Centre for Cancer Research

Institute Director, Professor Bryan Williams, heads the Centre for Cancer Research.  Scientists working in the Centre undertake basic research into the molecular mechanisms underlying the development, growth and metastasis of tumours, as well as the relationship between the innate immune system and cancer.  The discovery and development of novel therapeutics for the treatment of cancers is also an important aspect of the Centre's work.

Current key areas of interest are:

• Links between innate immunity, inflammatory processes and cancer
• Role of embryonic signalling pathways in cancer, and the targeting of these pathways with novel therapies
• Cell signalling pathways involved in tumour survival and growth, and the development of monoclonal antibodies to treat glioma and other cancers
• Role of integrin-linked kinase in cell migration and oncogenesis
• Molecular pathways involved in the metastasis of tumours, including prostate, bladder and breast cancers
• Developing novel imaging agents to monitor tumour growth and the response to treatment
• Determining protein structures using X-ray crystallography and synchrotron radiation techniques
• Gut development and regenration
• Drugs for the relief of pain

A Phase I Clinical Trials Program has been established at the Centre in collaboration with Southern Health, to conduct clinical trials of new cancer-targeting therapies.