Tag:

estrogen

Title: Breast Cancer Drug Extends Life Expectancy by Seven Years

by Priya Shah – Business Editor August 31, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Breakthrough Drug Extends Life Expectancy for Early-Stage Breast Cancer Patients, New Data Suggests

Jakarta, ⁢Indonesia – A new drug is showing remarkable promise in extending the⁤ lives of patients with early-stage breast cancer, potentially adding up to seven years to‍ their life expectancy. Pharmaceutical company ‌Lilly Oncology reports that late-stage clinical trial results for the drug, abemaciclib – sold under ⁤the brand name Verzenio⁤ – demonstrate a significant ⁤reduction in recurrence risk for certain types⁢ of breast cancer that ‌have spread to lymph nodes.The findings, ⁤initially reported by ScienceAlert on August 31, 2025, are based⁤ on a seven-year follow-up⁢ study. While the data is currently awaiting peer review, Lilly Oncology has committed to presenting the full results at an upcoming medical conference and has submitted the research for publication.

“This data‌ solidifies‌ Verzenio’s position as ⁣a standard of‌ care for high-risk patients with node-positive disease ⁤and underscores⁣ the urgent need to ensure all eligible patients⁢ have access to this ⁢treatment,” ⁣stated jacob Van Naarden, Director of ⁢Lilly Oncology.

Approved by the‌ U.S. Food⁣ and Drug management (FDA) in 2017,⁢ Verzenio ‍is an oral medication

August 31, 2025 0 comments

Health

Novel Long-term Findings for Post-HRT Fracture Risk

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor July 29, 2025

written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

HRT Halt May Temporarily Raise Fracture Risk

New Study Reveals Nuance in Post-Hormone Bone Health

Women discontinuing menopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) face a significant, albeit temporary, increase in fracture risk. This finding emerges from extensive new data, which also indicates a beneficial long-term effect on bone density for these individuals compared to those who never used HRT.

Understanding the Transition

A major analysis of millions of women’s health records, published in *The Lancet*, highlights a critical period after stopping HRT. Certified menopause specialist Dr. Deborah Kwolek emphasized the need for proactive bone health management during this phase.

“It’s reassuring that long term, you didn’t seem to be worse off if you had taken hormones in the past. And it reconfirms that when you first go off the hormones, you’re going to lose some benefit, which can translate into higher fracture risk and that needs attention.”

—Dr. Deborah Kwolek, Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School

Dr. Kwolek, who also leads the Mass General Women’s Health and Sex and Gender Medicine Program, called the findings a crucial reminder to prioritize bone health for women entering and navigating menopause.

Extensive Data Analysis

Researchers, spearheaded by Dr. Yana Vinogradova from the University of Nottingham, meticulously examined the records of over 648,000 women aged 40 and older. They compared these individuals to nearly 2.4 million women without fracture histories. The study tracked fracture risks for up to 25 years after hormone therapy cessation, considering estrogen and progestogen combinations.

Long-Term Benefits Emerge

The study’s authors noted that even after discontinuing HRT, women could experience substantially reduced fracture risk in older age. This positive outcome was observed even for those who used HRT for shorter durations, possibly due to concerns like breast cancer history.

These findings present a contrast to some previous research, such as the Women’s Health Initiative post-trial study, which did not identify an elevated fracture risk after HRT cessation. Estrogen is well-established as vital for bone health, particularly during the menopausal transition, by preventing bone loss.

Tailoring Care to Individual Risk

Dr. Kwolek stressed the importance of assessing a woman’s baseline fracture risk. For younger, healthier individuals, a minor increase in risk upon stopping HRT may be less concerning. However, for an older woman with existing osteoporosis, the impact could be more pronounced, potentially necessitating alternative bone-strengthening medications.

She cautioned against interpreting this temporary risk increase as a deterrent to starting HRT. The study’s strengths include its vast dataset and extended follow-up period, shedding light on an often-underestimated aspect of women’s healthcare. A 2023 study by the National Osteoporosis Foundation indicated that nearly half of all women over 50 will experience a fracture in their lifetime, highlighting the critical need for preventative strategies at all life stages.¹

Transition periods in women’s health, whether in primary care or specialized appointments, require greater attention than they currently receive, according to Dr. Kwolek.

¹ National Osteoporosis Foundation. (2023). *Osteoporosis Fast Facts*. Retrieved from [Insert actual URL for NOF Fast Facts if available, otherwise omit or replace with a generic placeholder like a government health site fact page]

July 29, 2025 0 comments

Health

Osteoblast estrogen receptor signaling found essential for bone integrity

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor July 12, 2025

written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Estrogen Receptor in Bone Cells Holds Key to Osteoporosis Therapies

New research illuminates how estrogen impacts bone health at the cellular level, opening doors to targeted treatments for osteoporosis, a disease affecting over 200 million people worldwide (International Osteoporosis Foundation).

