What’s New in the World of Cancer Research?

Stool tests might provide a useful way to help doctors spot early pancreatic cancer, say researchers

Researchers have been trialling the concept of analysing stool samples to spot pancreatic cancer early, in a study with 136 volunteers. The findings, described in the BMJ journal Gut, suggest detectable changes involving gut bugs could provide a warning sign that a tumour is present.

Treating cancer with light-sensitive nanoscale biomaterials: Combining nanotechnology with laser light creates powerful effect on cancer cells

Treating cancer and other diseases with laser light is not currently considered routine, but new approaches using nanoparticles show some promise in improving existing techniques. Researchers review the status of the field and by combining photothermal therapy or photodynamic therapy with nanomaterials, they have been able to apply these types of phototherapies while also delivering drugs to sites in the body that are otherwise inaccessible. It is also possible to combine PTT and PDT into a single treatment, creating an even more powerful treatment method. (Source: American Institute of Physics)
 

Lower, more frequent doses of nanomedicines may enhance cancer treatment

The strategy may make tumours more vulnerable to anti-cancer therapies

Both nanomedicines and metronomic scheduling — when medications are given at lower, more frequent doses — can correct abnormalities surrounding tumours that help protect cancer cells and foster their growth and spread. Combining nanomedicines and metronomic scheduling may help improve cancer treatment strategies. (Source: Massachusetts General Hospital, USA)
 

Stealth nanomedicines combat cancer and cut toxic effects of chemo

New research has identified that the frequently used chemotherapy drug (5-FU or Fluorouracil) is 100 per cent more effective at targeting tumours (rather than surrounding tissues) when administered using an optimized liposomal formulation. (Source: University of South Australia)