Primary central nervous system (CNS) tumours, arising in the brain and spinal cord, are the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children less than 15 years of age. Medulloblastomas and other primitive neuroectodermal tumours (PNETs) are the most common form of primary childhood brain tumours, accounting for 25-30% of cases. Despite notable recent advances in our understanding of the molecular genetic basis of malignancies, the pathogenesis of CNS PNETs remains obscure. To address this prob ....Primary central nervous system (CNS) tumours, arising in the brain and spinal cord, are the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children less than 15 years of age. Medulloblastomas and other primitive neuroectodermal tumours (PNETs) are the most common form of primary childhood brain tumours, accounting for 25-30% of cases. Despite notable recent advances in our understanding of the molecular genetic basis of malignancies, the pathogenesis of CNS PNETs remains obscure. To address this problem, we propose to apply a novel combinatorial approach for the identification of PNET tumour suppressor genes utilising both representational difference analysis (RDA) and microarray expression profiling. Data from this study will help to elucidate the molecular pathways that are compromised in the initiation and growth of PNETs. This information will have direct implications for the development of improved diagnostic and prognostic indicators necessary for the design of more effective therapeutic strategies for the treatment of PNET patients.Read moreRead less
Understanding The Molecular Heterogeneity Of Response And Resistance To Anti-HER2-ErbB2 Agents In Breast Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$373,173.00
Summary
A revolution in cancer care will take place in the next decade as we aim to individualize treatment for each patient. A subtype of breast cancer relies on a growth factor called HER2 for growth. Treatments that block HER2 are highly effective and have less side effects than chemotherapy. My study aims to further understand of the biology of this subtype of breast cancer and action of anti-HER2 agents as this will allow us to treat this aggressive type of breast cancer more effectively.
Defining Steps In The Molecular Pathogenesis Of Lung Cancer Using Immortalized Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$374,344.00
Summary
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death worldwide and is caused by abnormalities in DNA. This project aims to further our understanding of this disease by altering known cancer-related genes and studying their effect on lung cancer development. This project also aims to identify novel genes in lung cancer as well as tumour expression profiles which can predict response to chemotherapy agents. In summary, this research will identify new gene targets for therapeutic agents.
Genetic And Epigenetic Biomarkers In High Risk Colorectal Cancer: Predicting Risk Of Recurrence
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$64,631.00
Summary
The main aim of this project is to define the prognostic and predictive significance of specific genetic events in patients with high risk (stage III) colorectal cancer. We attempt to explore the differences between primary tumours from patients with and without recurrence at three years. Data from the project will then be used to define a limited set of biomarkers which will aid in clinical decisions regarding the need for adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery for high risk colorectal cancer.
Further Characterisation Of The Role Of HSSB1 In DNA Repair And Breast Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$85,526.00
Summary
To date, all breast cancer predisposition genes identified play an important role in the DNA damage repair pathway. We have characterised a new protein designated as hSSB1, which plays a crucial role in the maintenance of genomic stability by protecting us from DNA damage. Significantly, evidence strongly suggests an interaction of hSSB1 with the breast cancer susceptibility protein BRCA2. This project will investigate the role of hSSB1 in breast cancer predisposition and DNA damage repair.