Dr. Cenci's research centers on understanding the roles of specific proteins in seminoma, a type of testicular cancer. She investigates how proteins like SPTBN1 and PTTG1 interact, leading to more invasive cancerous behavior. Additionally, her work explores the impact of gluten on stem cells in patients with celiac disease, emphasizing how a gluten-free diet can help heal the intestine and improve patient outcomes.
Key findings
Lower levels of SPTBN1 in seminoma are linked to more invasive cancer, with tumors showing higher nuclear PTTG1 and significantly lower SPTBN1 levels.
PTTG1 has been shown to reduce E-Cadherin levels in seminoma tumors, which are crucial for cell adhesion, contributing to tumor invasiveness.
In celiac disease patients, stem cells in the blood increased after starting a gluten-free diet, indicating a response to dietary changes, with improvements in health and intestinal appearance after two years.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Cenci study testicular cancer?
Yes, Dr. Cenci focuses on testicular cancer, specifically seminoma, and how certain proteins affect its progression.
What treatments has Dr. Cenci researched?
Her research helps identify potential treatments based on protein levels in seminoma, particularly involving SPTBN1 and PTTG1.
Is Dr. Cenci's work relevant to celiac disease?
Yes, she studies the effects of gluten on stem cells in celiac disease and emphasizes the importance of a gluten-free diet for improving patient health.
Publications in plain English
Clusters of Anthropometric Features in Colorectal Cancer Patients with Synchronous Metastases and Their Association with Overall Survival and RAS Mutation.
2026
Journal of gastrointestinal cancer
Formica V, Morelli C, Rofei M, Calegari MA, Riondino S +10 more
The Clinical Relevance of Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Hallmarks: A Cut-Off-Based Approach in Healthy and Cancerous Cell Lines.
2025
International journal of molecular sciences
Rapanotti MC, Cugini E, Scioli MG, Cenci T, Anzillotti S +5 more
Plain English This study looked at how certain cellular changes, known as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), help cancer cells spread from their original tumors to other parts of the body. Researchers found that specific markers in cells, like E-cadherin and vascular endothelial cadherin, could clearly differentiate between primary (original) and metastatic (spread) cancer cells. This is important because understanding these markers can help identify how aggressive a cancer is and how it might respond to treatments.
Who this helps: This helps doctors better assess cancer severity and tailor treatments for patients.
Impact of Instrumentation Technique on Endodontic Treatment Quality in Curved Molars: A Retrospective Analysis.
2025
Australian endodontic journal : the journal of the Australian Society of Endodontology Inc
Vieira CC, Zajkowski LA, Prado DA, de Almeida Gomes F, Kopper PMP +5 more
Plain English This study looked at how different methods of cleaning and filling curved molars affected the quality of root canal treatments done by dental students. Out of 188 treatments, those using manual tools faced more problems like underfilling and poor density, while those using a specific powered technique had issues with overfilling. These findings matter because they highlight that using the right technique can reduce the chances of complications during dental work.
Who this helps: This helps dental students and their instructors in improving treatment outcomes for patients.
SPOP and MMR/MSI alterations in prostate cancer: relationship with PD-L1, TILs and AR expression.
2025
Pathologica
Fiorentino V, Germanà E, Ricciardi G, Capodimonti S, Cenci T +10 more
Plain English This study examined the genetic changes in prostate cancer to see how they relate to the effectiveness of a specific treatment, targeting PD-L1, which helps tumors evade the immune system. Researchers analyzed 153 patients and found that 9.15% had mutations in the SPOP gene, which were linked to increased levels of PD-L1 and lower immune cell presence in tumors. These findings suggest that understanding these genetic markers can help doctors choose the right patients for immunotherapy, which is crucial in improving treatment outcomes.
Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced prostate cancer by guiding doctors in selecting the most effective treatments.
How different attributes are weighted in professionals' decision-making in Pediatric Dentistry-a protocol for guiding discrete choice experiment focused on shortening the evidence-based practice implementation for dental care.
Plain English This study explored how dental professionals make decisions about treatments for children by examining what factors they consider most important. The researchers used a method called a Discrete Choice Experiment to understand these choices better and found that considering scientific evidence and specific treatment attributes could help streamline the incorporation of the latest research into everyday dental practice. This matters because by identifying what influences dental professionals' decisions, strategies can be developed to make it easier for them to use effective treatments, ultimately improving patient care.
