Cancer Genetics Research

Researchers at the Center for Childhood Cancer Research are using state-of-the-art genomic strategies — including next-generation whole-genome sequencing — to better understand the relationship between specific mutations, disease risk, clinical outcomes and treatment selection for pediatric cancers.

The efforts of investigators at the CCCR have resulted in:

• Identification of mutations and new molecular targets for development of targeted cancer therapies, as well as immunotherapeutic approaches
• A relationship between specific mutations and high-risk disease, treatment responsiveness/selection and disease progression
• Modification of existing treatment regimens to reduce toxicities and improve patient clinical outcomes
• Expedited clinical evaluation for safety and efficacy of more targeted therapies for pediatric cancers

The ability of researchers at the Center for Childhood Cancer Research to quickly translate laboratory-based discoveries into clinically relevant therapies offers enormous promise to improve treatment of pediatric solid tumors and hematological malignancies.