Estrogen’s Bone-Building Role

Estrogen is known to promote bone growth and remodeling; when levels drop, particularly after menopause, bone weakening can occur. While hormone replacement therapy can help, systemic side effects limit broader use. Understanding exactly *how* estrogen protects bones is vital for developing safer, more targeted therapies.

The focus is on estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), a protein that, when bound by estrogen, triggers protective signals inside cells. Without this signaling, bones become fragile. Now, a team led by **Dr. Karin Horkeby** from the University of Gothenburg investigated how membrane-initiated ERα (mERα) signaling in specific bone cell types affects bone health.

Membrane Signaling Matters

The study, published in Bone Research, zeroed in on mERα signaling in osteoblast lineage cells—those responsible for building new bone. This particular pathway operates at the cell membrane, not within the cell’s nucleus. According to **Dr. Horkeby**, “Earlier research using mouse models suggested that this membrane pathway might be important for maintaining bone mass in a tissue-specific manner, but it was unclear which bone cells depend on this mERα signaling pathway.”

Mouse Model Breakthrough

Researchers created a unique mouse model to selectively deactivate mERα signaling in osteoblast lineage cells. Using high-resolution microcomputed tomography, they observed that mice lacking mERα signaling in these cells had significantly lower cortical bone mass in their tibia, femur, and vertebrae. Additional tests also showed weakened bones with increased fracture risk.

Further lab studies revealed that osteoblasts from these mice failed to mature properly, highlighting mERα signaling as essential for osteoblast maturation and maintaining the strength and density of cortical bone.

Blood-Forming Cells Not Key

The team also explored mERα signaling in hematopoietic (blood-forming) cells, including immune cells and osteoclasts (cells that break down bone). By transplanting bone marrow from mice with a mERα-blocking mutation into healthy mice, they deactivated mERα signaling in these cells.

In contrast to osteoblasts, disabling mERα signaling in blood-forming cells had no impact on bone mass or structure, indicating that this pathway is not crucial for bone mass maintenance in these cells.

Targeting the Outer Shell

While the loss of membrane signaling significantly affected cortical bone, its impact on trabecular bone (the spongy inner part) was minimal, except for a reduction in the tibia. This suggests that the membrane pathway may play a more specialized role in supporting the bone’s hard outer shell compared to its spongy interior.

Avenues for Safer Therapies

Importantly, disrupting mERα signaling in osteoblasts did not interfere with estrogen’s other functions in the body. The mice remained healthy, with normal body weight, sex hormone levels, and reproductive organ weights. This suggests that targeting mERα signaling in osteoblasts is unlikely to induce unwanted side effects.

“The results demonstrated that mERα signaling in osteoblast lineage cells plays a crucial role in regulating female cortical bone, while mERα signaling in hematopoietic cells of adult female mice is dispensable for bone regulation,” says **Dr. Horkeby**.

These insights provide a foundation for developing safer treatments that target specific bone cell pathways, capitalizing on estrogen’s bone-strengthening benefits while minimizing risks elsewhere in the body.

July 12, 2025 0 comments

Technology

Scientists discover on/off gene switches that could revolutionize personalized medicine

by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor June 23, 2025

written by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor

Scientists Uncover Genetic Switches Driving Disease Risk

Groundbreaking research has pinpointed 473 human genes acting like on/off switches, influencing disease susceptibility. These genetic regulators, modulated by DNA alterations and hormones, offer a new lens for understanding and treating various ailments.

Gene Discovery

A recent study published in Nature Communications unveiled 473 genes exhibiting distinct on-off behaviors, significantly impacting disease risks. Researchers analyzed methylomes, transcriptomes, and genomes from nearly a thousand individuals to identify these genes and their epigenetic and genetic controls.

The research identified that most of these switch-like genes are active in specific tissues. They’re linked to conditions like skin disorders, cancers, and immune and metabolic diseases. While epigenetic silencing explains the universal on/off behavior of these genes, tissue-specific patterns are influenced by hormone regulation.

“These findings provide a roadmap for personalized medicine, offering the potential to predict and manage disease risk,” the authors wrote in the study.

Hormonal Influences and Cancer Risks

The study identified a link between specific genes and hormonal imbalances. They discovered strong co-expression within tissues like the breast, colon, and vagina. These suggest that synchronized switching could be coordinated via tissue-specific “master regulators,” such as estrogen.

