Publications by authors named "M Michael Herfs"
Article Synopsis
- Colorectal cancer is a major health concern, ranking as the third leading cause of cancer deaths globally in 2022, and early detection through screening is crucial for improving outcomes.
- Using bioinformatics, researchers identified new DNA methylation biomarkers (COL25A1 and METAP1D) for colorectal cancer by analyzing extensive genetic data, which was then validated through specific testing on samples from patients and healthy individuals.
- The biomarkers showed high specificity (100%) and moderate sensitivity (49%) for detecting colorectal cancer in blood samples, suggesting their potential for noninvasive screening, though further studies are needed to confirm their practical use in clinical settings.
The current targeted therapy for BRAF-mutant lung cancer consists of a dual blockade of RAF/MEK kinases often combining dabrafenib/trametinib (D/T). This regimen extends survival when compared to single-agent treatments, but disease progression is unavoidable. By using whole-genome CRISPR screening and RNA sequencing, we characterize the vulnerabilities of both persister and D/T-resistant cellular models.
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- Transfer RNA (tRNA) dynamics play a significant role in cancer by influencing how messenger RNA (mRNA) translates into proteins, specifically through aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases that can either encourage or inhibit tumor growth.
- Research indicates that valine aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase (VARS) is crucial for the changes in protein translation related to resistance against MAPK therapy in melanoma patients, as there is an increased use of valine in their proteomes.
- Additionally, reducing VARS levels can make MAPK-resistant melanoma cells more sensitive to treatment, as VARS is linked to the translation of key mRNAs that support cell survival via fatty acid oxidation.
Atezolizumab plus modified docetaxel, cisplatin, and fluorouracil as first-line treatment for advanced anal cancer (SCARCE C17-02 PRODIGE 60): a randomised, non-comparative, phase 2 study.
Stefano Kim Francois Ghiringhelli Christelle de la Fouchardière Ludovic Evesque Denis Smith Michael Herfs
Lancet Oncol
April 2024
Article Synopsis
- The study investigates the combination of the modified docetaxel, cisplatin, and fluorouracil (mDCF) regimen with atezolizumab as a first-line treatment for advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the anus, building on mDCF’s established efficacy.
- Conducted across 21 centers in France, the phase 2 study randomly assigned participants to receive either the combination therapy or mDCF alone, focusing on 12-month progression-free survival as the primary endpoint.
- With 97 participants enrolled, the study found a median follow-up of 26.5 months, providing valuable insights into the potential benefits of combining immunotherapy with standard chemotherapy.