NYSCF – Robertson Investigator Gains Insight Into Cancer Adaption
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NYSCF – Robertson Stem Cell Investigator Dr. Alex Meissner, Harvard University, analyzed the genetic patterns in cancer cells and found that disarray in the cellular on-off mechansim, known as methylation, is one of the defining characteristics of cancer and helps tumors adapt to changing circumstances.
The research, published in Cancer Cell, also showed that disorganized cell methylation had a direct impact on the effectiveness of cancer treatment in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. This finding will help scientists hone in on why some tumors resist treatment and could have a large impact on all cancer analysis and treatment.