AN IMPROVED BIO-MARKER?

 The Joyce family

Quite som time ago

Nothing very earth shaking in the anti-OVCA line has crossed my computer lately, but I guess this is worth reporting.  As you surely know, a large part of the reason OVCA is so deadly is that it is very difficult to detect until it reaches an advanced stage.  Thus, much effort is expended in trying to develop sensitive bio-marker routines.  That is what my Fred Hutch research group worked on back then.  This article presents an advance on that front, utilizing a marker protein (HE4) discovered, if I remember correctly, by my Hutch research group.  Catch it early, improve longevity.  Not world class news, but welcome nonetheless.

https://www.aacc.org/cln/articles/2022/julyaugust/new-blood-biomarker-could-aid-ovarian-cancer-diagnosis 

GOOD HEWS, CHAPTER 3

Two precious creatures 

This is another take on the research, out of Rice University, that had me so excited a few weeks ago.  There is little new here, but it is pleasing to read this good news again.  To capsulize:  It seems to be possible to implant miniscule globules of something that spews out doses of a potent cancer-killer, Il-2.  This not only offs the tumor, it teaches the immune system what to look for (and kill), thereby fighting metastases as well.  This procedure worked perfectly in mice.  I presume studies involving humans are in the offing.

I must not let my hopes climb too high; there are many possible slips lurking out there.  But, Geez!

https://www.wndu.com/2022/06/23/medical-moment-an-implantable-treatment-ovarian-cancer/ 

ONE SMALL STEP FORWARD?

 Linda, Murphy, and Whiskers

I wrote earlier of Celsion, the little drug company that could, and its efforts to use genetics to combat ovarian cancer.  This article announces some encouraging results, and hints at FDA approval.  Be sure to notice that this trial was small – and that Celsion is desperate to raise its stock valuation.  I bought a few shares a year or so ago, and so far have lost over 60% of my initial investment! 

In an aside, I am glad I don’t have to separate cancer victims into a control group and a group that actually gets the stuff.  Thank God for computers and random-number generators!

https://www.curetoday.com/view/gene-therapy-gen-1-shows-promise-in-treating-advanced-ovarian-cancer