Microparticles As Novel Biomarkers In Liver Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$85,833.00
Summary
No current highly sensitive or specific diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) exists. We will identify novel nucleic acid signatures in the circulation of patients with HCC through Next Generation Sequencing. Plasma microvesicles will be isolated and their contents analyzed to identify novel genetic biomarkers and fusion gene constructs specific for HCC. Resultant panel of novel biomarkers for HCC will be validated on the Australian STREP cohort of HCC patients.
Harnessing Endogenous L1-mediated Mutagenesis To Elucidate New Candidate Genes For Liver Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$632,656.00
Summary
Retrotransposons are mobile genes that copy-and-paste themselves in our genome. Previously thought to represent “junk DNA”, retrotransposons are increasingly recognised to play major roles in biology. In a recent publication in Cell, we found that retrotransposons were highly active in some types of liver cancer, mutating key genes required to block tumour formation. In the current study, we will determine in greater depth how, and how often, these genes are involved in other types of liver canc ....Retrotransposons are mobile genes that copy-and-paste themselves in our genome. Previously thought to represent “junk DNA”, retrotransposons are increasingly recognised to play major roles in biology. In a recent publication in Cell, we found that retrotransposons were highly active in some types of liver cancer, mutating key genes required to block tumour formation. In the current study, we will determine in greater depth how, and how often, these genes are involved in other types of liver cancer.Read moreRead less
Incorporating Genomics Into Breast Cancer Management
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$128,224.00
Summary
This study will investigate use of genomic sequencing in advanced and early breast cancer. We will characterise genetic characteristics of patients who benefit from two different therapies in the metastatic setting. We will use circulating tumour DNA analysis to monitor for and genetically characterise minimal residual disease (MRD) in patients apparently cured by initial therapy. This will thus identify potential therapeutic targets for preventing MRD progressing to metastatic disease.
Population Genetics And Functional Genomics Approaches To Improve Outcomes For Patients With Colorectal Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$466,492.00
Summary
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer related death in Australia, and the 5-year survival rate for metastatic disease remains below 10%. Over the next 4 years, my translational research program will focus on improving patient outcomes in four ways: Discovery of inherited variants affecting CRC risk and progression, tumour molecular classification, discovery of markers for prognosis and drug response, and elucidation of the molecular mechanisms driving CRC development.
Translational Genomics And Combinatorial Drug Discovery To Improve Outcomes For Patients With Colorectal Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$640,210.00
Summary
Bowel cancer is a major public health burden in Australia. Over the next 5 years, A/Prof Sieber’s research will focus on understanding the molecular pathology of bowel cancer and how this determines the course of disease and response to therapy. Integrated genomic, functional and drug discovery studies will provide significant new insights into fundamental tumour biology and open up new avenues for diagnosis and treatment.
Stratification Of Therapies In HNSCC Through Discovery Of Molecular Signatures
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$852,600.00
Summary
Human head and neck cancer is a devastating disease with poor survival rates. Using a unique mouse model, we have now uncovered novel genetic defects that trigger cancer development. These defects are also evident in human cancers. This proposal will utilize this mouse model to explore new treatment strategies based on targeting the genetic defect. Ultimately we anticipate that this will translate into personalized therapies that will favourably alter the course of this cancer.