Cancer News Information

Sclerostin antibody - Sclerostin is a secreted glycoprotein with a protein sequence similar to the bone morphogenic protein antagonist family. The protein is encoded by the SOST gene in humans. It is produced by the osteocyte and down regulates osteoblastic bone formation.

Recently, sclerostin has been implicated in the inhibition of Wnt signaling leading to attenuated bone formation and growth, acting as a stop signal to decrease bone formation by osteoblasts. Mutations in sclerostin are a result from early stop signals during protein production, leading to uninhibited Wnt signaling and bone overgrowth. The mutations in this process can lead to a range of diseases, such as type II diabetes, breast and prostate cancer.

Production of this protein is inhibited by parathyroid hormone, leading to enhanced release of the calcium from the large reservoir contained in the bones, indirectly stimulating bone resorption by osteoclasts, and various other cytokines. Production of this protein is stimulated by calcitonin, a hormone which acts to reduce blood calcium levels that acts in opposition to the parathyroid hormone.

Bone remodelling is the process by which the adult skeleton is continually renewed through the highly coordinated activity of three types of cells, which are osteoclasts, osteoblasts, and osteocytes. Disruptions in signalling among these cells and alterations in their activity have been associated with skeletal diseases such as 'van Buchem disease'.

Mutations in the sclerostin gene are associated with the autosomal-recessive disorder called sclerosteosis, in addition to other disorders characterized by bone overgrowth. Sclerosteosis is a rare disorder characterized by bone over growth primarily in the skull, mandible and long, tubular bones. Individual affected with this homozygous disorder have no detectable levels of circulating sclerostin. However, heterozygous individuals for the mutations express the normal phenotype and normal lifespan, with dense bones and a low risk for fracture. This observation has led to the development of a novel strategy to emulate the heterozygous mutational state as an effective treatment for bone loss disorders such as osteoporosis.

Sclerostin is the subject of key research into both bone overgrowth and bone loss. As Sclerostin antibody could potentially increase bone formation significantly without effecting bone resorption and enhance bone strength. Thus, sclerostin antibody can potentially alleviate osteoporosis disease, this occurs when bones become fragile and more likely to fracture.

This has been established in numerous clinical trials in rats, monkeys, and in humans. It has been recognized that the absence of the sclerostin protein leads to bone overgrowth. Whereas an excess amount of sclerostin leads to bone loss and reduced bone strength. This was proved in various trials, for instance the trial on a six month old female rats was a success. Once the sclerostin antibody was administered, it quickly created an increase in bone formation on trabecular, periosteal, endocortical, and intracortical surfaces. For the human clinical trials, it was a success in healthy men and postmenopausal women (72 targets), as the antibody was tolerated well, which was the palpable primary goal. Additionally, the targets had augmented bone density for hip fractures and in their spine. Methods to increase bone in humans have long been sought. The bone formation axis controlled by sclerostin may provide an important new strategy to accomplish this. Thus, Sclerostin asserts itself as a prime therapeutic target to address bone disorders. The modification of its activity or expression offers an exciting possibility for the development of new drugs for the treatment of disorders associated with bone loss.

This antibody is for research use only and can be used on the following applications, WB (western blot), IHC-P(immunohistochemistry), and P-ELISA.

TNF alpha antibody - The TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor) Alpha is a multifunctional pro-inflammatory adipokine, a cell signaling protein secreted by adipose tissue, involved in systemic inflammation and stimulation of the acute phase reaction. It is is a potent lymphoid factor that exerts cytotoxic effects on a wide range of tumor cells and certain other target cells.This protein is primarily produced as a type two transmembrane protein arranged in stable homotrimers. This membrane bound form of the protein is then proteolytically cleaved into the secreted form of TNF alpha, both the secreted and membrane bound protein are biologically active. The adipokine can bind two TNF receptors. The first receptor is expressed in most tissues and can interact and be activated by both forms of the TNF protein. While, in contrast, the second TNF receptor is only found in immune cells and respond to the membrane bound form of the TNF protein.

While is can be secreted by many cells types, including CD4+ lymphocytes, natural killer cells and neurons; this adipokine is produced primarily by activated macrophages. TNF alphas primary role is the regulation of immune cells. The adipokine is also an endogenous pyrogen and is able to induce fever both directly and via stimulation of interleukin secretion, apoptotic cell death, cachexia (wasting syndrome), inflammation and tumorigenesis (carcinogenesis) and viral replication inhibition. TNF alpha has been implicated in a variety of illnesses, such as cancer, insulin resistance, and autoimmune diseases.

