Category: 8. Health

  • What Is Tapping Therapy? How Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) Works

    What Is Tapping Therapy? How Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) Works

    It might look a little strange at first — lightly tapping your fingertips along your face, head and upper body while talking about a stressful memory or feeling — but tapping therapy, also called Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), has been shown to be effective for those seeking relief from anxiety, trauma, stress and even physical pain.

    The emerging technique combines elements of exposure therapy and cognitive behavioral approaches with acupressure, stimulating a series of points on the body known as meridians. Although some remain skeptical, some experts say it can calm the nervous system in minutes, and dozens of studies in recent years have put EFT to the test.

    One 2023 meta-analysis in Frontiers in Psychology found that EFT was associated with significant reductions in post-traumatic stress symptoms compared with control groups. Other randomized controlled trials — the research gold standard — have recorded decreases in stress hormones, improved heart rate variability, and, in some cases, remission of PTSD symptoms.

    But not all mental health experts are convinced about the experimental technique. The New York Times recently reported that some researchers see limitations in the current evidence, pointing to small sample sizes, potential conflicts of interest and lingering questions about whether tapping itself is the key — or if the benefits come from other parts of the process, like the focus on a specific memory.

    Yet, clinical psychologist Peta Stapleton, Ph.D., who has published more than a decade of research on EFT, says the emerging science is helping demystify how tapping affects the body.

    “You’re actually doing something biological to yourself,” she tells TODAY.com. Imaging studies suggest that stimulating certain acupressure points can send electrical signals along the body’s primo vascular, or meridian system, reaching brain regions like the amygdala to help regulate stress responses, according to Stapleton.

    And for Dawson Church, Ph.D., a longtime EFT researcher, author and trainer, the evidence isn’t just in the lab. He’s seen veterans with decades-old trauma recall distressing memories “at a ten out of ten” and, after tapping, report their distress as zero — results that held up in follow-ups months or even years later.

    Here’s what experts say about how tapping therapy works, the nine points practitioners use, and what to expect if you try it yourself.

    How Does Tapping Therapy Work?

    EFT blends physical and psychological elements: gently tapping on specific acupressure points while focusing on a distressing thought, memory or feeling. Church describes it as “drawing from acupuncture and borrowing a lot from cognitive therapy and exposure therapy.” Patients are encouraged to vividly recall the problem rather than distract themselves from it, while the tapping sends a competing “calm” signal to the brain.

    “When traumatized people remember a memory, the limbic system becomes highly active,” Church tells TODAY.com. “When you tap, those parts of the brain become totally calm while they’re describing their traumatic events.”

    Stapleton points to emerging research she says helps to explain how tapping might work. In traditional Chinese medicine, acupressure points are part of an energy system called meridians. For years, scientists debated whether these pathways actually existed in a physical sense. But recent studies using tracer dye — a substance visible on imaging scans — have identified threadlike physical channels in the body that align with traditional acupuncture maps by 80–90%, she says.

    “We actually have a much better understanding as to why tapping on a pressure point can end up in the brain, calm your brain waves, drop your cortisol or settle your heart rate,” Stapleton told TODAY.com.

    While placebo effects may play a role, Stapleton notes more than 150 randomized clinical trials — showing comparable results to gold-standard therapies like CBT — and growing institutional acceptance, including in some health departments, schools and veteran programs. She is also currently leading the effort from Bond University to have EFT formally recognized by the American Psychological Association as an evidence-based psychological therapy.

    What Are the Tapping Points?

    In clinical EFT, practitioners typically use nine points, starting with the side of the hand (“karate chop” point) while stating a “setup statement” that names the problem and affirms self-acceptance. The sequence then moves through:

    • Start of the eyebrow
    • Side of the eye
    • Under the eye
    • Under the nose
    • Chin crease
    • Collarbone (about an inch below)
    • Under the arm (about four inches below the armpit)
    • Top of the head

    Church sometimes adds a point at the back of the head or incorporates eye-movement exercises to deepen the effect.

    What Are the Steps to Tapping?

    Here’s how experts say to try a basic EFT sequence:

    1. Identify the Issue

    Pick one problem to focus on. For example: “Even though I feel really angry because of what happened at work…”

    2. Rate the Intensity

    On a scale from 0 (no distress) to 10 (the most you can imagine), how strongly do you feel it?

    3. Say Tour Setup Statement

    This is where you acknowledge the feeling and pair it with a statement of acceptance or safety, such as: “I accept I feel this way” or “…and I’m safe now.”

