A new University of Chicago study explores how prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can trigger inflammation in skin cells through degradation of a key protein called YTHDF2. This protein acts as a gatekeeper in preventing normal skin cells from becoming cancerous. The finding opens the door to develop potential new approaches to skin cancer prevention and treatment.

Researchers present an analytical technique that provides new insight into old DNA samples

Colorectal cancer used to be associated with old age, but diagnoses have become increasingly common in adults aged 50 or younger particularly in high-income countries like the United States. The reason for this trend is unclear, but a new study led by Mass General Brigham researchers, as part of the Cancer Grand Challenges PROSPECT team, suggests an important link to ultra-processed foods that merits closer investigation. By analyzing the diets and endoscopy results from almost 30,000 women, the team found that study participants who reported consuming the highest levels of ultra-processed foods had a 45% higher risk of developing adenomas, which can be precursors of early-onset colorectal cancer, compared to participants who reported consuming the lowest levels. Their results are published in JAMA Oncology. 

About The Study: In this study, higher ultraprocessed food intake was associated with increased risk of early-onset colorectal conventional adenomas. These data highlight the important role of ultraprocessed foods in early-onset colorectal tumorigenesis and support improving dietary quality as a strategy to mitigate the increasing burden of early-onset colorectal cancer. 

This roundup of 9 studies highlights pivotal findings—from smarter cancer treatments and AI-powered care to new clues for health equity and immune recovery. 

The aberrant overexpression of Lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1/KDM1A) is a common feature across a wide spectrum of human cancers, and its elevated levels correlate with poor survival of cancer patients, making it an attractive target for pharmacological intervention. However, the clinical trials of LSD1 small-molecule inhibitors are facing few serious challenges, including toxicity at therapeutic doses. Here, the authors reported the discovery of LD-110 as a potent PROTAC degrader via the ubiquitin-proteasome system, leading to significantly growth suppression of cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo.