A Novel Mechanism For Sustained Proliferation Of Cancer Cells
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$565,881.00
Summary
We have found that some tumours use a previously unknown strategy for evading the normal limits on cellular proliferation. We will analyse the molecular details of this mechanism in order to (i) understand how it works, (ii) devise a diagnostic test, and (iii) lay the foundations for developing treatments that specifically target this type of cancer.
ALT-associated PML Bodies: Keys To The Biology And Treatment Of An Important Subset Of Cancers
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$813,614.00
Summary
Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT) is a molecular mechanism used by ~10% of cancers to sustain their relentless growth. ALT is common in sarcomas and brain tumours which are difficult to treat. ALT cancers contain nuclear structures called ALT-associated PML nuclear bodies (APBs) which may be part of the ALT machinery. This research will investigate characteristics of APBs and how they are formed, and will use this information to identify drugs to treat ALT tumours.