Cancer Research: Antibody-drug compounds and immunotherapy to treat breast cancer ♦ Drug may prevent life-threatening muscle loss in advanced cancers

Investigational drug may prevent life-threatening muscle loss in advanced cancers New data describes how an experimental drug can stop life-threatening muscle wasting (cachexia) associated with advanced cancers and restore muscle health. The experimental agent, known as AR-42 while in testing, was tested in preclinical studies

Detecting cancer cells before they form metastases A new method to detect cancer cells in the blood before they settle in the tissue and form a new tumor has been developed by a team of researchers. To date, it has been difficult to detect cancer cells in the blood at an early stage: about one malignant cell is encountered per billion of healthy cells.

Anticancer agent FL118 more potent than its analogs, not prone to typical channels of resistance A new synthetic form of camptothecin appears to have greater potency, longer efficacy and fewer adverse side effects than irinotecan and topotecan.

Antibody-drug compounds and immunotherapy to treat breast cancer To more efficiently treat breast cancer, scientists have been researching molecules that selectively bind to cancer cells and deliver a substance that can kill the tumor cells, for several years. Researchers have now, for the first time, successfully combined such an antibody-drug conjugate with a therapy that stimulates the immune system to attack tumor cells. This opens the door to new therapeutic options in the treatment of breast cancer

Seniors Health: Older beats younger when it comes to correcting mistakes ♦ Signs of faster aging process identified ♦ Muscle loss linked to falls, fractures in elderly

Signs of faster aging process identified through gene research New research has shed light on the molecular changes that occur in our bodies as we age. In the largest study of its kind, an international group of researchers examined expression of genes in blood samples from 15,000 people across the world. They found 1,450 genes that are linked to aging, and also uncovered a link between these genes and factors such as diet, smoking and exercise.

Older beats younger when it comes to correcting mistakes Findings from a new study challenge the notion that older adults always lag behind their younger counterparts when it comes to learning new things. The study shows that older adults were actually better than young adults at correcting their mistakes on a general information quiz.

Virtual Week' brain game has potential to help older adults remain independent longer Just one month of training on a 'Virtual Week' computer brain game helps older adults significantly strengthen prospective memory -- a type of memory that is crucial for planning, everyday functioning and independent living, an international team of scientists has demonstrated.

Muscle loss linked to falls, fractures in elderly Older people with an age-related loss of muscle mass and strength may be at greater risk of falling and bone fractures, according to new research. A study into sarcopenia -- where muscles lose form and function with age -- found that those with the condition reported higher numbers of falls in the last year and a higher prevalence of fractures.