Newswise — Following is a tip sheet of story ideas from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. To arrange interviews, please contact the individual listed. New Biomarker Identified in Breast and Prostate Cancers Holds Promise for Treating Disease Cedars-Sinai researchers have identified a novel genetic biomarker responsible for the progression of many breast and prostate cancers. The finding could bolster efforts to better identify patients who respond to certain types of chemotherapy drugs that attack the most aggressive forms of cancer. The newly identified biomarker – diaphanous- related formin-3 or DIAPH3 – participates in a protein interaction that makes cells rigid. The study found that when this biomarker is lost or lowered, cells become “deformable,” squeezing through tissue spaces, causing disease growth or progression. This phenomenon is known as an amoeboid phenotype.CONTACT: Cara Martinez, 310-423-7798; Email [email protected].

Cedars-Sinai Expands Footprint With Leased Office Space at Runway Playa Vista Cedars-Sinai is enhancing its footprint in Southern California with a new regional office at Runway Playa Vista. Cedars-Sinai has signed an 11-year lease for the entire 32,000-square-foot commercial office space in the community’s central retail district, with plans to open by the end of next year. The new space at Runway will enable Cedars-Sinai to extend its world-class primary care and specialty healthcare services to people living and working throughout the adjacent communities of Culver City, Mar Vista, Marina del Rey, Playa del Rey, Playa Vista and Westchester. The new site is part of Cedars-Sinai’s ongoing efforts to create convenient access to its high-quality services close to where people live and work.CONTACT: Duke Helfand, 310-248-6608; Email [email protected].

Los Angeles Lakers' President and Owner Donates $1.5M for Surgical Oncology Research at Cedars-SinaiJeanie Buss, president and part owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, has donated $1.5 million to establish the Dr. Jerry H. Buss Surgical Oncology Fellowship. The gift is a tribute to her beloved father and also honors close friend and family physician, Allan W. Silberman, MD, PhD. Jerry Buss was an investor, philanthropist and owner of professional sports franchises. In 1979, Buss became majority owner of the Los Angeles Lakers. Under his leadership, the team won 10 NBA championships. Jeanie was inspired to endow the fellowship by her parents' courageous battles with cancer. Both were patients of Silberman. Her mother, JoAnn, is a cancer survivor and remains under Silberman's care. "Philanthropy is about addressing the needs of a community. We can only be successful when everyone is thriving," Buss said.Contact: Michael Miller, 323-866-7784; Email: [email protected]

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