Validation of a liquid biopsy to predict recurrence in NZ breast cancer patients - Research • Breast Cancer Foundation NZ

Validation of a liquid biopsy to predict recurrence in NZ breast cancer patients

Dr Annette Lasham - The University of Auckland
Dr Annette Lasham - The University of Auckland
October 2019
Research Grant

What is the problem and who is affected?

Early detection of breast cancer recurrence is critical when it comes to saving lives. Combining blood test results with existing clinical and pathological tests could give doctors and patients a more accurate prognosis. This information could guide treatment decisions or suggest which patients may need closer monitoring after surgery for breast cancer.

What is this research hoping to achieve?

Dr Annette Lasham and her team have identified two molecules in patient blood samples that seem to be reliable predictors of which women would have a relapse before five years. They now want to test for those molecules in 400 breast cancer patients, to see if they can be used as a blood test to predict disease recurrence.

Research grant given in partnership with Breast Cancer Cure and the Health Research Council.