Unnaturally repeating copies of genetic code called tandem duplications within the UBTF gene lead to a high-risk form of acute myeloid leukemia, UBTF-TD AML, which is known for treatment resistance and relapse. Researchers found that these copies give rise to an anomalous transport signal not found in the naturally occurring UBTF protein. 

The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology has launched a new clinical trial seeking to evaluate the feasibility of delivering a structured exercise program entirely through telehealth for patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy with the ultimate goal of reducing fatigue and disability. The DEFEND (distance-based exercise to preserve function and prevent disability), trial (Alliance A222302) aims to enroll participants between the ages of 18 and 65 who are receiving chemotherapy with curative intent. The study will assess whether virtual exercise sessions, consisting of supervised resistance and aerobic exercise training, can successfully be delivered to patients during treatment. The study will also explore whether the exercise program can help patients maintain physical function, reduce fatigue and prevent disability during treatment, providing critical data to inform the design of a subsequent phase III trial powered to evaluate the impact of exercise on these outcomes. 

Targeting a specialized group of histones is safe and opens new therapeutic opportunities for treating blood cancers. This is the main finding of the latest research by Dr Marcus Buschbeck and Dr René Winkler, researchers at the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute. Experimental results confirm that the removal of any of the three proteins of the macroH2A family of histones, linked to Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, is well tolerated in mice and has no major effect on their health.