This week in biology, groundbreaking research has reshaped our understanding of cancer risk before birth, uncovering how epigenetic states may predetermine a person’s likelihood of developing cancer. Meanwhile, scientists have made progress in decoding the immune system’s ability to distinguish food from harmful invaders, shedding light on food allergies and gut tolerance. Lastly, a new skin cancer treatment using a genetically modified herpes virus has shown remarkable success in reducing basal cell carcinoma, offering hope for patients who want to avoid extensive surgeries. Dive into the details below!
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Cancer Risk Established Before Birth
A new study challenges conventional thinking by revealing that cancer risk may be determined before birth through epigenetic programming. Researchers found that during early development, two distinct epigenetic states emerge, one associated with higher cancer risk and another with lower risk. These states may influence whether a person develops solid tumors (like lung or prostate cancer) or liquid tumors (like leukemia). The study suggests that cancer risk isn’t just due to DNA mutations but may also be deeply rooted in epigenetic changes occurring before birth. This opens a new avenue for research into cancer prevention and early diagnosis.
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New Clues to the Mechanism Behind Food Tolerance and Allergies
The immune system in our gut makes split-second decisions every time we eat, determining whether to tolerate food or launch an immune attack. Scientists have now identified the specific cells that communicate with T cells to trigger food tolerance or allergic reactions. Using cutting-edge technology, researchers discovered that certain gut cells (cDC1s and Rorγt+ APCs) send signals to prevent food allergies. However, parasitic infections can disrupt this balance, increasing allergy risks. These findings lay the foundation for future allergy research and could help develop treatments to prevent food allergies before they begin.
Skin Cancer: New Treatment Option Successfully Tested
A genetically modified herpes virus (TVEC) is showing promising results in shrinking basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer. Researchers found that TVEC not only destroys tumor cells but also activates the immune system to attack the cancer. In a clinical trial, every patient saw a reduction in tumor size, with some experiencing complete tumor disappearance. This breakthrough could simplify surgeries, reduce scarring, and help patients avoid disfiguring procedures. Further studies are underway to confirm its effectiveness in larger populations.
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Thank you for diving into this week’s news with us. We hope you enjoyed uncovering these fascinating updates as much as we did. Be sure to return next week for more exciting discoveries from the world of science. Until then, stay curious and keep exploring!
My name is Ali Emre Cabadak, a dedicated biology enthusiast currently pursuing my studies at Marmara University, where I am majoring in Bioengineering. As a passionate advocate for scientific discovery and innovation, I am the founder of Biologyto. My goal is to bring the wonders of biology closer to everyone and inspire a new generation of thinkers and innovators. Through Biologyto, I aim to write scientific articles that delve into the fascinating world of biology, sharing insights and discoveries that inspire curiosity and innovation.
