Through innovative research on cancer treatment and prevention, members of the UBC Faculty of Medicine are attacking cancer on several fronts. Building from a rich tradition of discovery science, our people and partners are taking hold of new technologies and are exploring new areas of research to advance knowledge and improve care.
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Discoveries
- 2017: New subtypes of ovarian cancer discovered
- 2017: Drug created from malaria parasite stops cancer in mice
- 2016: Gene linked to aggressive prostate cancer found
- 2016: Genetic mutations of rare gastric cancer found
- 2016: Human clinical trials start for new prostate cancer drug
- 2015: Scientists grow breast cancer from a single cancer cell
Spotlight
Low-cost ‘cancer probe’ could spot deadly melanoma early
The laser probe can distinguish between harmless moles and cancerous ones in a matter of seconds.
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New tumour test could guide personalized treatment for children with cancer
Scientists at UBC and BC Children’s Hospital are the first in Canada to use a new test for pediatric tumour analysis.
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Bringing a new cancer drug to market
Two decades ago, Poul Sorensen made a discovery that would lead to the development of a cancer drug that shrinks many different kinds of tumours.
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Novel discovery could lead to new cancer, autoimmune disease therapy
International research project co-led by UBC Canada 150 Research Chair.
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Rare but recurring mutations discovered in ER-positive breast cancer
The uncommon mutations were associated with early relapse and death, and thus stand out as therapeutic targets.
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UBC bestows national prizes on Canadian health science pioneers
Andrew Krahn, Bruce McManus, Kullervo Hynynen and Martin Gleave are being honoured for their accomplishments in heart health, brain health and cancer.
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HPV test better than Pap test at detecting cervical precancer
A study of 19,000 women in British Columbia showed that the HPV test finds precancer sooner.
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“Arms race” between cancer and immune system revealed
The study led by MD/PhD student Allen Zhang will assist the design of new immunotherapy trials.
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UBC leads Canadian pancreatic cancer research initiative
The $5 million project will sequence metastatic pancreatic tumours of 400 patients, looking to see if the primary cancers genetically differ from metastatic cancers.
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An under-the-radar immune cell shows potential in fight against cancer
ILC2 cells were discovered as a major player in asthma. Wilf Jefferies found they may also stop cancer from metastasizing.
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