October 15, 2024
A History of Innovation
Since our inception, Genome BC has funded crucial projects related to lymphoid cancer and our efforts continue to make a significant impact. Work in this area began with large-scale projects aimed at understanding and managing lymphoma, a cancer affecting lymphocytes, the infection-fighting cells of the immune system.
Since that time, Genome BC projects have contributed to a number of key impacts and medical advancements:
- Whole Genome Array Technology
Our early investments led to the development of technology capable of analyzing the entire genome to identify regions linked to disease. This technology has been globally adopted and has provided crucial insights into the genetic basis of lymphoid cancers.
- Personalized Treatment Approaches
In 2013, Genome BC and Genome Canada funded the Personalized Treatment of Lymphoid Cancer Project to tailor treatments based on genetic data. The project identified specific genetic markers that could predict how patients would respond to certain treatments, leading to more personalized and effective care.
Insights from Genome BC funded research led to the development of a specialized chemotherapy program in BC, which has more than doubled the cure rate for large B cell lymphoma. Similar treatment improvements have been observed in other lymphoid cancers.
- Infrastructure and Capacity Building
Another Genome BC project helped establish BioLym, a tissue bank and database that captures 90% of lymphoid cancers diagnosed in BC. To date, the project has collected samples from over 30,000 participants.
- Expansion to Other Tumour Groups
The research infrastructure developed for lymphoma has been expanded to other cancer types, contributing to the broader BioCancer program, enhancing research and treatment strategies for various malignancies.
The Basics on Biomarkers
One of the important tools driving progress in cancer research is the use of biomarkers—biological molecules that can serve as measurable indicators of a disease or condition. In the context of cancer, biomarkers help detect, monitor and predict the behavior of tumors, guiding personalized treatment decisions. Our work includes the discovery of a new biomarker that improves treatment decisions for relapsed Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Biomarker for Relapsed Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
A Genome BC-funded project from 2013 contributed to a noteworthy achievement by researchers at BC Cancer. They discovered a new “spatial” biomarker that evaluates the location and interaction of different cell types within a tumour. This biomarker provides a more comprehensive view of how cells within a tumour interact, offering deeper insights into cancer behavior and progression.
“This discovery helps physicians make better treatment decisions, increasing the chance of a cure for people with cancer,” said Dr. Christian Steidl, one of the lead researchers on this project. “This is the ultimate goal of our work.”
Genome BC’s commitment to investing in lymphoid cancer research has significantly advanced our understanding and treatment of the disease. Our efforts have set a high standard for cancer care in British Columbia and beyond, promising even more precise and effective treatments in the future.