Who this helps: This helps dental professionals and ultimately benefits children receiving dental care.
Circulating Tumor Cells: Origin, Role, Current Applications, and Future Perspectives for Personalized Medicine.
2024
Biomedicines
Rapanotti MC, Cenci T, Scioli MG, Cugini E, Anzillotti S +10 more
Plain English This study focused on circulating tumor cells (CTCs), which are cells that break away from tumors and travel in the bloodstream. Researchers found that CTCs provide important information about cancer progression, treatment responses, and the likelihood of the disease coming back, especially in patients with melanoma, lung, breast, and colorectal cancers. By improving how these cells are isolated and studied, CTCs can help doctors personalize treatment plans and monitor patients more effectively.
Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing treatment for various types of cancer.
Tailored therapy for recurrent glioblastoma: report of a personalized molecular approach.
2023
Journal of neurosurgical sciences
D'Alessandris QG, Martini M, Cenci T, DI Bonaventura R, Lauretti L +5 more
Plain English This study looked at a personalized treatment plan for patients with recurrent glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer. Researchers treated 34 patients based on specific molecular markers and found that 50% responded positively to treatment, with the best response—75%—in a particular group of patients. Overall, the tailored approach led to better survival rates compared to previous studies that didn’t match treatments to patients' molecular profiles.
Who this helps: Patients with recurrent glioblastoma can benefit from more effective, personalized treatment options.
Telomerase inhibition in malignant gliomas: a systematic review.
2023
Expert reviews in molecular medicine
D'Alessandris QG, Battistelli M, Pennisi G, Offi M, Martini M +6 more
Plain English This study looked at the use of telomerase inhibition as a treatment for glioblastoma (GBM), a common and aggressive brain tumor that currently has a median survival rate of only 14 to 18 months. Researchers reviewed available studies on this approach, finding that while telomerase is often active in GBM and could be targeted for treatment, there are very few clinical applications of this strategy so far. Understanding and developing telomerase inhibition could lead to new treatment options for GBM, which is urgently needed due to the tumor's complexity and poor survival rates.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients with glioblastoma and their doctors looking for new treatment options.
Untailored vs. Gender- and Body-Mass-Index-Tailored Skeletal Muscle Mass Index (SMI) to Assess Sarcopenia in Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC).
2023
Cancers
Morelli C, Formica V, Bossi P, Rofei M, Guerriero S +11 more
Plain English This study looked at how measuring muscle mass affects the survival of patients with advanced head and neck cancer undergoing treatment. Researchers found that a tailored assessment of muscle mass, based on a person's gender and weight, was more effective than a standard measurement. For example, the best cutoff for males was 34.37, while for females it was higher at 46.02, significantly improving the ability to predict patient outcomes.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with head and neck cancer and their healthcare providers by providing a more accurate way to assess their health during treatment.
DNA methylation analysis in urinary samples: A useful method to predict the risk of neoplastic recurrence in patients with urothelial carcinoma of the bladder in the high-risk group.
2023
Cancer cytopathology
Pierconti F, Rossi ED, Cenci T, Carlino A, Fiorentino V +7 more
Plain English This study looked at a test called Bladder EpiCheck to see if it can help predict if patients with early-stage bladder cancer will experience a recurrence. Researchers followed 290 patients and found that those with higher EpiCheck scores had a greater chance of confirmed cancer diagnoses—specifically, 90% of patients with scores over 90 had a confirmed diagnosis. This is important because it offers a reliable way to monitor high-risk patients for cancer recurrence, helping improve their management and treatment decisions.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with bladder cancer and their doctors by providing better tools for monitoring and treatment.
Paths of Evolution of Progressive Anaplastic Meningiomas: A Clinical and Molecular Pathology Study.
2023
Journal of personalized medicine
Di Bonaventura R, Lauretti L, Martini M, Cenci T, Di Monaco G +10 more
Plain English The study focused on Grade 3 anaplastic meningiomas, which are aggressive brain tumors. Researchers examined clinical and molecular data from patients to understand how these tumors change over time. They discovered that patients with higher levels of certain proteins, specifically Sox2, had much poorer survival rates compared to those with another protein, EGFRvIII. This finding is important because it helps pinpoint the biological markers that can guide more tailored treatments for these tumors.
