Using proteomic techniques to develop a systems approach for the discovery of biomarkers and drug targets towards cancer and other diseases

Gliomas are the most common type of CNS cancers, originating from glial cells. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common, complex and aggressive form of brain tumor found in human adults. GBM results from transformed glial cell progenitors. These glial cells have been found to arise from neuronal stem cells (NSCs), which reside in the sub-ventricular zone (SVZ) region of the brain. Using proteomic techniques, we aim to better understand the protein expression patterns involved in different subtypes of GBM to identify biomarkers that can be used by practicing physicians to characterize glial cancers early on and recommend the most appropriate course of treatment for that particular patient. This project will enhance our understanding of sub-ventricular zone involvement in patients with GBM and help to identify potential drug targets for some of the signalling pathways that are implicated in this disease.

Faculty Supervisor:

Andrew Mason

Student:

Partner:

Indian Institute of Technology Bombay

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Alberta

Program: