New supportive treatment option for embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma
Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common soft-tissue tumour in children. It is a tumour of mesenchymal origin that closely resembles skeletal muscle cells. Two types are classically distinguished: alveolar and embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. Both tumour types have in common that differentiation into postmitotic skeletal muscle cells is inhibited although they have the general capability for myogenic differentiation. Differentiating proliferating tumour cells into differentiated, non-dividing myotubes or muscle fibres could represent a new supportive approach in the treatment of rhabdomyosarcoma. A group of researchers led by Julia von Maltzahn at the Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg (BTU) and the Leibniz Institute on Aging (FLI) have found a way to convert embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma cells into differentiated postmitotic muscle cells. The Wilhelm Sander Foundation supported this project with EUR 185,000.
Genetic scissors and blood tests: A new model for lung cancer research
Small-cell lung cancer is one of the most aggressive forms of cancer. Tissue samples are rare, making realistic mouse models indispensable. Researchers led by Thorsten Stiewe at Philipps University of Marburg have developed a model in which CRISPR gene-editing technology switches off individual genes directly in the lung, thereby generating tumours. A fluorescent signal in the blood makes them detectable: just a few drops are enough to track their growth – month after month, without the burden of anaesthesia. Gene by gene, it becomes clear which natural brakes must fail and where new therapies can be targeted. The Wilhelm Sander Foundation funded the project with €154,280.