Who this helps: This helps patients with aggressive meningiomas and their doctors by identifying potential targets for personalized therapies.
SPTBN1 Mediates the Cytoplasmic Constraint of PTTG1, Impairing Its Oncogenic Activity in Human Seminoma.
2023
International journal of molecular sciences
Teveroni E, Di Nicuolo F, Vergani E, Oliva A, Vodola EP +11 more
Plain English This study looked at how a protein called SPTBN1 affects another protein, PTTG1, which is linked to testicular cancer known as seminoma. Researchers found that when SPTBN1 levels are lower, more PTTG1 moves to the nucleus of the cell, making the cancer more invasive. Specifically, seminomas with higher levels of nuclear PTTG1 had significantly lower levels of SPTBN1, indicating that SPTBN1 helps keep PTTG1 in the cytoplasm and less active in promoting cancer growth.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with seminoma by potentially improving treatment strategies based on SPTBN1 and PTTG1 levels.
Dissecting Stemness in Aggressive Intracranial Meningiomas: Prognostic Role of SOX2 Expression.
2022
International journal of molecular sciences
Di Bonaventura R, Martini M, Cenci T, Caccavella VM, Barresi V +6 more
Plain English This study examined the role of a protein called SOX2 in meningiomas, which are brain tumors that can sometimes behave aggressively, even when they appear benign at first. Researchers looked at samples from 87 patients and found that higher levels of SOX2 were linked to worse outcomes, including a greater risk of the tumors coming back after treatment. This finding is important because it helps doctors predict how aggressive a tumor might be and can guide decisions on additional treatments after surgery.
Who this helps: This helps patients with meningiomas and their doctors by providing crucial information for treatment planning.
A Computational Framework for Comprehensive Genomic Profiling in Solid Cancers: The Analytical Performance of a High-Throughput Assay for Small and Copy Number Variants.
2022
Cancers
Giacò L, Palluzzi F, Guido D, Nero C, Giacomini F +11 more
Plain English This study looked at a new way to analyze cancer genetics using a test called the TruSight Oncology 500 Assay, which can identify various genetic changes in cancer from 10 different cancer types. They tested 71 DNA and 64 RNA samples and found that their method matched existing standard tests almost perfectly, with very few errors, which means it can reliably be used for screening patients. This is important because it helps doctors better understand a patient's cancer and determine the right treatment more effectively.
Who this helps: Patients with cancer and their doctors benefit from this advanced genetic testing.
The bladder epicheck test and cytology in the follow-up of patients with non-muscle-invasive high grade bladder carcinoma.
2022
Urologic oncology
Pierconti F, Martini M, Cenci T, Fiorentino V, Gianfrancesco LD +6 more
Plain English This study looked at a new bladder test called the Bladder EpiCheck, which checks for cancer in urine by analyzing DNA changes. Researchers found that after three months, the Bladder EpiCheck was just as good as traditional urine tests for detecting cancer, but better for specific types, with a specificity of 96.3% compared to 90.4% for the standard test in patients with certain types of bladder cancer. This matters because a more accurate test can lead to better monitoring and treatment for patients with bladder cancer.
Who this helps: Patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.
Molecular Analysis in a Glioblastoma Cohort-Results of a Prospective Analysis.
2022
Journal of personalized medicine
Lauretti L, Cenci T, Montano N, Offi M, Giordano M +9 more
Plain English This study examined the molecular characteristics of 355 patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, focusing on factors like a specific protein called EGFRvIII. The researchers found that having a change in the MGMT gene was linked to slightly better survival rates, but EGFRvIII did not indicate a worse prognosis overall. Remarkably, female patients tended to have better outcomes than males.
Who this helps: This information benefits patients and doctors by providing clearer insights into factors affecting glioblastoma outcomes.
Clinical and NGS predictors of response to regorafenib in recurrent glioblastoma.
2022
Scientific reports
Chiesa S, Mangraviti A, Martini M, Cenci T, Mazzarella C +15 more
Plain English This study examined the factors that predict how well patients with recurrent glioblastoma (a type of brain cancer) respond to a treatment called regorafenib. Out of 30 patients, only 30% were progression-free after six months, and the average survival time was about 7.5 months. The research found that mutations in the MAPK pathway led to a poorer response to the treatment, indicating that patients with this mutation had a shorter progression-free survival of 2.5 months compared to 4.5 months for those with EGFR mutations.
Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors in making more informed treatment choices based on genetic testing results.
PTTG1/ZEB1 Axis Regulates E-Cadherin Expression in Human Seminoma.
2022
Cancers
Teveroni E, Di Nicuolo F, Vergani E, Bianchetti G, Bruno C +9 more
Plain English This study looked at how two proteins, PTTG1 and ZEB1, affect a process in seminoma, a type of testicular cancer. Researchers found that PTTG1 lowers the expression of a protein called E-Cadherin, which is important for cell adhesion, making the cancer cells more invasive. They discovered that E-Cadherin levels were significantly lower in seminoma tumors, which could indicate that monitoring PTTG1 levels might help doctors better understand and manage this cancer.
Who this helps: This helps doctors and clinicians working with patients diagnosed with seminoma.
Methylation study of the Paris system for reporting urinary (TPS) categories.
2021
Journal of clinical pathology
Pierconti F, Martini M, Cenci T, Fiorentino V, Sacco E +6 more
Plain English This study focused on a urinary test called Bladder EpiCheck, which helps detect bladder tumors by analyzing specific molecular markers. Researchers examined 374 patients with high-grade non-muscle invasive bladder cancer and found that Bladder EpiCheck demonstrated high accuracy: it correctly identified 98% of high-grade tumors and had a 100% specificity, meaning it rarely produced false positives. This research matters because it highlights the test's potential to improve diagnosis accuracy, helping to distinguish between different types of bladder cancer.
Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing bladder cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Discordance of KRAS Mutational Status between Primary Tumors and Liver Metastases in Colorectal Cancer: Impact on Long-Term Survival Following Radical Resection.
2021
Cancers
Ardito F, Razionale F, Salvatore L, Cenci T, Vellone M +6 more
Plain English This study looked at whether the mutation status of the KRAS gene in primary colorectal tumors matches that in liver metastases of the same tumors. The researchers found that the mutation status was not the same in about 16% of cases, and this discrepancy was more common within the first six months after diagnosis. Patients whose primary tumors had a normal KRAS gene but whose liver metastases had a mutation experienced worse survival outcomes.
Who this helps: This information benefits doctors treating patients with metastatic colorectal cancer by informing their treatment decisions.
The combination cytology/epichek test in non muscle invasive bladder carcinoma follow-up: Effective tool or useless expence?
2021
Urologic oncology
Pierconti F, Martini M, Fiorentino V, Cenci T, Capodimonti S +6 more
Plain English This study looked at whether combining a urine test called the Bladder EpiCheck with regular bladder cancer tests can help in monitoring patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. Researchers followed 375 patients for a year and found that the Bladder EpiCheck test was useful for identifying high-grade bladder cancer in some cases, specifically when urine tests showed abnormal cells that were suspicious for high-grade cancer. However, in cases where tests indicated no cancer, using the Bladder EpiCheck test was unnecessary and didn’t provide any additional benefit.
Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients by improving follow-up care for bladder cancer while also reducing unnecessary costs and tests.
How limited molecular testing can also offer diagnostic and prognostic evaluation of thyroid nodules processed with liquid-based cytology: Role of TERT promoter and BRAF V600E mutation analysis.
2021
Cancer cytopathology
Dell'Aquila M, Fiorentino V, Martini M, Capodimonti S, Cenci T +7 more
Plain English This study looked at how analyzing specific genetic mutations in thyroid nodules can help diagnose and predict the behavior of thyroid cancer. Researchers tested 356 samples and found that 10.4% had the BRAF V600E mutation, and 1.1% had TERT promoter mutations; those with TERT mutations were linked to more advanced cancer stages and lymph node spread. This is important because it means that even with limited testing, doctors can better understand which thyroid cancers might be more aggressive and need closer monitoring.
Who this helps: Patients with thyroid nodules and their doctors.
Upper urothelial tract high-grade carcinoma: comparison of urine cytology and DNA methylation analysis in urinary samples.