    4. Tap Through the Points

    Using your fingertips, begin tapping each of the nine points in order (side of hand, eyebrow, side of eye, under eye, under nose, chin crease, collarbone, under arm, top of head) while repeating your statement.

    5. Check In Again

    Re-rate the intensity of your distress. If it has dropped, keep going. If a new feeling comes up, adjust your statement to match.

    6. Repeat As Needed

    Some people feel relief in minutes. For deeper or more complex issues, experts recommend working with a trained practitioner who can guide you through the process.

    Stapleton stresses that while videos and social media tutorials can introduce tapping, “if something’s outside your scope, you should really refer to someone (who) is an expert.” She recommends working with a trained, trauma-informed clinician, such as a psychologist, counselor or certified EFT practitioner, especially for complex issues. Without that guidance, she says, people may stir up distressing emotions without knowing how to process them safely.

    How Long Does It Take for Tapping To Work?

    Both experts say the effects can be rapid — sometimes within minutes. In his demonstrations, Church says he’s seen people’s distress ratings drop several points in less than ten minutes.

    Still, the timeline varies. “It can be very quick, it just depends on the complexity of what’s going on,” Stapleton says. Many clinical trials run six to eight sessions over as many weeks. For single issues, change may happen in one session; for chronic conditions or deep trauma, multiple sessions are usually needed.

    And while EFT is not a cure-all, some research suggests its benefits last. In follow-ups months or years later, many patients still reported low or no distress related to the memories they worked on, according to Church.

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  • Hyperhomocysteinemia: A Predictor of Microvascular Complications in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

    Hyperhomocysteinemia: A Predictor of Microvascular Complications in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus


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  • Booking Health Unveils New Study: Role of Immunotherapy in

    Langenfeld, Germany, Aug. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Booking Health, a global leader in medical treatment coordination, today unveiled a new study titled Role of Immunotherapy in Extending Life Expectancy for Stage 4 Cervical Cancer Patients. The report outlines how cutting-edge immunotherapy is reshaping care for women with advanced cervical cancer, offering new pathways to longer survival and improved quality of life, particularly in cases resistant to standard treatments.

    Booking Health Unveils New Study: Role of Immunotherapy in Extending Life Expectancy for Stage 4 Cervical Cancer Patients

    Cervical Cancer

    Immunotherapy is redefining how doctors treat women diagnosed with stage 4 cervical cancer – offering hope where traditional treatments often fall short. According to global cancer statistics provided by the World Health Organization, cervical cancer is still ranking as the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer among women worldwide, with over 350,000 deaths reported in 2022 alone. Therefore, the need for more effective therapies is urgent.

    Chemotherapy and radiation therapy remain standard for locally advanced and metastatic cervical cancer. However, they often come with harsh side effects and limited long-term benefit – especially in recurrent or PD-L1-positive cases. This is where immunotherapy is beginning to transform the way we treat cervical cancer.

    By training the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells, this innovative approach is extending survival, improving quality of life, and reshaping the future of gynecologic oncology, according to the American Cancer Society. Leading the way in connecting patients with advanced treatment abroad is Booking Health, a global medical coordination platform that offers access to advanced cervical cancer treatment in the best European clinics.

    Why Is Stage 4 Cervical Cancer So Hard to Treat?

    Stage 4 cervical cancer is difficult to treat because it involves metastatic disease, where cancer has spread beyond the pelvis to distant organs, making it less responsive to traditional therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation. In many cases, the disease becomes persistent or recurrent, with fewer effective treatment options available, as reported by the National Cancer Institute.

    Types of Advanced Cervical Cancer

    Understanding the different stages helps clarify why some cases are more complex than others:

    Term Definition Treatment Challenge
    Locally advanced cervical cancer Cancer has spread beyond the cervix to nearby tissues (e.g., vagina, parametria) but not to distant organs Often treated with chemoradiation, but recurrence risk remains
    Recurrent cervical cancer Cancer returns after a period of remission May resist previously used therapies and require new approaches
    Metastatic cervical cancer Cancer spreads to distant organs like lungs, liver, or bones Hard to target; systemic therapies often have limited success

    Most Common Cervical Cancer Types

      • Squamous cell carcinoma – accounts for 80-90% of cases; originates in the ectocervix
      • Adenocarcinoma – about 10-20% of cases; arises from glandular cells in the endocervix
      • Adenosquamous carcinoma – a rarer subtype with mixed features

    As reported by Cancer Research UK, each type may behave differently in terms of spread, immune response, and treatment sensitivity.

