Initial results from a clinical trial reveal the potential of an anti-osteoporosis drug for its possible application in breast cancer: although it does not reduce the proliferation of cancer cells, it does stimulate the anti-tumour immune response.

Immunotherapy is the strategy that is driving cancer treatment forward, but the response is relatively low in luminal type B breast cancer. This latest finding opens an avenue of clinical interest.

This advance, led by researchers and oncologists at ICO, IBIDELL and the CNIO, is a direct result of the synergy between basic science, clinical research and patient involvement.

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have discovered how a parasite that causes malaria when transmitted through a mosquito bite can hide from the body’s immune system, sometimes for years. It turns out that the parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, can shut down a key set of genes, rendering itself “immunologically invisible.”

Scientists highlight the evidence of increasing public health impacts from exposure to synthetic chemicals in food. Published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Medicine, the article discusses the types and sources of synthetic food contaminants focusing on food contact chemicals from food packaging and food processing, and their increased presence in ultra-processed foods. Considering a wide range of scientific studies and regulatory initiatives, the article provides an overarching look at the issue, outlines future research needs, and shares existing options and novel approaches to aid the sustainable transition to a safer food system. 

Researchers have developed a novel wearable biosensor for continuous cortisol monitoring, leveraging computational chemistry and advanced electronics. The system integrates molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) optimized via density functional theory for high selectivity, paired with organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) for high sensitivity, achieving an ultra-low detection limit (0.36 nmol/L). Unlike traditional sensors, the device allows in-situ regeneration of MIPs using electric fields, enabling eight reuse cycles. A microfluidic sweat-sampling module and iontophoresis-driven sweat induction ensure noninvasive, real-time tracking, validated by circadian rhythm studies matching ELISA results. Encased in 3D-printed flexible packaging, the wireless system maintains stability under bending, paving the way for closed-loop therapeutics and precision health applications.

Researchers from the Stem Cells and Cancer team at the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute and the Hospital del Mar Research Institute have developed a method to confidently produce blood cell precursors from stem cells in mice, by activating a set of seven key genes in the laboratory. The team, led by Dr. Anna Bigas, takes a step forward towards the production of precursor cells able to restore the bone marrow of blood cancer patients, in a successful example of regenerative medicine.