MIT Spinout Strand Therapeutics Raises $153 Million To Make Cancerous Tumors Light Up https://t.co/dOLJj9LxqE https://t.co/dOLJj9LxqE ...

Cancer Research & Treatment Landscape - The field of oncology is moving away from the idea of a universal cure for cancer, recognizing it as a collection of hundreds of different conditions [8][9] - Cancer cells exhibit hallmarks, traits that distinguish them from normal cells, including ignoring signals to stop growing and altering their metabolism [16][17] - Targeted therapies are being developed to address specific genetic mutations in cancer cells, with some achieving cure status for certain cancers like chronic myelogenous leukemia using drugs like Gleevec since 2001 [20][21][22] - Angiogenesis inhibitors, drugs that block the formation of blood vessels towards tumors, are showing promise as a cure for some cancers [22][23] - Immunotherapies, including checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell therapy, are being developed to activate the immune system against cancer [23][24] Importance of Understanding Cancer - Understanding the nuances of cancer is crucial for promoting early detection through screenings for breast, cervical, and colon cancer [29] - Public understanding is essential to support funding for innovative research and policies that advance cancer treatment [30] Clinical & Personal Perspective - Cancer treatment outcomes vary significantly, highlighting the need for personalized approaches [27][28] - The speaker reflects on the challenges of communicating a cancer diagnosis and the desire for better treatments and outcomes [1][31][32] - A patient, Bonnie, lost 40 lbs and underwent multiple surgeries, ultimately passing away due to an aggressive form of cancer [5][31]