    Limitations of Traditional Treatments

    Standard treatments for advanced cervical cancer include:

      • Chemotherapy: Often platinum-based; effectiveness diminishes over time;
      • Radiation therapy: Can control local disease but may not impact distant metastases;
      • Systemic therapies: Cause significant side effects, with limited survival benefit in persistent cervical cancer.

    Moreover, the American Cancer Society reports that patients with persistent or metastatic disease often experience poor outcomes, with 5-year survival rates below 20% in stage 4 cases.

    As such, gynecologic oncology experts have increasingly turned to immunotherapy to improve response rates and extend survival.

    What Is Immunotherapy and How Does It Work for Cervical Cancer?

    Immunotherapy for cervical cancer stimulates the body’s own immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells by targeting specific immune pathways. This approach is especially useful for patients with PD-L1–positive, recurrent, or metastatic cervical cancer who may not respond well to conventional treatments.

    Approach Description Relevance to Cervical Cancer
    Immune checkpoint inhibitors Block proteins (PD-1, PD-L1) that prevent immune cells from attacking cancer Reactivates exhausted T cells to fight cervical cancer cells
    Monoclonal antibodies Lab-made antibodies designed to target specific tumor markers Some bind PD-L1 or deliver cytotoxic agents directly to tumor cells
    Cancer vaccines Stimulate immune response to HPV or tumor-associated antigens Promote lasting T cell activation and memory
    Adoptive T cell therapy Infuse engineered T cells that can attack tumor cells Under investigation for recurrent cervical cancer

    The PD-1/PD-L1 Pathway

      • PD-1 is a receptor on T cells that regulates immune response
      • PD-L1 is often overexpressed on cervical cancer cells
      • When PD-L1 binds to PD-1, it “switches off” the immune attack
      • Checkpoint inhibitors block this interaction – reactivating T cells to destroy cancer cells

    Why It Matters

      • Many cervical tumors exhibit high PD-L1 expression, making them ideal candidates for immunotherapy.
      • Successful treatment leads to greater T cell infiltration into tumors, enhancing immune surveillance.
      • Patients often experience improved immune response and more durable control of the disease than with chemotherapy alone.

    This therapeutic shift reflects a broader move toward personalized medicine in gynecologic oncology, targeting tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and immune checkpoints rather than relying solely on cytotoxic drugs.

    Findings from the Latest Clinical Trials

    Recent phase III clinical trials have shown that combining immunotherapy with standard chemotherapy – or using it as a second-line option – can significantly extend survival and delay disease progression in patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer.

    These studies demonstrate that there has occurred a major shift in how advanced cervical cancer is treated, providing hope to patients who previously had limited options after conventional therapies failed.

    Highlights from the Trials

      • Patients receiving immunotherapy lived significantly longer than those on chemotherapy alone.
      • Survival benefit was observed regardless of PD-L1 status, especially in recurrent cases after platinum-based treatment.
      • Delays in disease progression gave patients more time with better quality of life.
      • Immune checkpoint inhibitors helped reactivate the immune system’s ability to target and destroy cervical cancer cells.
    Clinical Trial Treatment Type Median Overall Survival (OS) Disease Control Outcome Notes
    Phase III Study Immunotherapy + Chemo Up to 28.6 months vs 16.5 months Longer survival in all groups Strongest benefit in PD-L1+ patients
    Randomized Phase III Trial Immunotherapy (2nd-line) 11.7 months vs 8.5 months Benefit seen in all PD-L1 levels Works even after chemo failure

    * Both studies confirmed survival advantages without significantly higher severe side effects compared to chemotherapy alone.

    What This Means for Patients

    For women with recurrent, persistent, or metastatic cervical cancer, these results signal a new standard of care. Immunotherapy is not only more targeted than traditional therapies but also better tolerated, offering:

      • A longer window of disease control (median progression-free survival extended);
      • Improved quality of life with fewer systemic side effects;
      • Hope for those who did not respond to chemotherapy or radiation.

    This also opens the door for future therapies involving antibody drug conjugates, personalized immune profiling, and combination treatments that utilize both the immune system and conventional medicine. Today, cervical cancer cohorts worldwide are benefiting from a more individualized, immune-driven approach that redefines what is possible after recurrence or metastasis.

    Who Benefits Most from Immunotherapy in Cervical Cancer?

    Immunotherapy is most effective for patients with PD-L1-positive, recurrent, or metastatic cervical cancer, particularly when standard treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy have failed, as previously mentioned. These patients often have limited options, and immunotherapy provides a targeted approach that can activate the immune system to attack tumor cells more effectively.

    Common Eligibility Criteria for Immunotherapy

    Patients who may benefit from immunotherapy typically meet one or more of the following criteria:

      • PD-L1 expression ≥1% (as determined by tumor biopsy);
      • Recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer following standard treatment;
      • Persistent squamous cell carcinoma that does not respond to initial therapies;
      • Evidence of T cell infiltration or active immune cell presence within the tumor;
      • No contraindications for immune checkpoint blockade (e.g., autoimmune diseases).
    Histology Type Prevalence Response to Immunotherapy
    Squamous Cell Carcinoma ~80-90% Better overall immune response; more PD-L1 expression; strong T cell infiltration
    Adenocarcinoma ~10-20% Slightly lower PD-L1 expression; emerging data still promising
    Adenosquamous/Mixed <5% Limited clinical data; under investigation

    While both subtypes may benefit, squamous cell carcinoma tends to respond more favorably due to its immunogenicity and higher prevalence of immune markers like PD-L1.

    Why This Is Important

    Understanding which patients are most likely to respond helps oncologists personalize therapy, avoid unnecessary toxicity, and improve overall outcomes in metastatic cervical cancer patients. As clinical trials continue to evolve, biomarkers like PD-L1, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and even genomic profiling are playing a larger role in guiding treatment selection.

    What Are the Current Limitations and Side Effects of Immunotherapy?

    While immunotherapy is an innovative option in cervical cancer treatment, it is not without limitations. Not all patients experience a positive immune response, and treatment can lead to side effects caused by overstimulation of the immune system.

    Main Limitations of Immunotherapy for Cervical Cancer

      • Variable response rates: Only patients with specific tumor profiles (e.g., PD-L1-positive tumors or high T cell infiltration) tend to respond.
      • Delayed response: Unlike chemotherapy, benefits may take weeks or months to appear.
      • Immune hyperactivation: Some patients may develop autoimmune-like reactions when the immune system attacks healthy tissue.
      • High costs: Immunotherapy is expensive, and coverage varies widely by country and provider.
      • Limited access: Not all regions offer advanced immune-based therapies or diagnostic testing.
    Side Effect Type Description Frequency
    Colitis Inflammation of the colon causing diarrhea Moderate
    Thyroiditis/Hypothyroidism Immune attack on the thyroid Common
    Dermatitis or skin rash Immune-related skin inflammation Common
    Fatigue and joint pain General inflammatory response Mild to moderate
    Pneumonitis Lung inflammation (rare but serious) Rare

    Cleveland Clinic highlights that these side effects are often immune-related and differ from those of chemotherapy, which typically causes nausea, hair loss, and bone marrow suppression. Most immune-related reactions are manageable with corticosteroids or immunosuppressive agents when diagnosed early.

    Importance of Tumor Profiling and Biomarker Testing

    Before initiating immunotherapy, tumor profiling is crucial. Tests that assess PD-L1 expression, tumor mutational burden, and immune cell markers help determine whether a patient is a good candidate. This ensures that patients treated are those most likely to benefit from therapy while minimizing unnecessary risks.

    Why Are More Patients Going Abroad for Cervical Cancer Immunotherapy?

    Many cervical cancer patients choose to go abroad for immunotherapy because of faster access, broader treatment options, and advanced clinical expertise – especially in countries known for innovation in gynecologic oncology. In many parts of the world, patients face long wait times, outdated systemic therapies, or limited access to next-generation immune system-based treatments.

    This is especially critical for women with advanced or recurrent cervical cancer, where timely intervention can directly affect survival and quality of life. In contrast, specialized cancer centers in countries like Germany offer accelerated treatment pathways, advanced diagnostics, and access to experimental options not yet widely available elsewhere.

    Primary Reasons Patients Travel Abroad for Treatment

      • Limited access at home: In some countries, immune checkpoint inhibitors and personalized immunotherapy are not yet standard care – or are cost-prohibitive without insurance support.
      • Delays in diagnosis or therapy: Long waitlists for oncology consultations or biopsy testing can result in treatment delays that worsen outcomes.

    Patients who choose to treat cervical cancer abroad often report improved outcomes, better coordination, and more comprehensive care – especially when guided by experienced facilitators like Booking Health.

    From Research to Results: How Immunotherapy Extends Life Expectancy

    Recent clinical advances highlight the growing role of immunotherapy in improving life expectancy for patients with stage 4 cervical cancer. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and other immune-based treatments are showing encouraging results, particularly for recurrent, metastatic, and PD‑L1‑positive cervical cancers, where traditional chemotherapy offers limited benefit. By stimulating the body’s own immune system to recognize and attack tumor cells, these therapies have been linked to longer survival and improved progression-free outcomes in international studies.

