The primary aim of the Institute's research programme is to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer. It is our goal to bridge the gap between basic and clinical research for the benefit of the patient.
The major challenge for the Institute is maintaining the high level of quality in the basic research while ensuring that the results lead to improvements in clinical treatment as soon as possible. The Institute has accumulated unique expertise and resources within preclinical research, which has led to much cooperation with clinical researchers.
Besides research the Institute has activities within the following areas:
- Education and teaching
- Participation in international organizations
- Science policy
Research
Basic research at the Institute is concentrated on the cellular functions that are affected in cancer cells and harbour potential targets for treatment. Our research programmes are focused on the following areas:
Department of Breast Cancer Research
The Department focuses on research in treatment of hormone-dependent human breast cancer. In vitro models are used to study the mechanisms of action of different treatment modalities and the mechanisms for development of resistance to treatment. The Department also participates in clinical studies regarding predictive markers for endocrine therapy.
Department of Proteomics in Cancer
The Department focuses on translational research in bladder and breast cancer, using state-of-the-art technologies for analysis of clinical relevant samples, such as tissue biopsies and body fluids. Detecting cancer at an early stage and predicting behaviour and treatment response for a tumour are highly prioritised areas for this department.
Department of Cell Cycle and Cancer
The Department focuses on the molecular basis and exploitation of checkpoint malfunction in human cancer. Spatio-temporal dynamics of checkpoint responses to genotoxic stress: Mechanisms and implications for genomic stability and cancer therapy. The role of centrosomal abnormalities in genetic instability and tumorigenesis.
Department of Molecular Cancer Biology
The research in the Department is focused on the mechanisms of tumour metastasis, which are the main cause of patient lethality. Currently, the Department is developing cancer therapeutic tools (antibodies, peptides) to block the activity of metastasis-inducing S100A4 and SEMA-3E proteins.
Apoptosis Department
The Department focuses its research on understanding how cancer cells avoid cell death and how to re-establish the normal conditions, where damaged cells are destroyed.
Cancer Genomics
The primary aim of the research is to identify genetic and epigenetic changes in cancer cells, and to study the functional and clinical implications of these changes. Our main focus is on genes involved in the development of malignant melanoma.
In addition, the Institute hosts two research centres:
Center for Genotoxic Stress Research
The primary mission of the Center is basic research at the highest, international level with strong implications for oncology and oncopathology. The Center combines unique expertise within cell cycle, cell death and DNA replication.
DCTB
The purpose of the Center is to connect the discoveries made in the laboratory with the treatment opportunities presented to the patient at the hospital. The scientific staff of the Center work within different areas from basic research to designing treatment strategies and are therefore able to contribute each from their perspective. Priority areas include early diagnostics, identification of markers for the stratification of patients according to treatment possibilities and prognosis, as well as identification of possible targets of drug discovery.
Education and Teaching
Activities in this area include:
- Ph.D. students, Master's students, technician and animal technician students
- Training of Postdoctoral fellows
- Courses, seminars and scientific meetings