Finding new ways to treat liver cancer
Background
Liver cancer incidence is increasing faster than any other cancer. In Australia, liver cancer deaths are estimated to increase by 85% to 3500 deaths in 2030 imposing a major medical and public health burden. When diagnosed at an early stage, treatments such as surgery or liver transplantation can be very successful. However, most patients are diagnosed at a later stage when the cancer is more difficult to treat, and outcomes are poor. There is an urgent need for new, more effective treatments for late-stage liver cancer.
The research
In this project, Professor Leedman and his team will investigate a new treatment approach that combines a new drug delivery method capable of specifically targeting the liver, with a new anticancer drug shown to ‘switch off’ cancer cells. Once this new treatment has been developed the team will test their approach in pre-clinical models in the lab. They’ll then conduct further pre-clinical tests to see how effective this new treatment is when combined with existing liver cancer treatments.
The impact
Professor Leedman and his team hope their findings will lead to a much-needed clinical trial for a new and effective treatment for late-stage liver cancer.
In Partnership with Box Rallies
This researcher was proudly funded through our partnership with Box Rallies (Shitbox Rally, Mystery Box Rally and Lunchbox Rally), an incredible organisation that has been raising funds for cancer research since 2009. To learn more or to take part in one of their unforgettable rallies, visit Box Rallies.