How a group of genes could hold the secret to curing cancer
The University of Bradford is hosting an exciting symposium for researchers, students and academics with an interest in HOX genes in cancer.
The symposium, taking place on Thursday 26 May, will look at HOX genes in cancer and will provide a unique opportunity to hear from some of the world's most prominent researchers in the field.
The HOX genes are a family of similar genes that help enable the remarkably rapid cell division in growing embryos. Many of these genes are switched off in adults but research has shown that in many cancers, HOX genes are switched back on, helping cancer cells to proliferate and survive. Through targeting these genes, researchers can effectively knock out a key defence mechanism in some types of cancer.
Co-ordinating the event is , Director of the at the University of Bradford. Richard recently had his research on a — one of the most lethal cancers of all — published in BMC Cancer.
Professor Morgan said: “Over the last decade there has been a huge growth in research looking at the role of these genes in cancer. This event is a great opportunity for sharing knowledge and seeing how far the area of research has come, I'm really hopeful that by understanding these genes we can develop successful drugs to treat many types of cancer and save millions of lives.”
Speakers at the event come from as far as the US, Germany and Italy, along with other renowned scientists from across the UK.
Richard adds: “This event is relevant for any researchers and students with an interest in HOX genes and also relevant for contacts in the healthcare industry who may be interested in seeing where the future of cancer treatment could be going.”
The Institute of Cancer Therapeutics at the University of Bradford houses a multidisciplinary team of researchers in the field of drug design, synthesis, screening and pharmacology. The purpose built institute is configured to integrate all the elements of the preclinical drug and biomarker discovery process, in keeping with our mission to research and develop new cancer treatments.
The event is free and takes place in the Norcroft Centre at the University of Bradford, Thursday 26 May, 9am-5pm. For more information and to book on the event, visit the event page on Eventbrite.