Medi Watch

Anti-cancer gene works in mice

Spanish researchers have identified a gene that's triggered 'spectacular ... near-complete regression' of cancer within days in mice. The p53 gene normally kills DNA-damaged cells, stopping cancer forming, WebMD reports. If it isn't working correctly, damaged cells can divide, paving the way for cancer. Manuel Serrano, of the Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, reviewed three recent studies on mice, in which the gene was activated. In two, cancer cells (including those of the liver, lymphs, muscle, fat and bone) disappeared within two to 10 days. In the third, progress of an aggressive lymphoma cancer was delayed, but not repressed. Serrano says such spectacular results are unlikely in humans, but 'this doesn't mean that such a therapy would be inefficient'.

Nanos nuke malignant cells

Meanwhile, Australian researchers say they have developed nano-technology that can deliver reduced but potent doses of drugs to cancer cells without the usual harmful side effects such as nausea and hair loss. The nano-cell (about one-fifth the size of a normal cell), developed by a Sydney-based biotechnology company, targets tumours and releases drugs directly into the malignant growth, AFP reports.

Virus alert stops tongues wagging

Oral sex has been linked to a rare form of throat cancer in men and women, via the human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes cervical cancer. Johns Hopkins University researchers also linked oral HPV to head and neck cancer, WebMD reports. Having multiple oral sex partners topped their list of practices associated with an increased risk of developing oropharyngeal cancer.

On your hike

Hiking in a country park is an effective alternative to chemical anti-depression treatments that could help millions of people and should be prescribed more often, a study by a British mental health group has found. So-called ecotherapy is 'a clinically valid treatment', says Mind's chief executive Paul Farmer. University of Essex studies show that even a 30-minute walk in a park decreases levels of depression, AFP reports.

Jason Sankey is a tennis professional