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RESEARCH OVERVIEW

We are interested in the cancer microenvironment or tumour stroma which consists of various cell types, including immune cells and blood vessels, and supports cancer growth. Our research program aims to understand how stromal cells are remodelled, and the extent to which stromal networks regulate cancer progression. We have shown that the tumour microenvironment is highly dynamic and can be re-programmed or remodelled to enhance immune cell uptake and overall response to immunotherapy. Furthermore, we have developed precision tools to specifically target abnormal stromal features to disrupt and re-program signalling networks between multiple stromal components and to break the vicious cycle of disease progression and relapse.

Utilising a suite of preclinical cancer models which includes genetically modified mouse models of pancreatic cancers, orthotopic cancer models of breast, lung, brain and melanoma, and human cancer specimens our goal is to develop new drugs that can increase the survival rate and quality of life of cancer patients.

Professor Ruth Ganss

Professor Ruth Ganss

Cancer Microenvironment

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LATEST NEWS

$10 million raised for WA Cancer Research

West Australians give record amount in Australia’s biggest charity ride.  This morning it was announced a record $10,104,999 has been raised for WA cancer research by the nation’s biggest charity bike ride, the MACA Cancer 200 Ride for Research.  The funds raised will go to Perth’s Harry Perkins Institute of…

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Lowering cancer drug dose could open tumours to immunotherapy

Groundbreaking research undertaken at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research in Perth has shown that administering anti-cancer drugs at a hundred-fold lower dose than standard protocols could improve the tumour’s response to immunotherapy.  Perkins Head of Cancer Microenvironment, Professor Ruth Ganss from The University of Western Australia (UWA), said…

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Buckle up as WA’s Premier Truck Show announces HUGE money raised for Cancer Research!

$500,000 donated to the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research in Perth to drive cutting-edge cancer research! Last night the WA Mack Muster and Truck Show team and their sponsors gathered at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research to hand over a cheque for half a million dollars to…

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