Identifying Cell Type Specific Biomarkers Of Recurrent Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma And Mapping Cancer-stroma Interactions Using Single Cell Biology And Cell-to-cell Communication Networks
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$892,858.00
Summary
Cancer is a major cause of death in Australia. Despite advances in our understanding of the mutations that occur and the sets of genes expressed in cancer we have a major gap in our understanding of what is happening within tumours. Using new single cell technology we will generate new molecular portraits of cancers that give us understanding of the sets of genes expressed on individual cancer cells, the normal cells within a tumour and how they interact with cancer cells to form a tumour.
Single Cell Genetic Profiling To Reveal Molecular And Cellular Changes In BRCA Preneoplastic Tissue
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$202,959.00
Summary
The initial molecular and cellular events that lead to breast cancer in women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations are unknown. We will use state-of-the-art genomic tools (Single Cell RNA-seq and whole genome sequencing) to determine how cancer begins in absence of normal BRCA genes. Single cell genomic profiling of stem and daughter cells from pre-cancerous breast tissue will be used to identify early-indicator molecular changes that could be exploited in the clinic.
Investigation Of The Molecular Basis Of Human Nevogenesis And Melanoma Initiation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$598,220.00
Summary
The number of moles and lifetime exposure to solar UV are the major risk factors in melanoma development. A genetic association between the IRF4 gene and mole number and melanoma susceptibility has been reported. We propose that changes in the function of this gene will impact on the behaviour of melanocytes/melanoma cells, their response to UV radiation and interaction with surrounding cells. Understanding the function of this gene will provide crucial insight into the initiation of melanoma.
Genetic Programs Orchestrated By AP-1 Transcription Factors In Colorectal Cancer Progression
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$599,941.00
Summary
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. About half of all patients diagnosed with the disease die as a result of its spread in the body. This project will investigate the role that a specific DNA-binding protein plays in orchestrating gene expression programs required for CRCs to spread. The research will provide new insights into underlying mechanisms of CRC progression as well as identify new therapeutic targets for aggressive forms of the disease.