Eminent researcher, educator to be MD Anderson’s fourth president
Summer 2011 : Another Key to Bladder Cancer Risk
Telomeres help tell the story
In his research, Jian Gu, Ph.D., has uncovered another key to bladder cancer risk. Photo: Wyatt McSpadden
A common genetic variation links to both bladder cancer risk and to the length of protective caps found on the ends of chromosomes.
These endings or tips, called telomeres, guard against damage of chromosomes and instability of genes that can lead to cancer and other diseases.
“Telomere length diminishes with age and short telomeres are associated with age-related diseases such as stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer,” says Jian Gu, Ph.D., assistant professor in MD Anderson’s Department of Epidemiology.
“Understanding the complex genetic regulation of telomere length and its relation to the causes of bladder and other types of cancer will help develop therapies or lifestyle changes that reduce cancer risk,” says senior author Xifeng Wu, M.D., Ph.D., professor and chair of MD Anderson’s Department of Epidemiology.
Reported in April 2011 at the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research.
More Stories From Conquest
John Mendelsohn's office
President’s home away from home
Mendelsohns take team approach to marriage, conquering cancer
Anne and John Mendelsohn look back on their team approach to marriage and conquering cancer, as his 15-year tenure as MD Anderson Cancer Center president is winding down.
A belief in possibility
By any measure, MD Anderson’s growth in size, stature and scientific progress during the past 15 years is staggering.
A golden beacon
When John Mendelsohn, M.D., returns to research at MD Anderson, he’ll open a new chapter in his career at a cancer center vastly different from the one he came to Houston to lead in 1996.
New approach to cancer treatment
Mendelsohn helps pave the way for personalized therapies
Growing our way to success
Mendelsohn stresses employee engagement and opportunities
Key to the future
Emphasis on learning prepares next generation of professionals
Mendelsohn's vision leads to expansion far beyond Houston
Eliminating cancer in Texas, the nation and the world always has been an institution-wide pursuit.
Mendelsohn's energy, creativity support record philanthropic efforts
Business entrepreneur and philanthropist Red McCombs of San Antonio tells a story about his family foundation’s $30 million gift to MD Anderson in 2005.
Nurses use evidence-based practice to improve care
This is the third installment of a three-part series on nursing that began in the fall 2010 issue of Conquest.
Cancer survivor enjoys hitting the ski slopes
Faith and spirituality weave themselves through all aspects of John Holland’s life — family man, business manager, community leader, outdoor enthusiast and cancer survivor.