A promising new treatment for neuroblastoma found by a smart algorithm

Using a computer algorithm, scientists at Uppsala University have identified a promising new treatment for neuroblastoma

Article Highlights

Using a computer algorithm, scientists at Uppsala University have identified a promising new treatment for neuroblastoma
This form of cancer in children, which occurs in specialised nerve cells in the sympathetic nervous system, may be life-threatening
This may result in a new form of treatment for children in whom the disease is severe or at an advanced stage
This research group has developed a new computer algorithm capable of combining massive quantities of genetic and pharmacological data (‘big data’) from European and American hospitals and universities
“We were astonished when the algorithm came up with completely new ideas for treatment"
The new treatments were investigated using cell samples from patients and in animal models, where they proved efficacious
The researchers have also developed the computer algorithm to enable it to be applied to other forms of cancer.
“Smart algorithms will be increasingly important in cancer research in the years ahead, since they can help us scientists to find unexpected angles. We’ve already started a major project here in Uppsala, in which several types of cancer in children and adults will be investigated this way. Our hope is that this can result in more unexpected treatment options,” Nelander says.

Tanner Ziarek New Berlin neuroblastoma fundraiser for 2-year-old boy
"Even if we don't raise any money for Tanner today, just seeing all of our friends and family, and seeing what everyone's done for us has been really phenomenal," said "Just havin ...
New Treatment for Deadly Childhood Cancer
New targeted treatment serves as an effective therapy option for a deadly childhood (pediatric) cancer known as neuroblastoma.
Novel targeted therapy may be an effective treatment option for neuroblastoma
New research from VCU Massey Cancer Center -; published Thursday in Cell Reports -; demonstrated that a novel targeted therapy could be an effective treatment option for a deadly pediatric cancer ...
Study at VCU Massey Cancer shows new potential treatment for rare but deadly childhood cancer
A molecule called SHP099, first discovered in 2016, showed the ability to disarm neuroblastoma, a cancer that is responsible for about 13% of all pediatric cancer deaths.
Novel targeted therapy could be an effective treatment option for deadly childhood cancer
New research from VCU Massey Cancer Center published Thursday in Cell Reports has demonstrated that a novel targeted therapy could be an effective treatment option for a deadly pediatric cancer known ...

Editorial comment – Child cancer month
This month is set aside for childhood cancer awareness. These children live among us. Some may be our neighbours and children of our friends. Given the intricacies of life, there are many things we ...
‘20 to 30 childhood cancer cases per year’
About 20 to 30 childhood cancer cases are diagnosed per year, says CWM Hospital paediatric registrar Dr Savenaca Seduadua. He said this during the launching of the Walk On Walk Strong (WOWS) Kids Fiji ...
New Treatment for Deadly Childhood Cancer
New targeted treatment serves as an effective therapy option for a deadly childhood (pediatric) cancer known as neuroblastoma.
Will Flewelling Still Helping Those Diagnosed With Cancer After His Death
Diagnosed with melanoma over three years ago, the late Ludington resident, Will Flewelling wanted to help families who were in similar situations as he was. Flewelling, a 2019 Ludington High School ...
Study at VCU Massey Cancer shows new potential treatment for rare but deadly childhood cancer
A molecule called SHP099, first discovered in 2016, showed the ability to disarm neuroblastoma, a cancer that is responsible for about 13% of all pediatric cancer deaths.