Targeting aggressive cancers that use the Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT) mechanism
Background
Precision medicine is revolutionising cancer treatment, yet many cancer patients miss out on its benefits because of a lack of identifiable mutations or molecular abnormalities that can be targeted with the available treatments.
One common trait of cancer cells is their ability to multiply endlessly, known as cancer cell replicative immortality. This happens because of the abnormal activation of mechanisms that elongate telomeres, which are the structures that protect the ends of chromosomes.
This activation of telomere maintenance mechanisms (TMM) exposes a vulnerability, which presents an opportunity for developing new therapies.
About the Project
This project will provide a path toward new therapeutics that kill cancer cells by targeting the molecular mechanisms driving cancer cell replicative immortality.
Associate Professor MacKenzie and her team will define specific drug targets and develop diagnostic methods for therapeutic application in cancers that relay on a specific telomere maintenance mechanism referred to as Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT).
ALT occurs in about 10% of all cancers, particularly more aggressive tumour types, but is over-represented in rare cancer types that mostly affect young patients, including sarcomas of bone and soft tissues, paediatric gliomas and neuroblastoma.
Through this project, new targeted therapies will be developed, aiming to fill the treatment gaps for rare and aggressive cancers with activated ALT.
Impact
If successful, this project could lead to the development of new drugs that specifically target cancers with activated ALT, providing better treatment options for patients.
By improving our understanding of ALT and identifying biomarkers, we can personalise treatment for patients, leading to better cancer outcomes.
Additionally, the data generated from this project will significantly benefit future research on rare and aggressive cancers, as well as aiding in the development of effective treatments.
Overall, this project has the potential to make a significant impact on cancer treatment, especially for those with rare and aggressive cancers.