Thyroid cancer is the commonest endocrine malignancy, and typically affects younger adults. Despite low mortality rates, local recurrence is not uncommon and re-operative surgery can cause significant morbidity. We are studying genetic variants in thyroid transcription factors associated with thyroid cancer predisposition. Our work will determine the mechanism of this association, and provide new strategies for early diagnosis and prevention of thyroid cancer.
Pyk2: A Central Mediator Of Gonadotropin Action In Ovarian Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$334,053.00
Summary
Ovarian cancer generally presents at an advanced stage where 5 yr survival is less than 25%. Elevated levels of specific hormones after menopause may increase the risk of this cancer. We have shown that a protein called Pyk2 is activated in response to these hormones and may have significant roles in ovarian cancer cell migration, invasion and proliferation. This project will investigate the role of this protein, with the goal of improved therapeutics for women with ovarian cancer.