. Currently, they are studying the reasons why there has been a dramatic rise in the number of people getting cancer under the age of fifty. The results of this study may promote people to make changes in their lifestyle to prevent cancer. Stress is also a significant risk factor for causing cancer; it is now considered the 6th vital sign for detecting cancer. Researchers have discovered why air pollution causes cancer; the reason is different than what was previously thought. This discovery could offer hope for people diagnosed with lung cancer that are not smokers.

Dramatic Rise in Cancer in People Under 50

A study by researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital reveals that the incidence of early onset cancers-including breast, colon, esophagus, kidney, liver, and pancreas- has dramatically increased around the world, with the rise beginning around 1990 reports news.havard.edu . People born a decade later have a higher risk of developing cancer later in life due to things they were exposed to earlier in life. Some factors that are causing this increased risk are diet, lifestyle choices, weight gain, environmental exposures, and a persons’ microbiome. The best weapons to fight cancer are still screening and early detection. Some other factors that are on the rise are alcohol consumption, sleep deprivation, smoking, obesity, and a diet high in processed foods. There has also been an increase in eight cancers that are related to the digestive system. Many of these factors are easily changed with lifestyle modification. Find more information here.

The Role of Distress in Cancer

For those who do not know, cancer is not a specific disease but a cluster of over 200 diseases typified by dysfunctional cell growth that is rapidly replicated. The challenge is that the body’s immune system often misses detecting the stealth cell growth and then has difficulty eliminating it reports Psychologytoday.com . Stress causes inflammation, the proteins involved in inflammation are what feed cancer. Stress has been found to be the 6th vital sign in finding cancer. People can manage other risk factors for cancer such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and chemical exposures; stress can be managed as well. People need to be encouraged to overcome trauma, treat anxiety and depression, and promote emotional healing. More effort needs to be made to decrease stress to help prevent cancer. Find more information here.

Mystery of Why Air Pollution Causes Cancer is ‘Solved’ in Major Breakthrough Offering Hope for Treatment

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute in London found that rather than damaging cells directly, air pollution instead ‘wakes up’ dormant mutations and causes them to become cancerous reports The-sun.com . This new research explains why non-smokers are getting cancer. This knowledge changed previous ideas that cancer was formed from a healthy cell mutating. Air pollution triggers the damaged dormant cells to turn into cancerous cells. Discovering the mechanism that causes the cancer cells to grow can help scientists develop cancer blocking treatments. The air pollution causes this mechanism to start in the lungs. Smoking is still the leading cause of lung cancer, but air pollution has a significant impact on lung cancer as well. Find more information here.

September 2022 Digital Health Roundup

The diagnosis of pancreatic cancer used to be considered a death sentence, due to its late detection and difficulty in treatment delivery. With the help of science and technology, pancreatic cancer is a now treatable cancer. Scientists have created a glass bubble nanocarrier to help make the treatment of pancreatic cancer more effective. An Artificial Intelligence program has been created to help detect pancreatic cancer in its early stages to help increase survivability for patients diagnosed with this cancer. Scientists have discovered that using photodynamic therapy to treat many cancers, including pancreatic cancer, is more specific in its delivery and less harmful to the patient.

‘Glass Bubble’ Nanocarrier Boosts Effects of Combination Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer

In hopes of turning the tide, UCLA researchers have developed a technology that delivers a combination therapy to pancreatic tumors using nanoscale particles loaded with irinotecan, a chemotherapy drug approved as part of a drug regimen for pancreatic cancer, and 3M-052, an investigative drug that can boost immune activity and help overcome tumors’ resistance reports Phys.org . One of the reasons pancreatic cancers are hard to treat is that the cancer is protected by biological factors that make it resist treatment. The use of the nanoparticle for treatment helps to shrink the cancerous tumors and prevent metastasis. This nanocarrier attracts more cancer killing immune cells to the pancreatic tumors. There is a double layer of lipids surrounding the core of the glass bubble. The bubble is made of silica and has a hollow core filled with the cancer drugs. The fatty tail of the carrier is used for the second drug delivery. This nanocarrier method helps prevent drug leakage and toxicity to surrounding tissues. It can break through the rugged barrier that is around the pancreatic cancer tumors to deliver the treatment. Find more information here.

