The GENCODE project showed that roughly 70% of the human genome is transcribed into RNA, including many long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), defined as RNA molecules longer than 200 nucleotides that lack protein-coding potential. However, recent evidence suggests some lncRNAs may produce “hidden” proteins whose potential role in cancer remains unknown. To investigate this, researchers led by Yiwen Chen, Ph.D., used an integrative genomic strategy combining CRISPR/Cas9 knockout screens with data from The Cancer Genome Atlas....

Pancreatic cancer is notoriously difficult to treat, partly due to a tumor microenvironment that is highly resistant to immunotherapy. Data for nonmyelinating Schwann cells, which wrap around small neuronal axons to provide support and to promote new sprouting, suggests these cells may facilitate pancreatic tumor invasion into the nervous system. To further understand the role of these cells, researchers led by Liuqing Yang, Ph.D., and Chunru Lin, Ph.D., characterized the gene signature of tumor-associated nonmyelinating...

To determine the appropriate treatment approach for metastatic cancer, it is critical to identify a tumor’s primary site of origin. Specific biomarkers to assist with proper diagnosis could benefit clinicians and patients. PAX8 is commonly used to determine if a tumor is of gynecologic origin, but it also is highly expressed in other cancers such as thyroid and renal carcinomas, making it difficult to reliably diagnose tumors with ovarian and endometrial origin. To identify a...

According to Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy, Texas needs to establish a state research institute to tackle a growing brain health crisis – which will contribute to healthier and more productive communities. Brain diseases have profound impacts on public health, according to author Harris Eyre, fellow in brain health at the Baker Institute’s Center for Health and Biosciences. These diseases can cause tremendous pain and suffering for individuals of all ages and their...

With firearm injury now the leading cause of death in children and adolescents in the U.S., researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch are working to fully define the spectrum of fatal and non-fatal firearm injuries to guide efforts to address this public health crisis. A UTMB study found that nearly 5,000 children and adolescents were injured or killed by firearms every year from 2008 to 2019 – 1.4 times higher than what was...