Monash Institute of Medical Research (MIMR)

Amounted Granted: $1.6million

For: Equipment & Infrastructure

Chief Investigators: Prof Bryan Williams, Prof Paul Hertzog, Prof Neil Watkins, Associate Prof Brendan Jenkins, Prof Gail Risbridger, Prof Matthew Gillespie, Prof Evan Simpson, Prof Peter Fuller

Project Description: This grant will enable the Monash Health Translation Precinct to establish the ARCF Centre for Cancer Genomic Medicine (ACCGM).

This Centre will allow the genetic profiling of specific cancers. This information is critical to the development and application of anticancer drugs tailored to individual patients.

The proposal requested funding for the introduction of state-of-the-art genomic technologies to facilitate cancer genomic research, including microRNA expression profiles and DNA methylation analysis critical for cancer epigenetic research. The requested funds would be used to establish a ‘Next-Generation’ Sequencing Centre.

By purchasing the latest in DNA sequencing technologies, called second and third generation platforms, the ACCGM will be able to introduce molecular-based based patient tumour profiles for everyday cancer patient management.

MIMR propose an integrated approach to cancer genomics focusing on the application of deep sequencing to the detailed description and integration of the genome, miRNome and epigenome in three common cancers, lung, breast and prostate. This data will be used to direct trials of new, targeted therapeutic agents.

The establishment of the ACCGM will allow a greater insight into the nature of the genes involved in cancer. This will be invaluable not only for cancer prognosis, but also for identifying patients that may or may not respond to new therapies. This means that patients will be not need to be exposed to drugs unnecessarily but may be candidates for new therapies.

Cancer types: lung, breast and prostate

Proposed Name of Facility: ACRF Centre for Cancer Genomic Medicine

Previous ACRF Grants: Nil