    Access to such innovative care remains uneven, prompting patients to seek specialized oncology centers abroad. Through coordination platforms such as Booking Health, individuals are able to connect with leading hospitals in Germany and other countries that offer advanced cervical cancer immunotherapy programs. These multidisciplinary approaches combine personalized treatment planning, modern diagnostics, and targeted immune modulation to address late‑stage disease. As immunotherapy research continues to expand, it represents a significant shift in the management of advanced cervical cancer, giving more women a realistic chance at extended survival and an improved quality of life.

    Key Takeaways: Immunotherapy’s Impact on Advanced Cervical Cancer

      • Immunotherapy offers hope for women with stage 4 cervical cancer, especially when other treatments have failed.
      • It works by strengthening the immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells more effectively.
      • Most effective in patients with PD-L1-positive, recurrent, metastatic, or invasive cervical cancer.
      • Recent phase III clinical trials show longer survival and improved median progression-free survival compared to chemotherapy alone.
      • Booking Health connects international patients with leading European hospitals that specialize in cervical cancer immunotherapy and personalized care.

    These breakthroughs represent a major advancement in the treatment of metastatic cervical cancer – delivering not only longer survival, but also a significantly improved quality of life. To explore your personalized treatment options, contact Booking Health today and take the next step toward advanced cervical cancer care.

    Booking Health Unveils New Study: Role of Immunotherapy in Extending Life Expectancy for Stage 4 Cervical Cancer Patients

    Side_Effects

    About Booking Health

    Booking Health™ is the international platform for rapid access to innovative treatments in the world’s leading certified clinics. Our network features over 250 top-tier hospitals across the globe, all distinguished by the exceptional levels of medical accreditation and expertise. By arranging care with the help of Booking Health company, you benefit from comprehensive medical support based on the latest innovations and personalized coordination. We offer cost saving up to 70% compared to direct booking via clinics — all without compromising on quality. Choosing Booking Health means more than just acquiring access to innovative world-class therapy – it means saving valuable time knowing that every detail is handled by professionals. Headquartered in Bad Hönningen, Germany and officially registered in Düsseldorf under HRB 106466, Booking Health proudly consults patients from over 75 countries for over a decade, offering services in 11 languages. 

    Press inquiries

    Booking Health
    https://bookinghealth.com/
    Lena Hanten
    marketing@bookinghealth.com

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  • Molbio Diagnostics supports Philippines to accelerate TB elimination drive

    Molbio Diagnostics supports Philippines to accelerate TB elimination drive

    Molbio Diagnostics supports Philippines to accelerate TB elimination drive

    August 11, 2025 | Monday | News

    Currently there are 68 Truenat devices deployed across the Philippines

    The Philippines, one of the top five countries with the highest tuberculosis (TB) burden, faces the challenge of detecting and treating an estimated 190,000 missed TB cases each year.

    In line with the United Nations target to find and treat 2.1 million TB cases in the country by 2027, the Philippines Health Department is stepping up its commitment to strengthen community-level screening and diagnosis through India-made innovative Truenat systems and ultra-portable X-ray devices.

    Currently, there are 68 Truenat devices deployed across the Philippines, enabling rapid, multi-disease molecular testing for TB, HIV, HPV, Hepatitis B & C, and more. A pilot in the Bantayan Islands demonstrated the transformative potential of the platform, achieving a remarkable 1008% increase in TB case detection.

    Molbio’s WHO-endorsed and ICMR-approved solutions for TB detection, address critical barriers in the Philippines, such as geographic isolation, underutilisation of laboratory testing, and limited access in rural and island communities. The recent approval of the PRORAD Atlas Ultraportable X-ray by the Philippines FDA paves the way for integrated, end-to-end TB screening and diagnosis, ensuring immediate linkage to treatment.

    Health Secretary of Philippines Dr Theodore J Herbosa said, “As we intensify our efforts to combat tuberculosis (TB) in the Philippines, the collaboration with India stands as a beacon of innovation and partnership. The integration of India’s indigenous diagnostic technologies, such as the Truenat® system, into our healthcare infrastructure is pivotal. Truenat®, known for its rapid and reliable molecular diagnostic capabilities, allows for swift and accurate TB screenings, enhancing our capacity to manage and eventually eliminate TB within our borders, especially in remote areas. This collaboration is part of a broader, strengthening bilateral relationship between India and the Philippines, which now exceeds $3 billion in trade. India is a key supplier of pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and diagnostic technologies, contributing significantly to our healthcare advancements.”

