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Understanding
Translational Cancer Research
The Curtis and Elizabeth Anderson Cancer Institute (ACI) at Memorial University Medical
Center expanded cancer care in a way that is unparalleled in southeast Georgia. We
developed a research division to study the molecular genetic mechanisms of cancer. We
study how cancer develops, how it responds to treatment, and how patient outcomes are
affected. We perform a particular type of cancer research known as translational research.
The goal of translational research is to convert scientific findings into clinical applications that
directly help patients. Translational cancer research is defined as work that has the potential
to affect patient care within five years. Not surprisingly, this type of research is best carried
out in an environment in which doctors and scientists collaborate daily.
Why Translational Research is Important
Unlike basic cancer research, the direction of translational cancer research is driven by
questions arising in the patient care area (clinic). Findings in the laboratory are then
implemented in the clinic and results sent back to the laboratory for further study and
fine-tuning, before once again entering the clinic to influence patient care. This continuing
cycle of patient to laboratory and back again is what really differentiates translational cancer
research. It’s also why translational research has so powerfully impacted cancer care.
Individualized Treatment
 The ultimate goal of the research being conducted at the ACI is to achieve individualized
cancer treatment. We realize that each person is unique. Similarly, each cancer is unique.
Two women may both have breast cancer. However, they may respond to treatment differently,
have different side effects, etc. These reactions are determined by their individual genetic
makeup. We want to create treatment plans that are tailored to each person’s cancer and
body type. To do that, we must understand all features of a specific cancer tumor.
Our Research
Our laboratory research is organized into
programs that focus on specific disease
sites and/or mechanisms that influence
the development, spread, and treatment
of cancer. Each group is led by a principal
investigator who directs the research and
supervises the work of post-doctoral fellows
and research technicians. The researchers
interact with doctors at the ACI and with the
multidisciplinary disease management teams
that drive patient care. We currently have
programs researching women’s cancers, melanoma, sarcoma, and brain cancers. We
are working to identify markers in the tumor
that predict how well a specific cancer will
respond to treatment. We’re also developing
methods to achieve better delivery of drugs
to tumors in difficult locations.
Learn more about our world-class cancer
research program.
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