Pancreatic Cancer: New AI Program Could Help with Early Detection

If caught early, pancreatic cancer is treatable. Experts say that early detection is the best way to improve the chances of survival as the prognosis worsens significantly once the tumor grows beyond 2 centimeters reports healthline.com . There are currently no valid screening tests for this deadly cancer for patients without any symptoms. The standard use of CT scans for detection does not always find the tumors in the difficult to visualize pancreas. The pancreas is close to many other structures and varies in size and shape. In Taiwan, scientists have made a clinically applicable computer aided detection tool that helps to easily find the pancreas. This program is accurately finding pancreatic cancer in its early stages. The use of liquid biopsy in combination with this AI program work together for early detection. Liquid biopsy is a blood test that finds the biomarkers showing there is cancer present. This program offers hope for early detection of pancreatic cancer and increases survivability for patients. Find more information here.

Photodynamic Therapy Offers Promise for Cancer Treatment

Photodynamic therapy –the use of precisely targeted light, usually from a laser, that activates or “turns on” a drug to kill cells- has been used mostly to treat skin cancers, since it is easier to deliver light to the outside of the body. But light does not travel far through the body tissues reports MedicalXpress.com . The goal of this therapy is to get the light as close as possible to red light, which has the longest wavelength, to penetrate tissue using the lowest energy. The use of the lower energy causes less harm to surrounding tissues. Doctors use a two-photon light, in which two particles of light hit at the same time. The cancer killing molecule that is activated only by light can destroy cancer cells that are resistant to chemotherapy. This therapy has been tested on drug resistant pancreatic and breast cancers. Scientists can examine cancers for levels of a certain protein using phototherapy. The light fluoresces differently for various levels. A high level of the protein shows red, and a low level shows yellow. This test shows whether the patient will be responsive or resistant to chemotherapy. If the patient is resistant, doctors can use the photodynamic therapy. This therapy is given via IV infusion in an outpatient setting and fiber optics deliver the light. Find more information here.

August 2022 Notable News

August brings advances in the field of cancer treatment and detection, thanks to the partnership of scientists and physicians. Scientists persevered in their research to find a new molecule to help improve cancer immunotherapy treatment. The well mapped brain of a locust and its sense of smell is aiding scientists with cancer detection. New research warns that a diet high in saturated fats can increase chances of bladder cancer in males.

New Molecule Could Improve Cancer Immunotherapy’s Effectiveness and Accessibility

We have developed a molecule that can inhibit PD-1/PD-L1 binding and remind the immune system that it needs to attack the cancer reports technologynetworks.com . This molecule uses the body’s own immune system to fight the cancer. In the past, immunotherapies have been expensive and challenging to manufacture. Until this new molecule, immunotherapies primarily worked on cancer that did not have solid tumors. With the help of Computer Aid Drug Design (CADD), they were able to find the best structure for the molecule. This new molecule is more cost effective and easier to manufacture. This new immunotherapy treatment is effective on solid tumors, expanding the types of cancer that can be treated. Patients will be able to take immunotherapy orally from home, instead of intravenously which is how it is currently given. Immunotherapy will be more affordable and effective for patients, dramatically improving cancer patient outcomes. Find more information here.

Researchers Hack Locust Brains to Help Diagnose Cancer by Smelling Them

In their quest to find a technology that can “sniff” out cancer, researchers at Michigan State University have revealed that locusts can not only “smell” the difference between cancer cells and healthy cells, but they can also distinguish between different cancer cell lines reports interestingengineering.com. Researchers have already mapped out the locust’s brain, they understand it’s neural circuits and olfactory sensors. Using electrodes over the locust brain, scientists can see responses to gas samples and can create chemical profiles. Cancer cells emit chemicals that differ from healthy cells. Locusts can smell the cancer chemicals. This method can work with any cancer that introduces volatile metabolites into the breath. Plans are in progress to develop a closed system with a portable sensor to use for detection. The earlier the detection of cancer, the higher the chances of patient survivability. Find more information here.

