Understanding predisposition to cancer of the oesophagus through inherited defects in DNA

Dr Lauren’s 2023 grant is funded by Cure Cancer

She was also funded by Cure Cancer in 2019.

Dr Lauren is a UQ Amplify Fellow in the Surgical Oncology Group at The University of Queensland Frazer Institute.

Dr Lauren Aoude completed a PhD in melanoma genetics at The University of Queensland in 2014. During her PhD, she was involved in whole-genome/exome sequencing of over 250 melanoma families. In 2016, she was awarded an NHMRC Early Career Fellowship to investigate precision medicine for the treatment of metastatic melanoma. Her current project investigates which genes increase the likelihood of a patient developing oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC).

Dr Lauren Aoude's research

The incidence of OAC in Australia has more than doubled in the past three decades, but currently the outlook for patients is poor, with few treatment options available. Dr Lauren Aoude and her team are committed to changing this. 

Up to 10% of all cancers are caused by inherited DNA mutations. Knowledge of these mutations are extremely useful in understanding a patients risk of developing specific cancers, and also personalising treatment to improve outcomes. While we know of these mutations for many cancers, we have not yet identified any that are associated with OAC. 

Dr Lauren’s research aims to identify these genes through genome sequencing. Understanding these pathways will allow clinicians to have a better understanding of who is most at risk of developing OAC; improve screening and early detection; better predict treatment responses; and ultimately improve health outcomes for patients.  

“This project will create important advances in the understanding of OAC development. The knowledge gained will enable earlier detection of cancer and improved screening which increases the chances for successful treatment.”

The importance of cancer research funding

“The greatest hurdle for early-career researchers is the ability to secure long term funding,” says Dr Lauren.

“The funding landscape in Australia is incredibly competitive. As an early-career researcher myself, this Cure Cancer grant means so much to my career progression. Emerging researchers bring renewed energy to the field and innovative ideas that are vital if we are going to make a difference to the lives of cancer patients.”

“Cure Cancer has provided me with the opportunity to lead my project and follow my dreams. I aspire to lead my own lab in the future and having this support is a step on that path. I truly believe this project that could have a positive impact for patients with oesophageal cancer.”

“Cancer touches the lives of so many. Research in this area has enabled the development of new treatments that have significantly improved outcomes for patients and their families.  I am privileged to play a part in that.”

Together, we can cure cancer.

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