For decades, scientists have known that bacteria can exchange genetic material in a process called horizontal gene transfer. Research by Professor Mittra’s group suggests that horizontal transfer also happens in mammals via fragments of DNA known as cell-free chromatin particles that are released from dying cells. Once inside new host cells, the chromatin particles acquire novel functions and act as autonomous “satellite” genomes. This discovery may redefine mammalian genomics and evolution.

Organ donation following medical assistance in dying (MAiD), also known as euthanasia, is a relatively new practice both in North America and worldwide. A first comparison of liver transplantation using organs donated after MAiD in Canada has shown good patient survival with outcomes similar to standard donation after circulatory death. The findings from the new study in the Journal of Hepatology, published by Elsevier, highlight that this practice can help to meet the increasing demand for organs by expanding the donor pool, thereby saving more lives.

A recent review article published in Molecular Biomedicine highlights that the clinical development of targeted therapies against the WNT signaling pathway, a key target in cancer treatment, is ushering in new breakthroughs. The review begins with the fundamental mechanisms of Wnt signaling and systematically elaborates on various innovative strategies targeting the WNT pathway, critically assessing their clinical prospects. It emphasizes that by overcoming specificity challenges, developing precise biomarkers, and exploring synergistic effects with therapies such as immunotherapy, targeting the WNT pathway holds the potential to pioneer new paradigms for future precision cancer medicine.

A comprehensive review, published in Molecular Biomedicine, synthesizes recent advancements in single-cell multi-omics technologies pertinent to the study of biliary tract cancers (BTCs). The article underscores the capacity of these potent tools to unveil the substantial heterogeneity inherent in tumors and their microenvironment, thereby paving novel avenues for personalized treatment strategies combating this aggressive cancer.

Adelaide researchers have identified a promising new biomarker and treatment target for ovarian cancer that could markedly improve the outlook for women diagnosed with this aggressive disease.

Numerous studies have demonstrated a strong link between the human microbiome and the progression of various diseases, including obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and malignant tumors. A 2018 study attributed 13% of global cancer incidence to microorganisms. Intra-tumoral microorganisms (those residing within tumors) have been reported in a variety of major cancers and are closely associated with tumor type, initiation, progression, immune regulation, and therapeutic outcome.

In a comprehensive review published in the journal Immunity & Inflammation, a research team led by Professor Tao Dong at the University of Oxford systematically dissects the central role of T cells in anti-tumor immunity and sheds light on the next-generation cancer immunotherapies. The article, titled "Leveraging T cells for cancer immunotherapy," summarizes current understanding and highlights promising strategies to overcome the challenges that limit the efficacy of current treatments.

A recent randomized controlled pilot study suggests that Baduanjin, a traditional Chinese mind-body exercise, may help alleviate menopausal symptoms and fatigue in breast cancer patients undergoing aromatase inhibitor therapy. The study, published in Translational Exercise Biomedicine (ISSN: 2942-6812), an official partner journal of International Federation of Sports Medicine (FIMS).