Cancer

Dr Opher Gileadi tells us how cells maintain genome integrity and how we can use it in our fight against cancer. While cigarette smoke and sun exposure can lead to DNA damage, which causes cancer, there are a number of natural processes within the body that can also lead to cell mutations. Dr Opher Gileadi studies the structure and chemical biology of the proteins involved in DNA repair and in recovery from DNA damage. Since DNA damage can be both a cause of cancer and a tool in fighting cancer, Dr Gileadi aims to uncover ways to better target and destroy cancer cells.

Professor Chris Pugh tells us about the links between genetics, renal disease and oxygen sensing. The kidney plays a central role in our metabolism, by controlling various physiological balances. Genetics is central to these mechanisms, since gene defects lead to all sorts of malfunctions. Oxygen sensing mechanisms were first discovered as a result of studies on the production of the kidney hormone erythropoietin. We now know that the underlying system controls about 1000 genes. Professor Chris Pugh is working on the oxygen sensing functions of the body to assist in designing better therapies for disorders that involve oxygenation problems, such as angina and cancer.

Dr Bee Wee tells us about Palliative Care in Oxford and her research on end of life care and fatigue. Due to advances in medicine prolonging the lives of those with progressive, life limiting diseases, the need for long-term palliative care has increased. Dr Bee Wee is currently researching end of life care for people with incurable cancer and advanced non-malignant disease, symptom management and rehabilitation, to improve quality of life for patients. Dr Wee is the Head of Palliative Care Research and Development, based at Sir Michael Sobell House in Oxford.

Professor Yvonne Jones talks about cell-cell communication and how this can help us develop new drugs. Cells communicate through receptors on their surface; however, when these finely tuned systems don't work correctly, diseases can be triggered. Professor Yvonne Jones has been working to identify the structural biology of cell surface recognition and signalling complexes. Receptors embedded in the surface are potential targets for therapeutic intervention in many diseases including cancer. Professor Jones is director of the Cancer Research UK Receptor Structure Research Group.

Professor Tim Key tells us about the role of life style and diet in the development of cancer. Although smoking is still the most important cause of cancer, we now know that obesity and high intakes of alcohol can increase the risk of several types of cancer. Professor Tim Key is researching the role of diet and hormones in the development of cancer, particularly cancers of the breast, prostate and bowel. Professor Key is the principal investigator of the EPIC-Oxford cohort of sixty thousand participants, for various studies on cancer, hormones and nutrition.

Dr Katja Simon tells us about her research on autophagy in red blood cells. Autophagy is the cellular process in which cells degrade their toxic waste and damaged organelles. In order to fit through small capillaries, red blood cells need to expel their nucleus and degrade their organelles. Dr Katja Simon's research focuses on how the lack of autophagy triggers DNA mutations leading to the possible development of leukemic cells. This might help us make better use of current therapies and develop new ones.