Scientists found that seven switch-like genes in the vagina are linked to postmenopausal vaginal atrophy caused by estrogen deficiency. Further experiments validated ALOX12 as a “passenger” gene, while KRT1 is a potential “driver.” Estrogen treatment reactivated five of these seven genes, suggesting potential therapeutic avenues.

Background and Significance

Early research, especially in Escherichia coli, demonstrated the switch-like nature of gene expression. The presence or absence of lactose was the determining factor for the production of specific metabolic enzymes. Over time, the human genome has proven to be more complex.

Gene expression in humans is far more intricate. It is affected by enhancer elements, epigenetic shifts, and interactions with transcription factors. Recent technological advancements in RNA sequencing have enabled the ability to distinguish between genes with continuous expression and those exhibiting true switch-like behavior.

Previous studies have associated bimodal gene expression mainly with cancer. Scientists noted that switch-like on/off states can lead to different disease outcomes. According to the American Cancer Society, in 2024, there will be an estimated 2 million new cancer cases diagnosed in the United States (ACS, 2024).

Future Implications

Researchers hypothesize that switch-like gene expression is widespread and often tissue-specific. Identifying these genes could aid in early diagnosis and improve our understanding of disease mechanisms. They focused on 27 tissues and 19,121 genes with sufficiently high expression.

A major strength is the multi-layered analysis combining genomes, transcriptomes, and methylomes from nearly a thousand individuals. The research underscores the importance of future studies that incorporate switch-like states into gene-environment studies.

June 23, 2025 0 comments

Health

BPA & Retinoic Acid: Brain Development Disrupted by Chemical Pairing

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor June 19, 2025

written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

“`html

BPA Chemical Exposure Linked to Neurodevelopmental Issues in new Study

Table of Contents

BPA Chemical Exposure Linked to Neurodevelopmental Issues in new Study

A groundbreaking study published in Environmental Health perspectives on May 13, 2025, reveals a concerning link between exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) and neurodevelopmental disorders. Researchers at Ritsumeikan University and Kyoto University in Japan discovered that BPA, when combined with retinoic acid (RA), can trigger abnormal brain and facial development. This finding raises concerns about the potential impact of everyday chemical exposure on fetal and infant health.

BPA and Retinoic Acid: A Perilous Combination

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic chemical widely used in the manufacturing of plastics and resins since the 1950s [[1]]. It’s found in numerous consumer products, including food containers, water bottles, and even the lining of metal cans. Retinoic acid (RA), a derivative of vitamin A, is crucial for organ development. While RA is naturally present in the body, it can also be found in low levels in water sources.

The study, led by Professor Tatsuyuki Takada, investigated the combined effects of BPA and RA on early neurodevelopment. The researchers exposed human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and zebrafish embryos to BPA and RA, both individually and in combination. The results were alarming.

Did You Know? The global plastics market is projected to reach $789.7 billion by 2031, highlighting the continued widespread use of chemicals like BPA ^[1].

Key Findings: Brain Abnormalities and Gene Overstimulation

The research team found that the combination of BPA and RA led to important abnormalities in brain and facial development. Specifically, the combination overstimulated RA-responsive genes, particularly a group known as HOX genes, which play a critical role in body patterning during development.

“When cells were exposed to BPA and RA together, it was observed that BPA potentiated the RA signaling pathway more than the normal condition (RA alone), leading to abnormalities in body patterning of critical organs during development.” – professor Tatsuyuki Takada, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University

These abnormalities included a rostral shift in brain region markers, duplication of key neurons (Mauthner cells), and craniofacial malformations in zebrafish embryos. The researchers suggest that these outcomes could be linked to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Implications for Public Health

This study highlights a previously unkown mechanism by which BPA can interfere with development. While BPA alone had no significant effect, its combination with RA caused a dramatic shift in gene expression and brain structure. This is particularly concerning given the widespread presence of both BPA and RA-like substances in the environment.

The researchers hope their findings will inspire stricter environmental health policies and further examination into chemical-nutrient interactions. They emphasize the potential risk posed by simultaneous exposure to BPA and RA for the safety of fetuses and pregnant women.

Pro Tip: Choose BPA-free products whenever possible,especially for items that come into contact with food and beverages. Look for recycling codes #1, #2, #4, #5, and #6 as these are generally BPA-free. Avoid #3 and #7, which may contain BPA or othre concerning chemicals.

