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Ground-breaking cancer medical research has been boosted by $1 million in funding from the Cancer Society, it was announced today.
The Cancer Society is backing a number of prominent New Zealand medical researchers to investigate the causes and treatments of different forms of cancer, including brain tumours and prostate and breast cancer.
Among the research grants announced by the organisation today is a study led by Dr David Ackerley, which looks to identify new enzymes that could be useful in anti-cancer gene therapy. The project involves a collaboration of two leading research teams from Wellington and Auckland over the next three years.
Dr Ian Hermans, from the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research in Wellington, was awarded funding for a three-year investigation into a new treatment for recurrent glioblastoma, the commonest brain cancer in adults.
Wellington School of Medicine Professor, David Lamb, also received further funding for an Australian and New Zealand prostate cancer trial, which seeks to identify how long it is safe to use hormone therapy in the treatment of prostate cancer, and whether any side effects of treatment can be reduced.
The Cancer Society's medical director, Associate Professor Chris Atkinson, said the research projects would ensure New Zealand continued to contribute to global knowledge and expertise on the many different forms of cancer.
"We were impressed by the quality of this year's applications, and that some of New Zealand's best research teams will lead the projects,' he said.
- NZPA
