Researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have developed a promising new experimental cancer treatment using modified CAR T cells. Pre-clinical testing in mice showed the treatment successfully eliminated solid tumors and prevented their recurrence without the severe side effects typically associated with CAR T cell therapy. This breakthrough paves the way for human clinical trials, offering potential hope for a safer and more effective treatment option against solid cancers.
A new islet cell transplantation technique has shown promise in reversing type 1 diabetes. Researchers developed a method using bioengineered "scaffolds" derived from pig tissue, which house insulin-producing islet cells. These scaffolds are implanted under the skin of the recipient, protecting the cells from immune system attack without requiring long-term immunosuppression. In a small clinical trial, all six participants with severe type 1 diabetes were able to stop insulin injections for at least a year after the transplant, with one participant insulin-free for over two years. While larger trials are needed, this new method offers a potentially less invasive and safer alternative to traditional islet transplantation for achieving insulin independence in type 1 diabetes.
HN commenters express cautious optimism about the islet transplantation technique described in the linked article. Several point out that while promising, the need for immunosuppressants remains a significant hurdle, potentially introducing more risks than the disease itself for some patients. Some discuss the limitations of current immunosuppressant drugs and the potential for future advancements in that area to make this treatment more viable. Others highlight the small sample size of the study and the need for larger, longer-term trials to confirm these initial findings. A few commenters share personal experiences with Type 1 diabetes, emphasizing the impact the disease has on their lives and their hope for a true cure. Finally, some discuss the possibility of using stem cells as a source for islets, eliminating the need for donor organs.
Eighteen years after receiving an experimental CAR T-cell therapy for neuroblastoma as a child, Emily Whitehead remains cancer-free. This marks a significant milestone for the innovative treatment, which genetically modifies a patient's own immune cells to target and destroy cancer cells. Her sustained remission offers long-term evidence of the potential for CAR T-cell therapy to cure cancers, particularly in children, and highlights the enduring impact of this groundbreaking medical advancement.
HN commenters express cautious optimism about the woman's remission after 18 years, emphasizing that it's one case and doesn't guarantee a cure for neuroblastoma. Some discuss the broader potential of CAR T-cell therapy, while acknowledging its current limitations like cost and severe side effects. A few highlight the grueling nature of the treatment and the importance of continued research and improvement. One commenter points out that the original clinical trial had only three participants, further underscoring the need for larger studies to confirm the efficacy of this approach. Several users express hope that the technology becomes more accessible and affordable in the future.
Summary of Comments ( 55 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43199210
HN commenters express cautious optimism about the pre-clinical trial results of a new cancer treatment targeting the MCL-1 protein. Several highlight the difficulty of translating promising pre-clinical findings into effective human therapies, citing the complex and often unpredictable nature of cancer. Some question the specificity of the treatment and its potential for side effects given MCL-1's role in healthy cells. Others discuss the funding and development process for new cancer drugs, emphasizing the lengthy and expensive road to clinical trials and eventual approval. A few commenters share personal experiences with cancer and express hope for new treatment options. Overall, the sentiment is one of tempered excitement, acknowledging the early stage of the research while recognizing the potential significance of the findings.
The Hacker News post titled "World-first experimental cancer treatment paves way for clinical trial" generated several comments discussing the linked article about a new cancer treatment developed at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research. Many commenters expressed cautious optimism, acknowledging the early stage of the research while highlighting the potential significance of the findings.
A recurring theme in the comments was the need for further research and clinical trials to validate the treatment's efficacy and safety in humans. Several users pointed out that promising pre-clinical results don't always translate into successful human trials. One commenter emphasized the importance of rigorous testing and peer review, cautioning against overhyping preliminary findings.
Some commenters delved into the specifics of the treatment, which involves inhibiting the MCL-1 protein. They discussed the mechanism of action and potential advantages over existing cancer therapies. One commenter with apparent expertise in the field explained the role of MCL-1 in cancer cell survival and how targeting this protein could be a valuable strategy.
Others raised questions about the potential side effects of the treatment and the feasibility of large-scale production. One commenter expressed concerns about the general toxicity of inhibiting MCL-1, while another questioned the economic viability of manufacturing the treatment.
Some commenters shared personal anecdotes about their experiences with cancer, either as patients or caregivers. These comments provided a poignant reminder of the human impact of cancer and the urgent need for new and effective treatments.
Several users also discussed the challenges of funding and conducting cancer research. They highlighted the lengthy and costly process of bringing new treatments from the laboratory to the clinic.
Overall, the comments reflect a mix of hope, skepticism, and cautious optimism regarding the new cancer treatment. While acknowledging the exciting potential, many commenters emphasized the need for further research and rigorous testing before drawing definitive conclusions. The discussion also touched upon broader issues related to cancer research, including funding, drug development, and the emotional toll of the disease.