    With a portfolio spanning more than 40 tests for infectious and non-infectious diseases, Molbio combines portability, speed, and accuracy to strengthen public health systems worldwide. Molbio’s ongoing studies include a multi-country project funded by the R2D2 TB Network that is exploring novel tongue swab–based molecular diagnostics to improve TB detection among children and people living with HIV/AIDS.

    “By bringing testing closer to communities—whether on remote islands or underserved rural areas—we can close the gap in TB detection and treatment, helping the Philippines achieve its elimination targets. We are committed to strengthening the fight against infectious diseases across the globe, helping countries build more resilient and responsive health systems,” said Shiva Sriram, President of Molbio Diagnostics.


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  • Liver cancer linked to fatty liver disease projected to increase by 2050 – Liver Disease News

    1. Liver cancer linked to fatty liver disease projected to increase by 2050  Liver Disease News
    2. Deadly drink: How alcohol is fuelling Kenya’s liver cancer crisis  Daily Nation
    3. Lancet Commission Suggests 10-Point Plan To Prevent Millions Of Cases Of Liver Cancer  ETV Bharat
    4. International commission calls for action against hepatocellular carcinoma  News-Medical
    5. Most liver cancers are preventable, study says  MSN

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  • RSPO2 gene identified as key driver in metastatic prostate cancer

    RSPO2 gene identified as key driver in metastatic prostate cancer

    A new research paper was published in Volume 16 of Oncotarget on July 25, 2025, titled “Dissecting the functional differences and clinical features of R-spondin family members in metastatic prostate cancer.”

    In this study, researchers led by first author Aiden Deacon and corresponding author Justin Hwang from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities investigated a group of genes known as the R-spondin family (RSPO1/2/3/4) in advanced prostate cancer (PC). The RSPO gene family regulates Wnt signaling, a pathway involved in cancer progression.

    Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States and becomes especially dangerous when it spreads beyond the prostate. Most patients are treated with hormone therapies that target the androgen receptor; however, many tumors eventually become resistant.

    The research team analyzed thousands of tumor samples and found that RSPO2 alterations were more common than changes in other R-spondin genes or even some well-known cancer-related genes like CTNNB1 and APC. RSPO2 amplification occurred in over 20% of metastatic prostate cancer. Patients with these alterations showed signs of more aggressive disease, including higher mutation rates and greater tumor complexity.

    Using laboratory models, the team discovered that RSPO2 increases cancer cell growth and triggers a biological process called epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT is known to promote tumor spread and resistance to standard treatments. Unlike other genes in the same pathway, RSPO2 also appeared to reduce the activity of androgen receptor genes, suggesting it drives a type of prostate cancer that no longer relies on hormones for growth.

    “In cell lines, RSPO2 overexpression caused up-regulation of EMT pathways, including EMT-regulatory transcription factors ZEB1, ZEB2, and TWIST1.”

    Importantly, RSPO2 showed structural differences from other R-spondin proteins, which may allow researchers to design drugs that specifically block its activity. Current therapies targeting the Wnt pathway are limited, and there are no approved drugs that inhibit RSPO2. However, this study highlights RSPO2 as a promising therapeutic target, especially for patients who do not respond to existing hormone-based treatments.

    This research adds critical knowledge about how aggressive prostate cancers develop and persist despite therapy. The identification of RSPO2 as a key driver of disease progression opens new possibilities for treatment strategies aimed at improving outcomes for patients with advanced prostate cancer.

    Source:

    Journal reference:

    Deacon, A., et al. (2025). Dissecting the functional differences and clinical features of R-spondin family members in metastatic prostate cancer. Oncotarget. doi.org/10.18632/oncotarget.28758.

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  • Breakthrough approaches enhance RNA delivery while minimizing inflammation

    Breakthrough approaches enhance RNA delivery while minimizing inflammation

    Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are tiny fat bubbles that are used to deliver medicines, genes, and RNA into cells. However, in some cases LNPs can cause harmful inflammation as a result of the process of RNA delivery. Now, two new solutions can help alleviate inflammation while still getting RNA where it needs to be in the cell. One discovery found that inflammation could be reduced with the addition of a unique biodegradable lipid to the treatment; another solution identified a common drug, called thiodigalactoside (TG), which blocked inflammation when added to the LNP. Today’s Nature Nanotechnology features this research from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.

    For patients with inflammatory diseases like ARDS, heart attack, or stroke, our solutions– a new lipid and a galectin-blocking drug-make RNA therapies safer.”