2021
Human pathology
Pierconti F, Martini M, Fiorentino V, Cenci T, Racioppi M +6 more
Plain English This study focused on finding effective ways to detect high-grade upper urothelial tract carcinoma (UTUC), a type of urinary cancer. Researchers tested urine samples from 82 patients and found that a DNA methylation analysis was very accurate, with a detection rate of around 97.4%, compared to only 59-70.5% for standard urine cytology tests. This is important because a more accurate detection method can lead to better patient outcomes and help doctors make more informed treatment decisions.
Who this helps: This benefits patients suspected of having UTUC and their doctors.
c-MYC Expression Is a Possible Keystone in the Colorectal Cancer Resistance to EGFR Inhibitors.
2020
Cancers
Strippoli A, Cocomazzi A, Basso M, Cenci T, Ricci R +9 more
Plain English This study looked at how the protein c-MYC affects the ability of certain colorectal cancer patients to respond to a treatment called anti-EGFR therapy. Researchers found that patients with higher levels of c-MYC had a significantly shorter time before their disease progressed (PFS) and overall survival (OS), specifically, those with high c-MYC had worse outcomes compared to those with low levels. This matters because understanding the role of c-MYC may help doctors find new ways to target and overcome treatment resistance in these patients.
Who this helps: This helps patients with metastatic colorectal cancer and their doctors by identifying potential new targets for treatment.
Preferential MGMT methylation could predispose a subset of KIT/PDGFRA-WT GISTs, including SDH-deficient ones, to respond to alkylating agents.
2019
Clinical epigenetics
Ricci R, Martini M, Ravegnini G, Cenci T, Milione M +12 more
Plain English This study looked at a type of stomach tumor called gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) to see if a specific DNA change, known as MGMT methylation, is more common in tumors that lack a certain protein (SDH-deficient tumors). The researchers found that 67% of the SDH-deficient tumors had this methylation, compared to just 15% of tumors that did not lack the protein. This is important because it may indicate that these tumors could respond better to certain treatments (alkylating agents), which have not been effective in the past.
Who this helps: Patients with SDH-deficient gastrointestinal stromal tumors.
Protein Expression of PTTG-1, OCT-4, and KLF-4 in Seminoma: A Pilot Study.
2019
Frontiers in endocrinology
Grande G, Milardi D, Martini M, Cenci T, Gulino G +4 more
Plain English This study looked at specific proteins in seminomas, which are the most common type of testicular cancer in young men. The researchers found that all tested tumors strongly expressed a protein called OCT4, with many cells also showing another protein, KLF4, while some tumor cells at the edge expressed both KLF4 and a third protein, PTTG1. Understanding these protein expressions could pave the way for new treatments that target these specific cancer cells.
Who this helps: This helps patients with seminoma by potentially leading to new treatment options.
Plain English This study looked at the SOCS3 protein in prostate cancer biopsies from 65 patients to see if its levels could help identify more aggressive cancer cases. The researchers found that when SOCS3 was either not present or only weakly present in less than half of the cancer cells, it was linked to a higher risk of worse outcomes, including a lower chance of surviving without the cancer progressing. Specifically, the study showed that SOCS3 negativity was associated with a significantly worse prognosis (P=0.0001), indicating that measuring this protein could be a simpler and cheaper way to identify serious cases of prostate cancer.
Who this helps: This helps doctors better diagnose and treat patients with prostate cancer.
To Obtain More With Less: Cytologic Samples With Ancillary Molecular Techniques-The Useful Role of Liquid-Based Cytology.
2018
Archives of pathology & laboratory medicine
Martini M, Capodimonti S, Cenci T, Bilotta M, Fadda G +2 more
Plain English This study looked at a method called liquid-based cytology (LBC) used for diagnosing diseases through detailed analysis of cell samples. The researchers found that LBC provided reliable results and made it easier to perform additional tests on leftover material from the samples, allowing for better decision-making for patient care. By improving the reliability and information gained from these tests, LBC can help target the best treatment options for patients.
Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing diagnostic procedures for various diseases.
Morphology combined with ancillary techniques: An algorithm approach for thyroid nodules.
2018
Cytopathology : official journal of the British Society for Clinical Cytology
Rossi ED, Martini M, Capodimonti S, Cenci T, Bilotta M +5 more
Plain English This study examined how combining different methods can improve the diagnosis of thyroid nodules, specifically focusing on a type known as follicular neoplasms (FNs). Researchers followed 37 patients with FNs and found that using imaging and genetic tests increased the accuracy of determining whether these nodules are cancerous. For example, the combination of certain features linked to a genetic mutation (BRAF) showed a 100% risk of malignancy in some cases, which helps ensure that only necessary surgeries are performed.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with thyroid nodules by reducing unnecessary surgeries and providing more accurate diagnoses.
