Salmonella target and kill tumor cells directly and are being further genetically modified to serve as a delivery vehicle for cancer therapies that cannot specifically target tumors.  When targeted to the cancer site, this BCT combination therapy will destroy tumors with maximum efficiency but minimal side effects. Our goal is to tailor the best match of combination therapy to the tumor’s genetic profile – choosing the right therapeutic components that have demonstrated to most efficiently destroy the tumor being targeted.

We are in the process of testing new anti-cancer compounds produced by the bacteria at the cancer site, as well as attaching molecular scaffolds on the surface of the bacteria that can be used to shuttle large numbers of nanoparticles and other therapeutic drugs to the cancer site.  These scaffolds can also be used to enhance the tumor targeting specificity of our bacteria.

Continued work on our animal models demonstrates the safety of our BCT therapy.  We have established that our therapy can be taken on a regular basis in our prostate cancer mouse models without adverse reactions from the immune system, an important step towards bringing BCT therapy into the clinic. In 2011 we are testing clinical doses of BCT therapy in both mice with prostate tumors and rats with breast tumors in order to determine how much therapeutic Salmonella is needed to cure and significantly extend the life span of these animals. Currently, these animals live less than one year due to their tumor development.  Our goal is to have them live as long as mice and rats that do not develop tumors.

We are pursuing collaborations with other cancer-fighting organizations including local organizations (Immunophotonics, Inc. and the University of Missouri – Columbia) as well as scientific collaborations with colleagues in California, Australia and China.  By combining our therapeutic efforts, we can see if our anti-cancer treatments are stronger when used together rather than alone.  All these efforts bring BCT therapy another step closer to successful clinical use.

Dr. Robert A. Kazmierczak
Senior Investigator, Cancer Research Center

Flag Flown Over US Military Base

This flag returned recently to a grateful nation after being flown over a U.S. military base in Iraq. Accompanied by a case and an expertly framed certificate of authenticity it is a striking reminder that freedom isn’t free.

~Donated by Steve Lee &

The Frame Shop on Orr Street–Emily Brady

Value: Framing $325, Flag Priceless

Restaurant Tour

A sampling of the area’s finest restaurants are providing gift certificates for your dining pleasure. Great for hosting out of town guests, business clients or just making the rounds of these favorites yourself. Package includes: a $50 gift certificate to Murry’s, Dinner for 4 at Grand Cru Restaurant ($100 value), $50 gift certificate to G&D Pizzeria, $50 to Sophia’s, Les Bourgeois Vineyards V.I.P. Tasting and Tour for up to 10 people gift certificate ($100 value),  4-$20 gift certificates to the Perche Creek Cafe inside Midway Little General, $50 to 44 Stone Public House, 2-$20 gift certificates to House of Chow, 3 specialty drinks and 2 lunches at The Original Coffee Zone ($30 value), $25 to the 63 Diner, $50 to Lonnie Rays All-American Grill & Cafe in Harrisburg, 2-$25 gift certificates to D. Rowe’s Restaurant & Bar, $100 to Stadium Grill and $90 to Abigails.

~Donated by Area Restaurants

Value: $865

His & Hers Belair Dress Watches

This matching set of his & hers stainless steel and gold electroplate Belair watches are ready for a night on the town. Are you?  Presented in gorgeous wooden boxes with a three year warranty.

~Donated by Bryce & Lisa Edwards

Value: $550

Cross River Lodge Trip

Cross River Lodge is located on the sunny north shore of crystal clear Gunflint Lake, a Canadian border lake with direct access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. Enjoy a one week stay-Saturday to Saturday in a 2 bedroom cabin during the months of May, June or September 2011 (subject to availability).

