LOS ANGELES — City of Hope^® Research Spotlight offers a glimpse at groundbreaking scientific and clinical discoveries advancing lifesaving cures for patients with cancer, diabetes and other chronic, life-threatening diseases. Each spotlight features research-related news, such as recognitions, collaborations and the latest research defining the future of medical treatment.

 

Influencers are promoting “overwhelmingly” misleading information about medical tests on Instagram and TikTok, according to a global University of Sydney-led study published today in JAMA Network Open. 

Fathers who take at least two weeks of leave after their child’s birth are significantly more likely to report longer breastfeeding duration, according to a recent survey led by scientists at Northwestern University and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in China. Early detection and diagnosis of CRC are essential for improving survival rates. However, socioeconomic factors such as regional disparities, economic conditions, and varying levels of awareness impact the uptake of screening programs. Recently, rapid advancements in non-invasive tests, including high-quality fecal immunochemical tests and the emergence of stool and blood biomarkers for CRC, have facilitated improvements in early detection and diagnosis. Additionally, image-enhanced endoscopy, a group of advanced imaging technologies, has been developed to assist in the early identification of colorectal lesions, including narrow band imaging and linked-color imaging. The emergence of artificial intelligence also offers promising opportunities to improve early diagnosis and treatment of CRC. This review mainly introduces screening technologies and the current status of CRC screening in China, provides an overview of CRC early detection and diagnosis, and discusses the limitations and future prospects.

Insilico Medicine ("Insilico"), a clinical stage generative artificial intelligence (AI)-driven biotechnology company, today announced the publication of a novel series of orally available covalent CDK12/13 dual inhibitors, as a potential option against refractory and treatment-resistant cancers. Published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry (IF=7.2), the study showcases the discovery of compound 12b, a potent, selective, and safe therapy targeting CDK12/13, empowered by Insilico’s proprietary generative AI platforms including PandaOmics and Chemistry42.

Researchers used an innovative approach and analyzed data from a large sample involving residents of four state capitals in different regions of Brazil; study contributes to preventive strategies for this type of tumor.