Clinical Proteomics
The clinical proteomics group (jointly led with Roz Banks) uses proteomic approaches to study tissues and bodily fluids from cancer patients in order to identify novel biomarkers or potential therapeutic targets. Recent successes include the identification of clinically useful markers associated with renal cancer and ovarian cancer and potential new targets for therapy.
Biotherapy
This group (jointly led with Richard Vile) focuses on the development of novel vaccines and cellular approaches to cancer, including Janet Brown, John Chester, Geoff Hall, Maria Marples and Alan Melcher who conduct clinical and translational research in renal, bladder, prostate, gynaecological and gastrointestinal cancers and melanoma. This Programme was scored at the International Forefront by CR-UK in 2005. Key approaches include using T cells to target viruses; DNA vaccines designed to produce an anti-cancer immunological response; the use of novel cytokines particularly interleukin-21, and targeted viral therapy.
Psychosocial Oncology
A CR-UK Programme was recently scored International Forefront and is now being taken over by Galina Velikova.
National Clinical Research Networks
The United Kingdom Clinical Research Network (UKCRN) coordinates and provides infrastructure for clinical trials and other well designed studies across the UK. Peter Selby is joint Director. This initiative is a central part of the new National Institute for Health Research, the Department of Health’s Research Strategy.
Clinical Trial Unit
The translational element of the cancer research activity within LIMM is supported by a well established and experienced clinical trials department, based in the newly built Bexley Wing. The St James Institute of Oncology brings together on one site, all the necessary services to support patients with cancer. The trials unit supports the early introduction of feasibility and Phase I clinical trials from the lab into the clinic. The unit also coordinates an impressive portfolio of clinical trials including a significant number of NCRN and Pharmaceutical sponsored studies in solid tumours.
Figure 1.
Banks RE, Tirukonda P, Taylor C, Hornigold N, Astuti D, Cohen D, Maher ER, Stanley AJ, Harnden P, Joyce A, Knowles M, Selby PJ. Genetic and epigenetic analysis of von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) gene alterations and relationship with clinical variables in sporadic renal cancer. Cancer Res 2006: 15; 66, 2000-11.
Banks RE, Stanley AJ, Cairns DA, Barrett JH, Clarke P, Thompson D, Selby PJ. Influences of blood sample processing on low-molecular-weight proteome identified by surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry. Clin Chem 2005: 51: 1637-49.
Velikova G, Booth L, Smith AB, Brown PM, Lynch P, Brown JM, Selby PJ. Measuring quality of life in routine oncology practice improves communication and patient well-being: a randomized controlled trial. J Clin Oncol 2004: 22; 4, 714-24.