Technology helps reveal the diversity of cancer development

Photo caption: Dr. Sam Aparicio, Distinguished Scientist, BC Cancer Agency

A new study, co-authored by the BC Cancer Agency's Dr. Sam Aparicio, has just been published in Nature.

The paper describes the results from a study that analysed almost five million genomic mutations from over 7,000 types of cancers. An algorithm was developed to extract more than 20 distinct patterns of mutations from this process and was then applied to 21 breast cancer whole genome sequences.

Recent advances in sequencing technology are enabling scientists to examine cancer genomes on a larger scale. Thousands of mutations can now be identified in a single cancer sample, offering the possibility of deciphering mutational signatures even when several different processes are taking place.

This study uncovered both known and unknown signatures in the cancer samples: some signatures are associated with the patient’s age at the time of diagnosis, exposure to tobacco smoke or ultraviolet light, and defects in DNA maintenance.

Although the origin of many mutational signatures remains unknown, this study reveals the diversity of mutational processes underlying the development of cancer. Such knowledge may help researchers to further understand the causes of cancer and accelerate progress in cancer prevention and therapy.

Read more about Dr. Aparicio’s lab here.

Introducing Workout to Conquer Cancer



Photo Caption: Workout to Conquer Cancer will feature a full-day of upbeat group exercises in the Richmond Oval

Are you ready to experience the most meaningful workout of your life? On March 8, 2014, Workout to Conquer Cancer will give you a chance to lunge, stretch and sweat your way to a world free from cancer! This event, benefiting the BC Cancer Foundation, will feature a full-day of upbeat group exercise classes in the Richmond Olympic Oval.

Participants in this fun fitness challenge will support groundbreaking research projects taking place at the BC Cancer Agency, including breast cancer breakthroughs. Come and be a part of the big exhale that will give researchers at the BC Cancer Agency the courage to say cure!

Find out more or register for Workout to Conquer Cancer here.

Give Today and Double Your Impact

Photo caption: Diane and Bob Conconi

Bob Conconi was diagnosed with throat cancer two years ago, and was treated at the BC Cancer Agency. Thanks to the care he received and the drastic improvements made in cancer treatments, Bob is now cancer-free.

Impressed by the innovative research taking place at the BC Cancer Agency to further advance patient care, Bob and his wife Diane are committing to double gifts to the BC Cancer Foundation until October 31st, up to a combined total of $3 million!

We invite you to double your impact by giving to the BC Cancer Foundation today!

For more information or to donate, click here.

Get Ready to Glam it Up at the 2013 Inspiration Gala

Join us for an extraordinary evening at the 9th annual Inspiration Gala on Thursday, November 7, 2013 at the Fairmont Pacific Rim.

Presented by Encana, this glamorous evening for 500 guests will wow you with a sensational cocktail reception, gourmet dinner, auctions and fabulous entertainment. This year’s Gala will benefit the Lung Cancer Research Initiative, an exciting new project which will help BC Cancer Agency scientists and clinicians better understand and treat this devastating disease.

Last year’s Gala raised an amazing $3.5 million and won the honour of Best Fund Raising Event in Canada at The Canadian Event Industry Awards. So don’t wait to get your tickets to this exclusive event and help us breathe new life into lung cancer research at the BC Cancer Agency!

Find out more about the Inspiration Gala here, or contact Danyael Weintraub at 604.675.8242 or dweintraub@bccancer.bc.ca