Comparing BPA Alternatives

Material	BPA Content	Pros	Cons
Polycarbonate (PC)	Contains BPA	Durable, transparent	Leaches BPA, potential health risks
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)	BPA-Free	Recyclable, lightweight	Not suitable for high temperatures
Stainless Steel	BPA-Free	Durable, reusable	More expensive
Glass	BPA-Free	Reusable, inert	Fragile, heavier

The study underscores the importance of understanding how common chemicals interact with essential nutrients and their combined impact on human health. As Professor Takada concludes, “Our study reveals a causal link between chemical exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders, shedding light on the mechanisms of endocrine disruption.”

What steps do you take to minimize your exposure to BPA? How can we better protect vulnerable populations from these chemical exposures?

Evergreen Insights: Understanding BPA and Its Impact

Bisphenol A (BPA) has been a subject of concern for years due to its potential health effects.as an endocrine disruptor, it can mimic the body’s hormones and interfere with normal bodily functions. While some countries have banned or restricted the use of BPA in certain products, it remains prevalent in many everyday items.

The ongoing research into BPA’s effects highlights the need for continued vigilance and the development of safer alternatives. Consumers can play a role by making informed choices and supporting companies that prioritize chemical safety.

Frequently Asked Questions About BPA

What are some common sources of BPA exposure?: Common sources include food and beverage containers, thermal paper receipts, and some epoxy resins used in lining metal cans.
How can I identify products that contain BPA?: Look for products labeled as “BPA-free.” However, be aware that some products may not be explicitly labeled, so it’s essential to research

June 19, 2025 0 comments

Health

Statins could reduce breast cancer mortality by a fifth

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor June 16, 2025

written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Statins May Significantly Improve Breast Cancer Outcomes

A new analysis involving nearly 700,000 breast cancer cases reveals statins could greatly improve patient outcomes. This challenges previous beliefs about their limited function in cancer care, especially concerning mortality and recurrence.

Statin Impact on Breast Cancer

The research, published in the British Journal of Cancer, investigated the role of statins regarding breast cancer mortality and recurrence. Breast cancer, the most prevalent cancer type, is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. Older women, who are at increased risk, are often prescribed medications like statins to manage cardiovascular risks.

Prior research suggests that statins may be associated with decreased breast cancer recurrence and mortality. However, observed connections between recurrence, mortality, and risk factors could depend on several factors, such as immortal time bias (ITB), the status of estrogen receptors, and cancer stage. These could have altered the size and direction of observations in past meta-analyses without adjustment.

Study Details

The current study included 34 studies, encompassing 689,990 women with breast cancer. Of these, 21 and 20 focused on breast cancer death and recurrence outcomes, respectively. Researchers adjusted most studies for age-related mortality differences and cancer stage. The researchers also considered the timing of statin introduction and the type of statin used.

Besides inhibiting cholesterol synthesis, statins affect the cell cycle, suppressing proliferation and triggering apoptosis. They also impact immune responses. Moreover, the enzyme they inhibit is overexpressed in breast cancers.

Key Findings

The results show that statin usage correlated with a reduced risk of breast cancer death by about 20%. Similar effects were found for recurrence. Lipophilic statins demonstrated a more protective impact than hydrophilic statins against death, although not recurrence, in line with studies showing statins’ anti-proliferative effects on breast cancer cells.

Differences in subgroup outcomes were not statistically significant. This contradicts prior research suggesting, for example, that statins might be more effective in advanced breast cancer. Notably, the current study included few studies involving advanced-stage patients. Further research is necessary to validate this finding.

There was a suggestion of a more protective association in studies with ITB for breast cancer recurrence, but overall, ITB did not appear to significantly bias the main pooled estimates. Similarly, the association for recurrence appeared stronger in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) patients, consistent with prior findings. Researchers used analysis to assess publication bias, and the protective association remained significant after accounting for potential bias. Statin use appeared to protect against breast cancer recurrence by about 24%.

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer accounts for approximately 30% of all new cancer cases in women in the United States (Source). These findings underscore the importance of continued research in this area.

Conclusions

“Statin use, particularly lipophilic statin use, was associated with favorable outcomes for BCD and BCR.” The current study confirms prior analyses on the protective effects of statins on breast cancer mortality and recurrence rates.

This is the first meta-analysis to comprehensively assess effect modifiers, such as ITB and the timing of post-diagnostic statin use. The wide variation in methodologies and outcomes makes it difficult to understand whether the protective effects are due to statins or other factors, such as cardiovascular disease. More research is needed to determine which patient subgroups might benefit from statins as cancer treatment adjuvants.

June 16, 2025 0 comments

Newer Posts

Older Posts