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Implementation of DNA Methylation Array Profiling in Pediatric Central Nervous System Tumors: The AIM BRAIN Project: An Australian and New Zealand Children's Haematology/Oncology Group StudyDNA methylation array profiling for classifying pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors is a valuable adjunct to histopathology. However, unbiased prospective and interlaboratory validation studies have been lacking. The AIM BRAIN diagnostic trial involving 11 pediatric cancer centers in Australia and New Zealand.
Research
BRAF-mediated brain tumors in adults and children: A review and the Australian and New Zealand experienceThe mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway signaling pathway is one of the most commonly mutated pathways in human cancers. In particular, BRAF alterations result in constitutive activation of the rapidly accelerating fibrosarcoma-extracellular signal-regulated kinase-MAPK significant pathway, leading to cellular proliferation, survival, and dedifferentiation.
Research
‘Torn in two’: Experiences of Mothers Who Are Pregnant when Their Child Is Diagnosed With CancerMothers of children diagnosed with cancer have been shown to experience high rates of psychological distress and poor physical health. Pregnancy further increases the healthcare needs of mothers due to the marked physiological changes and psychological adaptations.
Research
Systems pharmacogenomics identifies novel targets and clinically actionable therapeutics for medulloblastomaMedulloblastoma is the most common malignant paediatric brain tumour and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality and morbidity. Existing treatment protocols are aggressive in nature resulting in significant neurological, intellectual and physical disabilities for the children undergoing treatment. Thus, there is an urgent need for improved, targeted therapies that minimize these harmful side effects.
Research
Veliparib Is an Effective Radiosensitizing Agent in a Preclinical Model of MedulloblastomaMedulloblastoma is the most common malignant childhood brain tumor, and 5-year overall survival rates are as low as 40% depending on molecular subtype, with new therapies critically important. As radiotherapy and chemotherapy act through the induction of DNA damage, the sensitization of cancer cells through the inhibition of DNA damage repair pathways is a potential therapeutic strategy.
Research
Blinatumomab as bridging therapy in paediatric B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia complicated by invasive fungal diseaseInvasive fungal disease (IFD) remains a challenging complication of treatment for paediatric acute leukaemia. Consensus fungal treatment guidelines recommend withholding chemotherapy to facilitate immune recovery in this setting, yet prolonged delays in leukaemia therapy increase risk of relapse.
Associate Professor Lesterhuis said the gel, developed with the help of chemists at The University of Western Australia, could revolutionise the way solid tumours were treated.
News & Events
Researchers unlock key to slowing leukaemia progression in kidsWhen three-year-old Flo Parker injured her hip on a camping trip five years ago, her parents thought it would be nothing more than a common childhood injury.
News & Events
Ependymoma Awareness DayEthan was not even two when he was diagnosed with a rare type of brain tumour known as an ependymoma.
Research
The Bone Marrow Microenvironment in B-Cell Development and MalignancyB lymphopoiesis is characterized by progressive loss of multipotent potential in hematopoi-etic stem cells, followed by commitment to differentiate into B cells, which mediate the humoral response of the adaptive immune system.