Too Much Saturated Fat Could Increase Bladder Cancer Risk in Men- What Are the Signs?

The research, funded by the World Cancer Research Fund, found that consuming too much saturated fats increased the risk of bladder cancer in men by 37%, while women who ate monounsaturated fatty acids and plant-based oils (such as olive, coconut, and sesame oil) decreased their risk of the disease by 27% reports newschain.com . The quality of the fat eaten effects developing bladder cancer. There is an even higher risk of developing bladder cancer with certain conditions such as type 2 diabetes, repeated bladder infections, repeated kidney stones, and long-term indwelling urinary catheter use. Smoking causes an increased risk of this cancer also. Symptoms of bladder cancer include blood in the urine, dark urine, frequent urination and urgency, pain with urination, and pain in the lower abdomen. A physician uses urine microscopy, cystoscopy with biopsy, CT scan, or MRI for diagnosis. The treatment of bladder cancer involves tumor removal or removal of the bladder. It is often recommended to have treatment with chemotherapy and radiation as well. Find more information here.

July 2022 Digital Health Roundup

This July, healthcare providers partner up with technology to give cancer patients a better outcome. Gamma Knife technology, a knife-free approach, helps to treat brain and neck cancers. Radiologists use artificial intelligence (AI) to help them catch more cancers on mammograms, leading to increased survivability. The United Kingdom is using technology, in the form of drones, to deliver chemotherapy to cancer patients in isolated areas.

Gamma Knife Technology Treats Brain Tumors Without Surgery

Despite the name, there is no cutting or incisions involved in the Gamma Knife method; instead, radiation and computer-guided planning are used to treat abnormalities in the brain reports TheBlade.com. This technique treats metastatic cancer, malignancies, benign tumors, lesions, and malformations in the head and neck area. The use of gamma rays to the affected area is precise and helps to keep the surrounding tissue healthy. The Gamma Knife is a way to get surgery without using a knife. There is no pain, no anesthesia, the only requirement is that the patient must lay still. This technique is a good choice for people who are unable to undergo surgery, underwent prior brain surgery, or have tumors located in hard-to-reach places. Cancer patients that go through this procedure, have follow-up MRIs to check the status of the area treated. Find more information here.

Doctors Using AI Catch Breast Cancer More Often Than Either Does Alone

Radiologists assisted by an AI screen for breast cancer more successfully than they do when they work alone, according to new research. That same AI produces more accurate results in the hands of radiologists than it does when operating solo reports MITtechnologyreview.com. This artificial intelligence (AI) is called Vara and has been fed data from over 360,000 mammograms with the notes and assessments from the radiologists. It is being used in Germany and Mexico. This AI saves lives by analyzing mammograms and categorizes them as normal or abnormal, the not normal ones are flagged for the radiologist to review. There is a shortage of specialists, and this can help the radiologists free up more time to spend with patients. Radiologists alone can miss catching some of the cancer on the mammograms due to working long hours and being tired. Radiologists review everything the AI interprets and together cancer patients are getting better diagnosis and treatment. Find more information here.

UK Tries Cancer Meds by Drone

The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has launched the world’s first trial to deliver chemotherapy via drone – a move that could make receiving cancer treatment cheaper, more convenient and less taxing on patients and the environment reports Freethink.com. Some patients must travel several hours using different modes of transportation to get their chemotherapy. The drone can deliver the medication in a matter of minutes to a hospital or doctor office that is closer to the patient. This delivery method cuts transportation costs to the patient and lowers carbon emissions, impacting the environment. The UK is creating drone corridors to hospitals. Recently, drones have been used to deliver medical supplies in war zones, coronavirus tests to labs, and delivered transplant organs. Find more information here.