Patient-derived xenograft models: a revolution in colorectal cancer research
Peer-Reviewed Publication
Updates every hour. Last Updated: 13-Jan-2026 07:11 ET (13-Jan-2026 12:11 GMT/UTC)
Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models are emerging as a transformative tool in colorectal cancer (CRC) research, offering unparalleled insights into tumor biology, drug resistance, and personalized treatment approaches. These models, created by transplanting fresh human tumor tissue into immunodeficient mice, faithfully replicate the genetic, histological, and molecular features of the original tumors. As such, they serve as invaluable resources in the study of tumor heterogeneity and in the development of precision oncology.
Minimum volume thresholds for rare diseases: insights through the transfer of evidence
IQWiG presents a method for assessing the relationship between the volume of healthcare interventions and the quality of treatment, even in situations involving small case numbers and a lack of meaningful studies. The English translation of the rapid report is now available.
Emerging research highlights the transformative potential of m6A RNA modification in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). As the most abundant internal modification of eukaryotic RNA, m6A is pivotal in regulating gene expression, RNA metabolism, and cellular processes. Understanding its role in CVDs could revolutionize therapeutic strategies, offering new pathways to manage conditions like coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure (HF), pulmonary hypertension (PH), and arrhythmias (AH).
An increase in nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) levels in the air is associated with a 7% rise in the risk of cardiac arrest over four days. Particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀) elevates the risk on the same day as the peak.
The most common technique used for closing the uterus after a cesarean delivery causes so many long-term complications that it’s time to question its use. That’s the conclusion reached by two world-renowned specialists in obstetrics and gynecology in a special issue of the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology on cesarean delivery. The authors argue in favor of replacing the current approach with a closure technique that respects the natural anatomical structure of the uterus.
Researchers have developed a biomimetic mRNA delivery system that enhances the efficacy of PTEN mRNA in colorectal cancer immunotherapy. By using metal-ion coordination and cell-membrane coating, the system improves mRNA loading, cytosolic delivery, and stability, outperforming traditional lipid nanoparticles. The study also identifies a patient subgroup likely to benefit from PTEN-based treatment, provides an effective mRNA delivery system and conceptual proof for precise cancer immunotherapy.
Scientists from Tianjin University have made a groundbreaking advancement in cancer therapeutics by developing an oral "microbial fuel cell" capsule. This innovative platform, activated by non-invasive ultrasound, mounts a multi-pronged attack within colorectal tumors. It effectively eradicates tumor cells, activates the immune system, and remodels the intestinal microbiota. Animal model studies demonstrated an impressive approximately 90% tumor inhibition rate with no detectable systemic toxicity, establishing a novel paradigm for the treatment of colorectal cancer and other solid tumors.