Grant: Project Grant

Cancers are believed to start from a single mutated cell. That cell continues to divide and accumulate new mutations. Some of those mutations create a growth advantage, and as a result cancer cells continually evolve to be more and more aggressive. But the cancer cells will also meet selective pressures, like lack of nutrients or oxygen. Again, additional mutations will help the cells adapt and continue to grow and expand. But how many different types of tumour cells exist at diagnosis? And does the diversity caused by this evolutionary process influence the way cancers should be treated? We will use new DNA sequencing and computational techniques in prostate cancer to help address these questions, and improve treatment options.