Cancer
We all know people who have been touched by cancer. Cancer is a genetic disease in that it arises from changes in the genetic make-up of cells, which lead to abnormal cell growth and eventual spread to other parts of the body; a process known as metastasis. In addition, some cancers run in families and are clearly inherited, while others are caused by factors in our environment interacting with our genetic susceptibilities. If we avoid other misfortunes, we have a 1 in 4 chance of developing cancer during our life. Fortunately, many forms of cancer can be treated successfully if detected early.
The evolution of a normal cell into a cancer cell involves the subversion of the cell’s control of its growth i.e, alterations in cancer cell biology and the escape of such cells from the normal surveillance of the body’s immune system. A major challenge is the understanding of how this occurs. Some scientists at QIMR are investigating the genetic mechanisms involved in cancer and how our lifestyle may modify, cause or prevent genetic damage. One important approach to understanding cancer is the development of mouse models of cancer, several of which have now been developed at the QIMR. Another new approach is the use of microarrays to look at changes in gene expression in cancer cells in order to identify new cancer genes, some of which may become targets for novel treatments.
For information on QIMR research programs in specific types of cancers, select from the following:
Over twenty laboratories at QIMR
conduct research extending from the laboratory bench through to the clinic. The development
of the Clive Berghofer Cancer Research Centre has expanded the QIMR’s research capabilities
and facilitates initiatives in population
health and clinical trials.