    Jacob Brenner, MD, PhD, study co-author, assistant professor of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care

    Patching holes, safer RNA delivery

    LNPs enter cells with the help of endosomes, tiny sacs which help direct material entering cells to the right places. The research team found that when LNPs are delivering their “load” of RNA, the endosomes rupture like a burst balloon, allowing harmful substances to leak out and spark immune responses. These holes are detected by proteins called galectins, which drive inflammation.

    Scientists found that adding a special fat molecule, 4A3-SC8, makes smaller holes that the cell can quickly patch up, reducing inflammation while keeping RNA delivery effective. In other words, the endosome springs a leak and the fat molecule can fix it.

    They also discovered that a readily available but uncommon drug called thiodigalactoside (TG) can block inflammation when added to LNPs. TG is normally used to treat inflammation and cancer.

    These strategies proved transformative in a mouse model of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a common disease where fluid builds up in the lungs and oxygen levels drop to dangerous levels. Using either new treatment, the team delivered mRNA to treat the ARDS, which dramatically reduced lung inflammation and tissue damage without the harmful side effects typically caused by LNPs. 

    A step forward for RNA

    “By designing LNPs that cause less damage and block inflammation pathways, we can expand RNA treatments to conditions like ARDS, heart attack, and stroke, where inflammation is a major challenge,” Brenner said.

    He points out that these findings don’t mean COVID-19 vaccine LNPs cause harmful inflammation. “Vaccines rely on LNPs to stimulate the immune system throughout the body, which is key to their success, but this immune activation can worsen conditions like stroke or ARDS when LNPs are used as treatments,” Brenner explained. “Our study shows how to make LNPs safer for such diseases by reducing unwanted inflammation.”

    The findings mark a significant step forward for RNA therapeutics, which have shown promise in treating cancers, genetic disorders, and now inflammatory diseases.

    “This represents meaningful progress for RNA-based therapeutics,” said first author Serena Omo-Lamai, a PhD student researcher. “Our approaches could make LNPs safer and more versatile, opening doors to treat inflammatory diseases that were previously out of reach.” 

    The study was funded by the American Heart Association (23PRE1014444, 24PRE1195406), the National Institutes of Health (1F31AG077874-01, R61DA058501, R01 DA057337, R01 HL157189, R01 HL153510, R01 HL60694, R01 HL164594, and R41 NS130812), the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Tully Family Familial Pulmonary Fibrosis Research Award (5K08HL150226), and the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (F31HL154662).

    Source:

    University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine

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  • Researchers Expand Medical Frontiers at 2025 Genomic Medicine Symposium | University of Utah Health

    Researchers Expand Medical Frontiers at 2025 Genomic Medicine Symposium | University of Utah Health

    Since the days of the Human Genome Project, University of Utah Health has been a leader in human genetics. U of U Health researchers have determined the genetic causes of diseases, pioneered precision-medicine strategies to bring the best care to every patient, and leveraged unique Utah databases to uncover fundamental facets of human biology.

    Today, advances in research and technology make genetic medicine an increasingly viable solution to previously intractable problems, from rapid diagnosis of rare diseases to understanding the basis of complex human traits.

    At the 2025 Genomic Medicine Symposium, the Center for Genomic Medicine at University of Utah Health, partnering with the Center for Personalized Medicine at Primary Children’s Hospital, came together to share research strategies, celebrate successes, and build new collaborations to advance genetic medicine.

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  • Study: Women who have been stalked have higher heart health risks

    Study: Women who have been stalked have higher heart health risks

    A new study by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston suggests women who have been stalked or have obtained a restraining order are at an increased risk of heart conditions later in life. File Photo by Shou Sheng/EPA

    Victims of stalkers appear to have an increased risk of heart disease, a new study says.

    Women who had been stalked or had obtained a restraining order were more likely to develop heart problems later in life, researchers reported in the journal Circulation.

    “Stalking is often seen as a form of violence that does not involve physical contact, which may make it seem less serious,” said lead researcher Rebecca Lawn, a research associate in epidemiology at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston.

    “However, our findings suggest stalking should not be minimized,” she added in a news release.

    For the study, researchers tracked the health of more than 66,000 women recruited into a large-scale health study in 2001 at an average age of 46.

    Of the participants, 7,700 reported themselves as victims of stalking and nearly 3,700 had to get a restraining order to protect them from harassment.

    Women who reported being stalked had 41% greater odds of developing heart disease, compared to those who hadn’t been stalked, results show.

    Those who got a restraining order were 70% more likely to have heart disease, researchers found.

