Not all lung cancers with the same common genetic driver respond equally to powerful targeted drugs. Researchers have now discovered why: subtle differences in the 3D shape of the mutated protein. By classifying these shapes, they identified a subtype that poorly binds to latest-generation drugs, explaining worse outcomes. The good news? Starting with a drug-chemo combo likely overcomes this resistance, offering a clear path to personalize first-line treatment.

A new treatment platform developed by researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center was able to deliver messenger RNA (mRNA) of the full-length DMD gene into preclinical models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, successfully restoring the production of an important muscle protein, dystrophin, and dramatically improving muscle strength, endurance and function in vivo.

A research team in Japan has developed an efficient and minimally invasive cancer detection device that uses high-performance zinc oxide nanowires to selectively capture extracellular vesicles (EVs) from bodily fluids. Using this device, researchers successfully captured cancer-related EVs from the blood serum of ovarian cancer patients.

Three cancer researchers are being honored by the ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group for their outstanding contributions. Dr. Valsamo Anagnostou from Johns Hopkins University is the Young Investigator of the Year for her pioneering work in lung cancer. Dr. Jordan Berlin of Vanderbilt University receives the Remarkable Mentor in Oncology Award for his dedication to nurturing oncology talent. Dr. Olisaemeka Ogbue of Mayo Clinic is awarded a grant for his innovative research on cancer survivorship.