Tumor Necrosis Factor promotes an inflammatory response to remove harmful stimuli, which include damaged cells, irritants, or pathogens, and then begins the therapeutic process. The inflammatory response is generally in response to a foreign pathogen but in some cases, excessive inflammation may be indicative of an autoimmune disease and other disorders. Some examples of autoimmune diseases are ankylosing spondylitis (chronic inflammatory disease of the axial skeleton), Crohn's disease (inflammatory bowel disease), psoriasis (lifelong condition that affects the skin), hidradenitis suppurativa (skin diseases) and asthma (known as refractory asthma, if the symptoms persist long-term).

Additionally, TNF alpha can be a gateway to provide a biological therapy to patients as it is a proinflammatory cytokine that has been implicated in many aspects of the airway pathology in asthma, and can potentially be a significant factor in refractory asthma (persistent symptoms). This is completed by inducing either an increase in resistance or a decrease in driving pressure. As a result, TNA alpha antibody can be used as a therapeutic option for patients by increasing the resistance of the autoimmune disease, which will increase airway responsiveness.

The biotechnology industry is the operation of biological processes for scientific reagents and for other scientific functions. Fundamentally, biological reagents are mechanisms that are used in biochemical analysis to assess biological processes. It can be used to produce antibodies that are used to target a particular protein target, which are known as antigens.

The host of the TNF alpha antibody is a rabbit, and it reacts withhuman, mouse and rat. The antibody can be used on the following applications, WB (western blot), and IHC-P (immunohistochemistry).

My soul mate of 24 years died in my arms two weeks ago. She had throat cancer and hadn't been able to swallow much for four months. Got her calories through a feeding tube. She weighed 80 pounds at the end, but the wisdom she went out with was solid gold. I was always the star, the one on stage, the one saying "Look at me!" and Annie was always holding the spotlight, directing their attention -- what Bette Midler would call "the wind beneath my wings."

All our lives, Annie O'Flaherty was an introvert with a capital I. All through our years at St. Anthony of Padua, all during our times in the convent as Sisters of St. Joseph, all through our roller coaster relationship of 24 years. What happened then, I had to wonder, when days before her death, she decided she wanted to have a memorial event while she was still alive? The department heads from her workplace were coming en masse for a visit and Annie decided to turn the whole thing into an (A)Wake. Your choir can sing, she said, but only these three songs. Nothing sentimental. No poetry. Just these three phrases that have been meaningful for me all my life. She wanted me to make a soundtrack using the overture from the movie BABE (she became a vegetarian the day she saw it and never ate meat after), Lee Womack's I Hope You Dance and Celebration Time Come On!

"You can read my phrases," she said, "but don't go taking over. This is MY memorial and I don't want any extras thrown in. I want it short and upbeat. And I want everyone I know to be invited." I put out a call to my mailing list for people around the country to send email notes to Annie that she could have at her event. Hundreds came pouring in. When I asked Annie one night what she wanted to be remembered for, she said "I want to be remembered as a person who was kind, funny and compassionate." Every one of those emails said exactly that.

The night came and dozens of people gathered to see Annie off. They sat by her as she kept her post on the patio couch. My 90-year-old mom was there. The Gnostic Gospel Choir was there. People she'd worked with for years came to sit and whisper their gratitude in her ears. The rabbi came. The priest came. People called in from around the country. And the words she wanted read as part of the ritual: from Hamlet, "The readiness is all." From Mary Queen of Scots, In my end is my beginning." And from Dag Hammarskjöld, "For all that has been, thanks. For all that will be, Yes!"

A week before she died, she wrote these words in her journal: "I am happier than I have ever been in my life. Even when falling in love with Jan. That was ecstasy, wildness, promise. This is different. Deep. Rich. Given unsought. Calm. Rooted. Peaceful. Lasting. I am blessed. And at peace."

Annie O'Flaherty's body is gone, but her tone is still resonating. I am changing every day as this glacier of grief moves through the landscape of me. The backyard is still the same. BABE still sits on the altar. The orchids are still alive. But I can't go out there yet. I can't dismantle the stage she created. I can't look out there without crying, half for sorrow, half for joy, that this woman I loved created a space for everyone to love her back before it was too late. A template, perhaps, for a new way of moving on...

The field of genetics has witnessed revolutionary new technologies and trends in the last decade. One of the groundbreaking breakthroughs is the next generation sequencing. This technology has equipped the researchers for determining the DNA sequences of entire genomes of bacteria. This has led to the evolution of metagenomics which is a field to study sequencing the genetic makeup for an entire community. Small samples of microbes are extracted and their combined DNA is studied using next generation sequencing.

