Cedars-Sinai Breakthroughs: New Tools for Breast Cancer, Heart Failure Drug Advances, and Innovative Imaging Highlight Latest Research

Cedars-Sinai Research Advances

Breast Cancer Tool Accurately Predicts Patient Survival

Cedars-Sinai investigators validated the latest version of an online decision-making tool called PREDICT Breast version 3, confirming its accuracy for most U.S. breast cancer patients. Published in the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, the study found this version outperformed other available prediction tools but showed less accuracy in some demographic groups.

While previous versions were validated internationally, version 3 had only been tested in the UK before this study. Researchers discovered it predicts 10- and 15-year survival effectively for U.S. patients but is less precise for non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic Asian women compared to white women. This highlights the need for validating clinical tools across diverse populations to ensure equitable oncology care.

Preclinical Study: Drug Reverses Heart Failure

A synthetic RNA drug named TY1 reversed heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in laboratory mice, according to a study in Basic Research in Cardiology. HFpEF is a chronic condition where the heart muscle stiffens, impairing blood pumping despite normal ejection fraction. TY1 reduces inflammation associated with this condition.

Both injection and oral delivery of TY1 effectively reversed cardiac and systemic symptoms of HFpEF in mice. This offers a promising avenue for developing drugs targeting this common type of heart failure, which currently lacks effective treatments.

Cedars-Sinai Case Study: Advanced Technology Creates Images of Spinal Fracture

Researchers used MRI-generated synthetic CT imaging to guide minimally invasive surgery on a 14-year-old with pediatric spondylolysis, a stress fracture of the lower spine. Published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, the case demonstrated complete healing after three months without exposing the patient to ionizing radiation.

This technology converts MRI data into synthetic CT images, providing detailed views of bone and soft tissue without the risks of traditional CT scans. Its application in pediatric spine evaluation could reduce radiation exposure significantly and may become the standard for managing similar conditions.

Broken Heart Syndrome Survivors Could Be at Risk for Recurrence

Nearly 20% of patients who experience Takotsubo syndrome, or broken heart syndrome, may face recurrence years after their initial episode, according to findings published in JACC: Advances. This condition is triggered by severe stress causing temporary heart weakening.

The study reviewed data from 88 survivors and found recurrences typically occurred around 3.3 years later. Tracking these patients is crucial since repeated episodes can further weaken the heart. More research is needed to identify risk factors and develop prevention strategies.

Gene Therapy Alleviates Heart Failure in Preclinical Study

Gene therapy targeting the protein FoxO1 reduced heart muscle stiffening and arrhythmias in mice with HFpEF, the most common form of heart failure. Published in Nature Communications, the study revealed FoxO1 plays a key role in cardiac fibrosis and disrupted cell communication.

Suppressing FoxO1 signaling through gene therapy decreased fibrosis and irregular heartbeats, suggesting a new therapeutic approach for HFpEF, which lacks effective conventional treatments.

Cedars-Sinai Pharmacist-Led Clinics Reduce Medication Use

A pharmacist-led clinic at Cedars-Sinai reduced use of potentially inappropriate and high-risk medications among older adults with polypharmacy (taking five or more medications). The study, in Scientific Reports, showed a 28% decrease in inappropriate medication use and a 54% drop in drugs with strong anticholinergic effects.

Pharmacists reviewed patient medication lists, educated patients and caregivers, and advised physicians. This approach improved medication safety and accuracy, addressing risks like falls, cognitive impairment, and adverse drug reactions.

Preclinical Study: Preventing Chemotherapy-Related Liver Injury

Cedars-Sinai researchers found that the dietary supplement S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) may prevent liver injury caused by the chemotherapy regimen FOLFOX in colorectal cancer patients. Published in Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the study suggests SAMe could enable more patients to undergo life-extending liver surgery.

FOLFOX can shrink liver tumors but sometimes damages the liver, disqualifying patients from surgery. SAMe’s protective effect against this injury supports its potential role as a complementary treatment during chemotherapy.

For those interested in exploring advanced research methods and tools in healthcare, Complete AI Training offers courses tailored to scientific and research professionals.