Our Focus Areas
Tumour-Host Immunobiology
Tumour-host immunobiology refers to how the immune system interacts with cancer cells such as recognizing, attacking, or sometimes failing to detect them. In bladder cancer, this includes how immune cells respond to tumour growth, how tumours may evade immune detection, and how inflammation or immune suppression can influence cancer progression.
Translational Models and Precision Medicine
Translational models and precision medicine aim to bridge lab research and patient care by creating and using models that mimic human bladder cancer to develop personalized treatments based on an individual’s genetics, tumour biology, and predicted treatment response.
Health Systems and Quality of Care
Health systems and quality of care refer to how access, delivery, and organization of medical services impact bladder cancer outcomes, with factors like timely diagnosis, specialist availability, and care coordination playing key roles in patient survival and quality of life.
BCG Response and Resistance
BCG response refers to how bladder cancer patients react to Bacillus Calmette-Guérin therapy, where the immune system is activated to attack cancer cells. BCG resistance occurs when the cancer does not respond or returns despite treatment, often due to immune evasion or changes in tumor biology.
Sex Differences in Treatment Outcomes
Sex differences in treatment outcomes refer to how men and women may respond differently to bladder cancer therapies. Women often experiencing delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes, possibly due to biological factors like hormones and immune responses, as well as differences in tumour biology.