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theguardian.com

Targeting ecDNA for Aggressive Cancer Treatment

A new study reveals that targeting ecDNA, small loops of rogue genetic material found in many aggressive cancers, could lead to new treatments for hard-to-treat cancers.

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English

United Kingdom

HealthCancerResearchTreatmentMedicineGenetics

Stanford UniversityCancer Research UkUs National Cancer InstituteFrancis Crick InstituteBoundless Bio

Paul MischelDavid ScottCharles Swanton

What is the main discovery of this study?: Extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA), small loops of rogue genetic material, are found in many aggressive cancers, contributing to their resistance to chemotherapy.
Who funded this research and what is its significance?: The research, funded by Cancer Grand Challenges, suggests a new path towards treating aggressive cancers by targeting ecDNA, potentially improving treatment outcomes and patient prognosis.
How many patients and tumor types were included in the study?: The study analyzed nearly 15,000 UK patients across 39 tumor types, revealing that over 17% contained ecDNA, particularly in breast, brain, and lung cancers.
What is a potential new treatment strategy mentioned in the study?: CHK1 inhibitors, currently in early clinical trials, show promise in selectively destroying ecDNA-containing tumor cells, potentially offering new treatment strategies for aggressive cancers.
How does ecDNA contribute to cancer growth and treatment resistance?: ecDNA carries cancer-driving genes and immune-suppressing genes, promoting tumor growth and evasion of the body's defenses, and its uneven replication boosts the tumor's resilience to drugs.

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