BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes play a crucial role in repairing damaged DNA. Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 substantially increase the likelihood of breast and ovarian cancer, respectively. This new research illustrates how small breaks in one strand of DNA can expand into a large single-stranded DNA gap that kills drug-resistant breast BRCA mutant cancer cells. The novel vulnerability in mutant BRCA1 and BRCA2 may be a potential target for new therapeutics. 

Cancer and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) share common risk factors, and treatments for cancer have the potential to increase the risk of CVDs. Researchers have elaborated on the importance of recognizing the indicators, patterns, predictive outcomes, and challenges associated with CVD risks in cancer patients and survivors. Proactive management and early detection are essential to improving the overall health outcomes and quality of life for patients with cancer.

Researchers from SRM Institute of Science and Technology, led by Dr. KN Aruljothi, have published a study in ExRNA highlighting the role of exosomal RNA (exRNA) in head and neck cancers (HNCs). Exosomal RNAs, including miRNA, mRNA, and lncRNA, are secreted by tumor cells and play a pivotal role in cancer progression by modulating key signaling pathways such as NF-κB, EGFR, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR. These exRNAs influence the tumor microenvironment, promote metastasis, and contribute to immune evasion and therapy resistance. The study underscores the potential of exRNA-based liquid biopsy through saliva and blood samples for early diagnosis and treatment monitoring, presenting a promising avenue for precision oncology in HNC management.

Cancer treatment has advanced significantly, focusing on targeted approaches that destroy tumor cells while sparing healthy tissue. Researchers at JAIST have developed magnetic nanoparticles that can be directed to tumors using a magnet and then heated with a laser to destroy cancer cells. In mouse models, this targeted technique successfully eliminated tumors entirely. This innovative method provides a more precise and less toxic alternative to traditional treatments, paving the way for more effective cancer therapies.

Cancer cells have an insatiable appetite for energy as they multiply more rapidly than normal cells. Greedy cancer cells hijack various cellular functions to find and exploit energy and other resources, including a group of enzymes that help normal cells maintain a balance of energy.

These enzymes, called creatine kinases (CK), allow cells to transport energy produced at the mitochondria to where it is needed throughout the cell. Studies of breast cancer cells have highlighted the importance of a type of CK called ubiquitous mitochondrial creatine kinase (uMtCK).

Pancreatic cancer that spreads to the liver is especially difficult to treat because the liver naturally suppresses immune responses, creating an environment where cancer can evade detection and thrive.

UCLA researchers have developed a nanoparticle that carries a combination treatment with an mRNA vaccine and a small immune-boosting molecule to the liver, reprogramming it to attack pancreatic cancer.

Lab studies showed the therapy shrank tumors that spread to the liver, prevented new ones and activated immune memory cells that could help stop pancreatic cancer from coming back.