Abstract: The present invention provides various compositions and methods useful for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, particularly in subjects having certain mutations in the ERCC3 gene, such as the R109X mutation. In some embodiments such methods involve administration of a class of DNA alkylating agents known as Illudins to the subject.

Abstract: The invention relates to a handpiece for simultaneously irrigating and suctioning during an endodontic procedure, the handpiece comprising a handle portion comprising a first fluid line and a second fluid line passing into a head portion comprising an outlet for the first fluid line and an inlet for the second fluid line. The invention also relates to a method of performing a dental procedure such as a root canal. The handpiece permits the procedure of irrigating, cleansing and disinfection to be conducted by a single operator such as an endodontist, a dentist or even a dental student.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel SNP biomarkers and to panels of biomarkers that may be used in assessing the risk that a patient carrying a BRCA2 mutation will develop breast cancer. It is based, at least in part, on the identification of a SNP located at 6p24 in the human genome which is associated with breast cancer risk in subjects carrying the BRCA2 mutation but not in the general population. In specific non-limiting embodiments, a SNP from the 6p24 region may be used alone or together with one or more breast cancer risk biomarker to evaluate the likelihood that a subject will develop breast cancer.