Eight-year survival of a recurrent glioblastoma patient treated with molecularly tailored therapy: a case report.
2018
Acta neurochirurgica
D'Alessandris QG, Montano N, Martini M, Cenci T, Lauretti L +6 more
Plain English This study looked at a 66-year-old man with recurrent glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, who had already undergone three surgeries. He was treated with two drugs, bevacizumab and erlotinib, specifically chosen based on the unique characteristics of his tumor, which led to an impressive 51 months without the cancer worsening. This finding highlights the importance of using personalized treatment based on individual tumor profiles for better outcomes in patients with recurrent glioblastoma.
Who this helps: This helps patients with recurrent glioblastoma and their doctors in choosing more effective therapies.
Morphological features that can predict BRAF-mutated carcinoma in paediatric thyroid cytology.
2017
Cytopathology : official journal of the British Society for Clinical Cytology
Rossi ED, Bizzarro T, Martini M, Capodimonti S, Cenci T +3 more
Plain English This study examined thyroid cancer samples from 119 children to see if certain cell features could predict the presence of a common genetic mutation (BRAF) associated with more aggressive cancer types. The researchers found that 100% of the samples with the BRAF mutation exhibited specific cell characteristics, like plump cells and sickle-shaped nuclei, while these features were absent in samples without the mutation. This is important because identifying these traits can help doctors better manage and treat aggressive thyroid cancers in children.
Who this helps: This helps doctors and pediatric patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
The role of miRNAs in the evaluation of follicular thyroid neoplasms: an overview of literature.
2017
Journal of the American Society of Cytopathology
Rossi ED, Martini M, Capodimonti S, Cenci T, Larocca LM
Plain English This study looked at how specific microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in thyroid tumors and whether they can help doctors tell the difference between benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) cases. Researchers found that different types of thyroid tumors show distinct patterns of miRNA expressions, which can be helpful in assessing the risk of malignancy, especially in uncertain cases. The ability to more accurately identify cancerous thyroid nodules could lead to better patient management and treatment decisions.
Who this helps: Patients with thyroid nodules and their doctors.
SOCS3 Immunohistochemical Expression Seems to Support the 2005 and 2014 International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) Modified Gleason Grading System.
2017
The Prostate
Pierconti F, Martini M, Cenci T, Petrone GL, Ricci R +3 more
Plain English This study examined a protein called SOCS3 in prostate cancer samples to see how it relates to different grading systems for prostate cancer established by the International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP). Researchers found that 73% of samples with Gleason grade 3 cancer showed strong SOCS3 expression, compared to only 24.6% of samples with Gleason grade 4 cancer. This is significant because it helps differentiate between aggressive and less aggressive forms of prostate cancer, aiding in better diagnosis and treatment planning.
Who this helps: This helps patients with prostate cancer by improving the accuracy of their diagnosis and treatment options.
The clinical value of patient-derived glioblastoma tumorspheres in predicting treatment response.
2017
Neuro-oncology
D'Alessandris QG, Biffoni M, Martini M, Runci D, Buccarelli M +8 more
Plain English Researchers studied glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, by examining tumors taken from patients. They found that the growth and characteristics of these tumorspheres, which are model cultures of the cancer cells, could predict patient outcomes: tumorspheres that grew rapidly were linked to shorter survival times. For instance, tumorspheres showed significant resistance to treatments, and those sensitive to the drug temozolomide were associated with longer survival.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients with glioblastoma by improving treatment strategies based on tumor responses.
A phase 2 study of temozolomide in pretreated metastatic colorectal cancer with MGMT promoter methylation.
2017
British journal of cancer
Calegari MA, Inno A, Monterisi S, Orlandi A, Santini D +11 more
Plain English This study looked at how well the drug temozolomide works for patients with advanced colorectal cancer who have already had multiple treatments and have a specific genetic marker called MGMT promoter methylation. Of the 41 patients treated, only 10% had a positive response to the drug, and on average, patients lived for about 5.1 months after treatment. This is important because it helps doctors understand the limited effectiveness of temozolomide for this group of cancer patients and highlights the need for more research.