Inarguably the most significant technological advances in the biotechnology sphere, this technique has allowed experts to simultaneously sequence several genomes in a single instrument in less than two weeks. The targeted methods for DNA enrichment allow higher genome throughput at a much lower cost per sample. The technique is now being implemented in the cancer field to study its genetic aspects. Over the span of a few years only, next generation sequencing has matured to the point where it is being run routinely by the leading laboratories of the world for diagnostic purposes. The main attractions of the technique are the sophisticated sensitivity, the speed and the reduced expenditure per sample.

The next generation sequencing

The experimental samples can be collated from any biotic or abiotic ecosystem such as soil, water etc. They can also be acquired from extreme environments such as arctic or hot springs. These contain millions of microbes and fungi which cohabitate together. The sample is then analysed and then sequencing occurs as per the desired needs.

Next generation sequencing basically deals with the ability to sequence massive DNA templates on parallel basis. These help carry the evolution process from second and third generations form the first generation 'Sanger' sequencing. To achieve this, the second generation platforms deploy amplification by cloning of DNA on a support matrix which is followed by cyclic sequencing. There are numerous benefits of this procedure.

Some of these are:

• Reduced costs
• Removal of PCR bias
• High speed
• Sensitivity

However, this is to be noted that the technique is still maturing and it is likely to rival the second generation techniques in a few years and enter mainstream medical arena.

The motivators of next generation sequencing

• Identification of species

One of the main purposes of studying next generation sequencing is to identify species. The technique has eliminated the limit of laboratory by sequencing the bacterial colonies into communal groups. The high end software developments have allowed the processing of sequenced data into individual bacterial genomes and their identification.

• Provision of simplified understanding of the ecosystem of samples

The metagenomic study has enabled the scientists to gain better insights in the environment of the sustaining bacteria. This gives a better understanding of the physiology and structure of the breeding species. This helps in derivation better results and in depth analysis into the mutual relationship which aids the co-existence of both species.

Thus, next generation sequencing helps in understanding the existence of biospheres. This, in turn helps deduce important information in the field of medicinal biology. With the help of this technique, the scientists are able to develop effective medicines and vaccines for the pathogens. Over time, the technique may even prove valuable in the other bioinformatics fields.

Cancer is one of the diseases that have been on the rise in the recent years. There are different types of cancer and this means that their signs and symptoms also vary depending on the area or body part that is prone to the disease. Just like any other disease early detection and diagnosis of cancer can assist in containing the disease in its early stages before spreading to other parts of the body. This is why awareness campaigns are carried out for people to take self tests as well as visit health facilities for them to know early enough whether they could be having a particular type of cancer or not. Here are some of the symptoms that should act as warning signs and which should be cleared by visiting a medical practitioner for verification purposes.

(a) A lump in the breast is one of the signs that women are advised to look at for at all times. This can be detected through self examination at home as long as you know how to do it. Any lump in the body which keeps growing should also be medically examined to rule out any chances of cancer disease.

(b) Persistent cough that lasts for over three weeks should be a reason for concern especially if you are under medication. This can be accompanied by chest pains and breathlessness. Though there are other diseases that exhibit the same signs and symptoms it is better to get thorough check ups

(c) Problems with the bowels should be checked as well especially in situations where there is constant bloating of the stomach, pain in the abdomen, constipation, diarrhea and traces of blood in your stool.

(d) Any signs of bleeding in between your menses for the women should be checked. The same goes for conditions where a person vomits or coughs blood or notices blood in the urine.

(e) Moles of any size should be brought to the attention of a physician who will be able to determine whether it is malignant or not. Do not assume it just because it is not itchy.

(f) If you notice a drastic change in your body weight it is important to ask a professional especially if it is not as a result of the exercise program you just started or stress.

(g) Difficulty in swallowing can be a symptom to other diseases but it should not be ignored because it could also be a sign of GI cancer.

Summary

The above mentioned symptoms may be shared by other types of ailments and diseases. This is why it is advisable to seek medical attention to know exactly the condition that you are suffering from. Do not administer self diagnosis and prescription because instead of making things better you could be making them worse. It is only a medic with the right qualification that can diagnose and recommend treatment for cancer.

There are many reports that have been introduced regarding cancer prevention. Cancer is still undergoing extensive research and there are no clear cut lines on how to prevent the disease. However, there are certain lifestyle choices that can reduce the risk of developing cancer. This is because they tend to boost immune system and make you healthy overall. Below are some simple lifestyle changes that you can incorporate to help prevent cancer.

First, avoid using tobacco products. Tobacco will increase your risk of developing different types of cancer such as lung, bladder and kidney cancer. When you chew tobacco, you are increasing the risk of getting pancreatic cancer or cancer of the oral cavity. Remember that expose to second hand tobacco smoke can also put you at risk. You need to seek help if you are willing to quit tobacco but you cannot on your own. There are a number of products in the market which can help you to stop tobacco dependency.

