U of M researchers develop model for better testing, targeting of MPNST

Researchers from the Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, and the University’s Brain Tumor Program, have developed a new mouse model of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) that allow them to discover new genes and gene pathways driving this type of cancer. Read more.

Umbilical cord blood is potential lifesaver for a young patient

John Wagner, M.D., director of the University of Minnesota's Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, and Michael Verneris, M.D., were featured in a front page Star Tribune story about their plans to treat a boy who was born with HIV and later developed a rare form of leukemia. This will be only the second attempt to treat a patient with both HIV and leukemia, and the first to use cord blood cells that have a rare HIV-resistant genetic mutation. Read more.

Using nanomagnetism and quantam spintronics for early detection of cancer

What do disease early detection, rare-earth-free magnets and massive information storage and processing all have in common? Magnetic materials could be instrumental in a new wave of solutions in these areas. Distinguished McKnight Professor Jian-Ping Wang is experimenting with magnetic materials for all these innovations, and more. Read more.

U of M mourns the death of cancer research pioneer, John Kersey, M.D.

The Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota lost its founder and one of its most prominent and influential scientists and physicians with the sudden death of John Kersey, M.D., at the age of 74. Read more.

Masonic Cancer Center researchers find key to breast cancer mutations

A team of researchers led by Reuben Harris, Ph.D., Masonic Cancer Center Genetics Mechanisms of Cancer Program member, have uncovered a human enzyme responsible for causing DNA mutations found in the majority of breast cancers. This discovery could change the way breast cancer is diagnosed and treated. Read more.  

Masonic Cancer Center members receive Minnesota Partnership Awards

Two members of the Masonic Cancer Center, Reuben Harris, Ph.D., and Lester Drewes, Ph.D.,  were among the five partnering teams of investigators from the University of Minnesota and the Mayo Clinic  to share in the $3.5 million awarded by the Minnesota Partnership for Biotechnology and Medical Genomics. Read more.  

College of Pharmacy and Masonic Cancer Center researchers identify genetic variation behind acute myeloid leukemia treatment success

Researchers from the College of Pharmacy and Medical School working within the Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, have partnered to identify genetic variations that may help signal which acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients will benefit or not benefit from one of the newest antileukemic agents. Read more.