Gene mutations may predict melanoma response to immunotherapies

Melanoma patients whose tumors test positive for mutations in the NRAS gene were more likely to benefit from new immunotherapy drugs, according to a new study led by Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center (VICC) investigators.

VU study finds peanut consumption associated with decreased total mortality and mortality from cardiovascular diseases

If you’re looking for a simple way to lower your risk of dying from a heart attack, consider going nuts.

Cancer survival improvements vary by age, race

Improvements in cancer diagnosis and treatment have led to longer survival for most cancer patients in the United States. However, the improvement in survival was substantially greater among younger patients and those who are white in most of the cancers studied, according to new research by Vanderbilt University investigators.

National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute director to speak Feb. 25

Vitamin D found to have no impact on blood pressure

Despite prior epidemiologic and experimental data to the contrary, new research shows that vitamin D supplementation does not reduce blood pressure in individuals with prehypertension or stage I hypertension and vitamin D deficiency.

Workshop explores President’s Precision Medicine Initiative

The Precision Medicine Initiative is a national effort announced by President Obama during his State of the Union address to provide more effective treatment and prevention strategies for individuals by taking into account their unique genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors.