Cancer Genetics Laboratory

Our current research programs are:

Cancer Genetics Diagnostic Laboratory

We perform NATA-accredited genetic testing for Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2, Hereditary Phaeochromocytoma/Paraganglioma syndromes, hereditary hyperparathyroidism disorders and hereditary thyroid disorders.

Phaeochromocytoma/Paraganglioma syndromes

Studying hereditary mutations in key genes associated with phaeochromocytomas and paragangliomas. Our research has made several discoveries that link mitochondrial dysfunction with a predisposition to these and other cancers. These biomarker discoveries have been translated into routine pathology practice.

Thyroid Cancer

Studying tumour or hereditary DNA mutations that predispose people to thyroid cancers. Our ground breaking work has included discovery of fusion chromosomes in particular subtypes of thyroid cancer. It has also examined the role of the BRAF oncogene in cancer metastasis and the specific role of a thyroid developmental transcription factor FOXE1 with thyroid cancer predisposition, a finding that links disruption in an early developmental gene with cancer development in adult life.

Adrenal Cancer

In this program, we study the microRNA changes associated with the highly malignant cancer of the adrenal cortex.

Pituitary Tumours

Studying the genetic and epigenetic changes of pituitary neoplasms.