Cancer chromosome breakthrough
While tumours develop, cancer cells gain and lose so-called “chromosome arms”. This is common in cancers and can provide them with malignant properties, such as the ability to spread through the body. Dr Pascal Duijf and his research team studied chromosome arm abnormalities in over 23,000 cancers and 1000 cell lines, revealing that these abnormalities shape tumour development, cancer patient prognosis and how cancer cells respond to drugs. The research offers opportunities to develop and test new personalised treatments for 17 types of cancer.
A giant of cancer research recognised
Distinguished Professor Judith Clements AC, who led the cancer research program in the School of Biomedical Sciences from 1997 to 2014, was honoured as a Queensland Great in the 2019 Queensland Day celebrations.
Professor Clements was recognised with the prestigious award for her significant contributions to prostate and ovarian cancer research, and for developing cancer research infrastructure and capability.