Who this helps: This helps patients with refractory colorectal cancer and their healthcare providers.
The role of thyroid FNA cytology in pediatric malignant lesions: An overview of the literature.
2017
Cancer cytopathology
Rossi ED, Martini M, Cenci T, Capodimonti S, Larocca LM
Plain English This research paper looks at how doctors use fine-needle aspiration (FNA) to diagnose thyroid nodules in children. It found that although thyroid cancer is rare in kids, its rates are rising—especially in teenagers—with 90% of cases being a type called papillary thyroid cancer. Understanding how to accurately identify different types of thyroid cancer is important because some forms can be more aggressive and might need more surgeries.
Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients and their doctors by improving cancer diagnosis and treatment options.
Discordance in RAS mutations between primary colon tumor and metastases: a real event or a matter of methodology?
2017
The International journal of biological markers
De Stefano A, Rosanova M, Malapelle U, Martini M, De Falco S +7 more
Plain English This study looked at differences in genetic mutations in a patient's colon tumor and its liver metastases. Initially, the primary tumor showed a specific mutation in the KRAS gene, but the liver metastases did not, which caused confusion. After using a more precise testing method, researchers confirmed that the liver metastases did, in fact, have the same mutation as the primary tumor, highlighting the importance of using accurate testing methods to determine the right treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer.
Who this helps: This helps patients with metastatic colorectal cancer by ensuring they receive the correct treatments based on their tumor's genetic profile.
KRAS Exon 2 Mutations as Prognostic Indicators in Advanced Colorectal Cancer in Clinical Practice: A Mono-Institutional Study.
2016
Molecular diagnosis & therapy
Dadduzio V, Basso M, Rossi S, Cenci T, Capodimonti S +7 more
Plain English This study looked at patients with advanced colorectal cancer who have specific KRAS gene mutations to see how these mutations affect their survival rates. Out of 620 patients, 218 (about 35%) had KRAS exon 2 mutations, with a similar median survival of around 32 months for those with codon 12 mutations and 31 months for codon 13 mutations. The findings show that having these mutations does not significantly change overall survival compared to non-mutated patients, which is important for doctors in predicting patient outcomes and choosing treatments.
Who this helps: This information benefits patients with advanced colorectal cancer and their doctors.
The evaluation of miRNAs on thyroid FNAC: the promising role of miR-375 in follicular neoplasms.
2016
Endocrine
Rossi ED, Bizzarro T, Martini M, Capodimonti S, Sarti D +4 more
Plain English This study looked at how well a specific type of test could help identify different kinds of thyroid nodules, especially those that might be cancerous. Researchers focused on a molecule called miR-375 and found that it was present in high levels in 97.1% of malignant nodules, which helped accurately identify 95% of cases with cancer. This is important because it could improve how doctors distinguish between benign and malignant thyroid nodules, leading to better patient management.
Who this helps: This helps patients with thyroid nodules and doctors diagnosing these conditions.
Divergent gastrointestinal stromal tumors in syndromic settings.
2016
Cancer genetics
Ricci R, Martini M, Cenci T, Riccioni ME, Maria G +2 more
Plain English This study looked at rare cases of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) that happen in people with certain genetic conditions. The researchers found that in one patient with a genetic mutation, the GIST had unusual features because it had a different mutation than typically expected, which can affect treatment decisions. Understanding these variations is important for managing these tumors effectively, especially when dealing with high-risk cases.
Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and patients with genetic conditions that predispose them to GISTs.
Fractographical Analysis and Biomechanical Considerations of a Tooth Restored With Intracanal Fiber Post: Report of the Fracture and Importance of the Fiber Arrangements.
2016
Operative dentistry
Wandscher VF, Bergoli CD, Limberger IF, Cenci TP, Baldissara P +1 more
Plain English This study examined how a specific type of dental restoration—a glass fiber post with parallel fibers—affects the strength of a repaired front tooth. Researchers found that the restored tooth experienced different types of stresses, with shear stress being particularly high in the center of the restoration, which can lead to fractures. Specifically, they noted that when there wasn’t enough remaining tooth structure, the likelihood of the restoration failing increased significantly.
Who this helps: This research benefits dentists and patients with repaired front teeth, providing insights on improving restoration designs.
Pituitary-tumour-transforming-gene 1 expression in testicular cancer.
2015
Andrologia
Pierconti F, Milardi D, Martini M, Grande G, Cenci T +5 more
Plain English This study looked at a gene called PTTG1 in testicular cancer to understand how it behaves in different types of tumors. Researchers analyzed tissue samples from 83 patients and found that PTTG1 was present in various locations within cancer cells; for example, in seminomas, it was mostly found in the nucleus at the edges and more in the cytoplasm in the center. Understanding how PTTG1 acts in these tumors is important because it might play a role in how testicular cancer develops and progresses.
Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and researchers working to improve treatment options for testicular cancer patients.
Uncommon BRAF mutations in the follicular variant of thyroid papillary carcinoma: New insights.
2015
Cancer cytopathology
Rossi ED, Martini M, Bizzarro T, Capodimonti S, Cenci T +4 more
Plain English This study looked at different types of BRAF mutations in thyroid cancer, specifically in the follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (FVPC) and common papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Researchers examined 150 samples, finding that BRAF(V600E) mutations were present in 66.6% of PTCs but only in 17.4% of FVPCs, with other rare mutations confined to FVPCs. These findings are important because they suggest that uncommon BRAF mutations are associated with less aggressive disease, providing new insight into how doctors can better classify and treat this type of thyroid cancer.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with thyroid cancer and their doctors by improving diagnosis and treatment options.
Circulating hematopoietic stem cells and putative intestinal stem cells in coeliac disease.
2015
Journal of translational medicine
Piscaglia AC, Rutella S, Laterza L, Cesario V, Campanale M +9 more
Plain English This study looked at how gluten affects certain stem cells in the blood and intestines of people with celiac disease, a condition triggered by eating gluten. Researchers found that patients with celiac disease had more stem cells in their blood initially, which increased even more after one week on a gluten-free diet but then decreased over time. After two years on the diet, all patients felt better, and their intestine appeared normal again.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients with celiac disease by highlighting the importance of a gluten-free diet for healing their intestines.
Analysis of immunocytochemical and molecular BRAF expression in thyroid carcinomas: a cytohistologic institutional experience.
2014
Cancer cytopathology
Rossi ED, Martini M, Capodimonti S, Cenci T, Straccia P +7 more
Plain English This study looked at how well a new antibody test called VE1 can detect a specific mutation in the BRAF gene associated with papillary thyroid carcinoma, a common type of thyroid cancer. Out of 55 patient samples, the findings revealed that 37 had the BRAF mutation, and the antibody test identified 30 positive samples, but it missed some cases that traditional DNA testing caught. This is important because it shows that while the VE1 test could be a useful first step in diagnosing this cancer, it may not be as reliable as DNA testing in all cases.
Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients by providing more options for diagnosing thyroid cancer.
Chemotherapy of skull base chordoma tailored on responsiveness of patient-derived tumor cells to rapamycin.
2013
Neoplasia (New York, N.Y.)
Ricci-Vitiani L, Runci D, D'Alessandris QG, Cenci T, Martini M +6 more
Plain English Researchers studied a rare type of tumor called a skull base chordoma, which is hard to treat because of its location and resistance to standard therapies. They created a lab model using cells from a patient’s tumor and found that a drug called rapamycin could significantly slow tumor growth. After 10 months of treatment, the patient showed about a six-fold reduction in tumor growth on imaging tests, indicating that personalized chemotherapy based on individual tumor cell behavior can be effective.
Who this helps: This helps patients with skull base chordomas.
Dietary exposure to trace elements and radionuclides: the methodology of the Italian Total Diet Study 2012-2014.
2013
Annali dell'Istituto superiore di sanita
D'Amato M, Turrini A, Aureli F, Moracci G, Raggi A +7 more
Plain English This study examined how much of certain harmful elements and radioactive materials people in Italy consume through their diet. Researchers looked at elements like lead and mercury, as well as radionuclides, using a detailed method to collect and analyze various food samples across different age groups and regions in Italy. They aimed to understand dietary exposure levels better, which is crucial for public health, especially since people had varying levels of exposure depending on their age and location.
Who this helps: This helps the general public by informing health policies and dietary guidelines.