Tag: breast cancer

#SynchroLightAt75 – Grating interferometry and phase-contrast imaging

#SynchroLightAt75 – Grating interferometry and phase-contrast imaging

The development of X-ray phase-contrast imaging at Paul Scherrer Institute PSI tells a story of how basic research can quickly lead to practical applications. Grating interferometry was pioneered by PSI scientists as a technique for characterizing the X-ray wave front at synchrotron sources, such as the Swiss Light Source SLS. This development enhanced the quality of X-ray images. Soon after, it began to be used for phase-contrast imaging of soft matter-like tissue, and was subsequently brought to X-ray lab sources as well. Currently, it is under development for mammography with improved contrast for soft tissue and the micro-calcifications that are markers for benign and malignant tissue alterations.

Read more about this development via these links: Phase contrast improves mammography and Phase-contrast X-ray imaging for advanced breast cancer detection

Image: Marco Stampanoni pioneered the technique of phase-contrast X-ray imaging, which enables higher resolution mammograms that can help detect breast cancer earlier

Credit: Paul Scherrer Institute / Markus Fischer

Effective new target for breast cancer treatment

Effective new target for breast cancer treatment

An international study led by scientists at the University of Sussex has provided strong evidence for an effective new target for breast cancer treatment. The five-year study, called “The structure-function relationship of oncogenic LMTK3” published in Science Advances, involved researchers from seven institutions across three countries including Diamond. 

The study suggests that LMTK3 inhibitors could be effectively used for the treatment of breast cancer, and potentially other types of cancer. The structure of oncogenic LMTK3 (Lemur Tyrosine Kinase 3 ) determines its role and functions allowing drug inhibition as a new therapeutic strategy.

It is hoped the research will allow the further development and optimisation of LMTK3 inhibitors as a new type of orally-administered anticancer drug for patients and have potential value not only for breast cancer patients but also for lung, stomach, thyroid and bladder cancer patients.

Read more on the Diamond Light Source website

Image: Crystal structure of LMTK3
Credit: University of Sussex