of what we do - preservation of molecular information. The iconic double helix, together with the overlapping outlines gives a sense of movement; reflecting our de- termination to remain progressive and help shape the future of medical research. Also, the team’s robust resolve to deliver the best quality samples for research is captured in the striking lines and resilient diamond shape at the centre of the piece. Firing on all fronts, we now have two Phleboto- mists on board, enabling us to re-commence blood collections for our Healthy Volunteer Bank. Healthy Volunteer blood is important in research as it provides a baseline comparison from which to determine where the differences lie in a sample carrying a disease. It is these differences which are then targeted as new
treatments and diagnostic methods are developed.
DO YOU WANT TO HELP US FIND A CURE FOR CANCER? We are looking for healthy volunteers who: - Have not had cancer - Have not donated to our bank before - Are over the age of 18 (no upper age limit) - Have not been hospitalised in the last 6 months If you are interested in participating please contact us on 9926 4771 to arrange a time.
This project has been approved by the Northern Sydney Local Health District Human Research Ethics Committee Version 1. 3 rd July 2014
understand which new treatment might be most effective. How does it work? Our genes are made up of DNA, which is the chemical structure that determines many of our human characteristics, from eye colour to height. It could also hold the link to understanding why some people develop certain diseases and others don’t; or explain why some people respond well to a treatment while others may experience side effects, or no response at all. By studying the genetic makeup of tumours, the INOVATe team hope to better classify ovarian cancer into different molecular subtypes and determine which chemotherapeutics and/or molecular target drugs have the strongest chance of the best outcome for women with ovarian cancer. In partnership with INOVATe, the Kolling Institute Tumour Bank collects tumour and blood samples from consented patients from which these genetic studies can be performed. This
then allows the patients to be matched with the most appropriate clinical trials for their unique molecular markers. In the long term, the ultimate goal is to use the knowledge gained to personalise treatment and improve the overall outcomes for women with ovarian cancer. We would like to acknowledge the clinical team at Royal North Shore Hospital and The Mater involved in this work: Gynaecological Surgeons Drs Greg Gard, Sue Valmadre and A/Prof Russell Hogg; Clinical Nurse Consultant Jayne Maidens; Medical Oncologists Drs Sally Baron-Hay and Connie Diakos; and Pathologist Dr David Nevell.
INOVATe
Recent research has identified a number of molecular events in ovarian cancer cells that can be targeted with newly developed therapies. A team of clinicians and scientists led by Prof Anna DeFazio and funded by the Cancer Institute NSW, are personalising treatment selection by developing a panel of screening tests that will help doctors more precisely tailor treatment plans for women with ovarian cancer. Our local project team is led by Prof Deborah Marsh and gynaecological surgeon Dr Greg Gard. Within the last decade, rapid progress has been made in the creation of numerous targeted treatments for various cancer types with great improvement seen in survival for patients with melanoma and women with breast cancer. The INOVATe Study is a state-wide collaboration across several NSW hospitals, universities and research institutes, determining the genetic nature of ovarian tumours to
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