Researchers have long focused on the STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes) pathway as a way to harness the immune system’s natural defenses against cancer. This pathway, which plays a key role in helping the body defend against potential pathogens, can be leveraged to trigger an innate immune response that targets cancer cells. However, a study published July 3 in the journal Nature Chemical Biology, led by biochemist Lingyin Li (Bluesky: @lingyinli.bsky.social), is spearheading a new school of thought.

A Chinese research team has developed a new surgical procedure named FENCY ligation, which can be combined with preoperative embolization to safely remove giant plexiform neurofibromas. This technique greatly reduces bleeding and improves surgical outcomes, even in complex areas. Most of the 11 patients reported excellent recovery and high satisfaction, with minimal complications.

 A team of researchers from the University of Notre Dame, Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital, and Boston University has developed a technique for measuring a brain tumor’s mechanical force and a new model to estimate how much brain tissue a patient has lost. 

Researchers at San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-TIGET, Milan) have developed a new strategy to enhance CAR T cell therapy against glioblastoma by using gene-engineered macrophages to deliver immune-boosting cytokines directly into the tumor. This targeted approach reactivates CAR-T cells, stimulates the broader immune response, and improves tumor control in preclinical models.

Some women don't know when to start receiving regular mammograms despite their importance in early breast cancer detection, APPC survey finds.

A new study led by researchers at Lund University in Sweden, reveals that melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, can in some cases be driven by mitochondrial processes, which can be effectively targeted using existing drugs. In preclinical laboratory experiments with melanoma cell cultures, researchers successfully eliminated cancer cells by using antibiotics and inhibitors of mitochondrial energy production, highlighting a potential therapeutic breakthrough.

– Despite these challenging times, two universities remain steadfast in the commitment to curing one of the world’s most deadly diseases. Recognizing the power of education and research in preventing, treating, and advancing life-saving treatments, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Georgetown University have established a joint initiative on cancer to amplify innovation, discovery, and action to end the disease.