Funding Boost For Oxford Cancer Research

22 November 2011, 05:00

Scientists at the University of Oxford have been given a £180,000 grant to look into how breast cancer cells spread.

Dr Stephen Feller, from the university, will be investigating how breast cancer cells spread to other parts of the body in some people.

Past research has shown that when two molecules called GEP100 and EGFR become attached to each other, messages are produced instructing cancer cells to spread.

Once this happens, breast cancer can no longer be cured.

Baroness Delyth Morgan, Chief Executive of Breast Cancer Campaign, who are providing the money, told Heart why it's important:

"This research is about trying to understand what are the triggers for breast cancer cells moving around in the body and with the view to potential new treatments for the future.

Dr Lisa Wilde, Director of Research, said:

"This vitally important research could help in the development of new treatments to halt breast cancer spread in its tracks; ultimately increasing the chance of survival for many thousands of people."

It comes 6 months after another doctor at the university was given funding to look at which molecules affect the spread of the disease.