 Genome Code Cracked for Breast and Colon CancersJohns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center scientists have completed the first draft of the genetic code for breast and colon cancers. Their report, published online in the September 7 issue of Science Express, identifies close to 200 mutated genes, now linked to these cancers, most of which were not previously recognized as associated with tumor initiation, growth, spread or control. Podcast available online.
 Key To Lung Cancer Chemo Resistance RevealedScientists at Johns Hopkins have discovered how taking the brakes off a "detox" gene causes chemotherapy resistance in a common form of lung cancer. Products made by a gene called NRF2 normally protect cells from environmental pollutants like cigarette smoke and diesel exhaust by absorbing the materials and pumping them out of the cell. Another gene called KEAP1 encodes products that stop this cleansing process. But lung cancer cells sabotage the expression of these same genes to block assault from chemotherapy drugs.
 Mouse Tests Predict Drug Response in Relapsing Pancreatic Cancer PatientsBy slicing up bits of patient tumors and grafting them into mice, Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center specialists have figured out how to accurately "test drive" chemotherapy drugs to learn in advance which drug treatments offer each individual pancreatic cancer patient the best therapeutic journey.
 Model Predicts Colon Cancer Inheritable Genetic DefectsResearchers from the Johns Hopkins University and other institutions have developed a new prediction model for genetic defects known as Lynch syndrome, which predisposes families to develop colorectal cancer. The model, called MMRpro, is based on an individual's detailed family history of colorectal and endometrial cancer, as well as knowledge of how genetic mutations manifest themselves-in the form of tumors. It can assess a person's probability of carrying a particular defect within so-called mismatch repair genes. The study is published in the Sept. 27, 2006, issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
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