    Women who had a history of both being stalked and getting a restraining order had the highest observed level of heart disease risk — double that of women who not had either traumatic experience.

    Further, women who suffered heart attacks or strokes in the years since their incidents were more likely to have reported being stalked or getting a restraining order, the study says.

    Researchers said the link between heart health and stalking might be explained by the psychological distress caused by being menaced and threatened. Such stress can trigger a person’s “fight or flight” response, causing disruption in heart and blood pressure function as well as other health problems.

    Dr. Harmony Reynolds, immediate past chair of the American Heart Association’s Clinical Cardiology & Stroke Women’s Health Science Committee, said the effects of such stress can be long-lasting.

    “Perhaps because it is our nature to re-think about things that happen to us, making us experience the situation over and over,” Reynolds, director of the Sarah Ross Soter Center for Women’s Cardiovascular Research at NYU Grossman School of Medicine in New York City, said in a news release.

    “However, social support may mitigate the effects of stress,” said Reynolds, who was not involved in the research. “It’s helpful to have people you can trust to talk with, whether they are family, friends, people in the community or professionals.”

    Reynolds noted that it’s already known that people subjected to intimate partner violence have a 30% higher risk of heart disease.

    “While this study shows a more moderate risk, given the long time frame, it highlights how feeling unsafe can affect the body, in addition to the mind,” Reynolds said. “A variety of stressful life experiences are known to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, including adverse childhood experiences, financial stressors, grief and other experiences.”

    More information

    The Cleveland Clinic has more on stress and heart disease.

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  • UIC researchers cast new light on cell structure

    UIC researchers cast new light on cell structure

    Ying Hu, associate professor of chemistry, studies immune cells. (Photo: Jenny Fontaine/UIC)

    Immune cell researcher Ying Hu describes his microscopic subjects as ocean liners cruising in a pitch-black sea. 

    “Imagine a ship with no lights on. You don’t know how big the boat is or what its outline looks like. Similarly, if you don’t know an immune cell’s shape and structure, it’s difficult to visualize because you don’t know what to look for,” said Hu, an associate professor of chemistry in the UIC College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and member of the University of Illinois Cancer Center.

    In Hu’s analogy, the ship’s lights are comparable to the proteins in a cell’s outermost layer: the plasma membrane. 

    In a Nature Communications study, Hu and colleagues introduced a technique to create a visual of a mammalian immune cell’s plasma membrane structure in less than five minutes. By chemically staining proteins on the cell’s plasma membrane, researchers can map the cell’s structure and better understand how it communicates and fights threats like cancer. 

    A 3D image of a human T cell.
    A 3D volumetric superresolution image of a human T cell with pan-membrane-protein labeling. Color encodes the depth. (Photo courtesy of Ying Hu)

    Essentially, the technique “turns on all the ocean liner’s lights at once,” Hu said. 

    To label proteins, researchers typically track them down and attach a naturally fluorescent protein derived from a bioluminescent jellyfish. The catch? Researchers must know the protein’s identity to track it down. Hu’s method, which uses chemistry to light up all proteins indiscriminately, catches 90% of the proteins in a cell’s outer layer — even those that haven’t already been found. 

    Visualizing a cell’s plasma membrane provides insight into its functions: facilitating cell-to-cell communication and fighting harmful agents like viruses, bacteria and cancer. Understanding immune cells also helps patients choose the best treatment, Hu said. 

    “Immunotherapy, where a patient’s immune cells are mutated to fight cancer, is a miracle, but it doesn’t work for everyone,” he said. “With our method, we could conduct a ‘check-up’ on patients’ T-cells to see if immunotherapy is a sustainable choice.” 

    Headshot of Hirushi Gunasekara.
    Hirushi Gunasekara (Photo: Hirushi Gunasekara)

    Hirushi Gunasekara, a postdoctoral researcher in chemistry and the paper’s first author, said that visualizing immune cells and other cells is key to unlocking many of nature’s mysteries. 

    “We’re repurposing a robust, classical chemistry reaction for a broader application,” she said. “Anyone can use this, even people who are not trained in chemistry, to help understand and fight cancer and other immune threats.”

    Additional UIC authors include: Yu-Shiuan Cheng, Vanessa Perez-Silos, Alejandro Zevallos-Morales, Daniel Abegg, Alyssa Burgess, Liang-Wei Gong, Richard Minshall, Alexander Adibekian, Carlos Murga-Zamalloa and Alison Ondrus.

    Research reported in this press release was supported by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under award number R35GM146786. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.

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