Secondly, incorporate the right foods in your diet. You need to take plenty of fruits and vegetables. Foods from plant sources will improve liver function and boost your immunity. Avoid high fat foods because it enhances the risk of obesity which is known to increase the risk of cancer. Avoid drinking excessive alcohol because it may cause liver cancer.

Thirdly, remain physically active and you will reduce the risk of cancer. Cancer prevention and physical activity have been linked by many researchers. Ideally, you should engage in 30 minutes of activity every day. You can combine vigorous activities and moderate activities. If you are able to exercise more than 30 minutes a day, it will help you increase immune system even more.

You also need to protect yourself from harsh sunlight which is likely to cause skin cancer. The sun rays are the strongest between 10am and 4pm so you should try and stay in the shade during these hours. Wear clothes that cover your skin and opt for dark or bright colors which reflect UV rays as opposed to bleached cotton clothes. Always put on your sun screen and avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.

You also need to protect yourself by avoiding risky behaviors. People who have conditions like HIV and AIDS are likely to experience cancer of the anus, lung and liver. HIV tends to suppress your immune system so you are more prone to infections. You should boost immune system by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and staying away from irresponsible behaviors which will put you at risk of acquiring HPV and HIV virus.

Lastly, it is always important to take your medical checkups very seriously. Getting proper medical care will help in cancer prevention. The physician will perform the right tests whenever you encounter an illness so that the cancer is detected early enough. Visit the doctor whenever you have a body issue, don't ignore it or treat it on your own using over the counter medication. All these tips will help to increase immune system and prevent cancer.

The American Cancer Society projects that in 2013, nearly 73,000 new bladder cancer diagnoses occur. Most of the cases--nearly 55,000 will occur in men--about 18,000 in women. New diagnoses rates have stabilized in the last few years and have even dropped slightly in women. A bladder cancer diagnosis isn't an automatic death sentence. There are over a half a million bladder cancer survivors in America today.

Surviving Bladder Cancer

A common question most patients ask after a diagnosis relates to survival rates. Like many other cancers, bladder cancer survival rates correlate to the stage of cancer present. While statistics represent a massive amount of patients studied over several years, each person's situation is different and many factors contribute to a person's survival.

The most recent study, according to the American Cancer Society, yields positive survival rates for patients diagnosed with stage zero (98%) or stage one (88%) bladder cancer. As expected, survival rates tend to decline depending on the advanced stage of diagnosed cancer. The rates are:

• Stage two: 63%
• Stage three: 46%
• Stage four: 15%

Keep in mind that these statistics reflect thousands of patients studied over time. Some people who don't get diagnosed until stage four survive and live for years afterward.

Risk Factors

It's unclear what causes bladder cancer, but certain risk factors raise the likelihood of developing cancer. These risk factors include:

• Smoking
• Growing older
• Being Caucasian
• Being male
• Prior cancer treatments
• Certain diabetes medications
• Recurring inflammation in the bladder from infection and other disorders
• Family history

Like many other cancers, a patient may not meet any of these criteria and develop cancer.

Types of Bladder Cancer

Cancer occurs when cells inside the bladder start growing abnormally, meaning they don't divide and grow like other cells. These cells don't die like typical cells and result in a tumor. There are three types of cells in the bladder that may mutate into cancer. The type of cell where the cancer originates dictates the type of cancer a patient has. Some cancer patients' cases consist of multiple cell cancers.

When cancer originates in the cells that line the interior wall of the bladder, the resulting cancer is transitional cell carcinoma. This type of cells stretches and shrinks according to the amount of urine present in the bladder and make up the interior of the urethra and ureters. Transitional cell carcinoma is the most frequently diagnosed cancer.

Squamous cells are found in the bladder when an infection or inflammation present. When these cells mutate, squamous cell carcinoma occurs. This type of cancer is rare in the U.S., but much more common in areas of the world where parasitic infection rates are higher.

Another rare form, adenocarcinoma, occurs in the mucous-making cells in the bladder.

Bladder Cancer Symptoms

The symptoms of this cancer closely mimic the symptoms present in a bladder infection. This might be part of the reason that diagnosis is delayed because patients see a physician for symptoms and are treated for an infection rather than cancer. Symptoms are:

• Urine that's bright red, looks like dark soda, or very dark yellow
• Urinating often
• Pain when urinating
• Pain in the back or pelvis

Any time a patient experiences symptoms that are concerning, a visit to the doctor is needed, especially if symptoms persist for a long period of time.