~Donated by Cross River Lodge–John & Rose Schloot & Ken Kormeier

Value: $1200

Toyota Weekend

Guests coming into town for the weekend and could really use an extra car? Been thinking of buying a new Toyota but want to drive it for a while and sleep on it first? Well, here’s your chance! This gift certificate for a “Toyota Weekend” will get you a  Toyota vehicle agreed upon between the winner and the dealer from Friday at noon through Monday at noon. Rental includes 100 miles/day for a total of 300 miles. Driver must be 18 yrs of age or older and have full coverage insurance.

~Donated by Dan Kellar–Joe Machens Toyota-Scion

Value: $300

“Ladies…Start Your Engines!”

It may be called Men’s Health Magazine but this cover photo is for the ladies! Autographed feature photo and visor are expertly collage framed by the Frame Shop on Orr Street for many years of proud display. A unique item sure to delight the lady NASCAR fan!

~Donated by Gretchen Shackelford

Value: Priceless

St. Petersburg, Florida Condo Getaway

This 2 bedroom, 2 full bath beach front vacation condo with heated pool and Jacuzzi in sunny St. Petersburg, Florida can accommodate up to 6 people. With the exception of Christmas, New Year’s and Spring Break your 7 night stay can be anytime of the year you choose. Start planning your escape now! Must be used within 1 year of purchase. Contact Chris Kellar to make arrangements.

~Donated by Dan & Chris Kellar with Joe Machens Toyota

Value: $1,500+

Cardinals vs. Royals at Busch Stadium Tickets

After a rough winter it looks like it may finally be, fingers crossed, time to retire the snow shovel and enjoy America’s greatest pastime. Round up some friends because it is time for Cardinal’s baseball! Or maybe in your house it’s Royal’s baseball!! Or maybe both? We won’t judge, choosing sides is up to you!  Either way you get four tickets (seats 1-4) in Section #151, Row 8 for the Saturday, June 18th, 6:15pm game.

~Donated by First Bankers Bank Securities–Ken Bretthorst

Value: $480

Lead Crystal Barware

Have you been thinking of putting in a bar? How about some barware to get you started. Set includes 4 CRC logo etched Mikasa Elite lead crystal decanter sets each with a decanter and 4 matching glasses (16 total) and a 24% lead crystal ice bucket. Winning Spirit Raffle ticket not included but highly recommended!

~Donated by Darrel & Georgia Haymart & CRC

Value: $600

Carl Edwards Autographed Jacket

They say clothes make the man and while we can’t promise this jacket will make you a NASCAR great we can promise you won’t regret taking home this treasure autographed by our hometown favorite.

~Donated by Gretchen Shackelford

Value: Priceless

“A Year of Flowers”

Seasonal florist choice desktop arrangement delivered every month for a year. Guaranteed to brighten a room and just might keep you out of the dog house too!

~Donated by Lari’s-Fernwood Flowers–Steve Boyd

Value: $420

$500 CC’s City Broiler Gift Certificate

Add good company to this $500 gift certificate for fine dinning at CC’s City Broiler and we promise it will be an evening to remember.

~Donated by Sara LeMone

Value: $500

Spring Bling

Could your property use a little spring bling?  Few things are more spectacular than a thriving Burr Oak tree. Just take a drive down to the Missouri River Bottoms and visit the “Big Oak” if you have any doubts. While quite a bit smaller at 3” caliper and 10-12’ tall this beautiful Burr Oak has all the potential for greatness. Provide TLC for 6 generations and you will have the next giant oak in your yard. Forevergreen will get you started with delivery and planting within a 10 mile radius of Columbia.

~Donated by Forevergreen Nursery–Tanaine & Jim Kulich

Value $600

The Pear Tree Restaurant Package

This delightful dining package includes a $300 Gift Certificate to The Pear Tree Restaurant in Bevier, MO and a limousine ride to and from the restaurant for 6 people (non-Prom weekend).

~Donated by The Pear Tree Restaurant–Al & Michael

Abbadessa & Gaines Car Detailing–Rodney Gaines

Value: $500

Child’s Ride with Truman the Tiger on The Old Fire Truck Before an MU Home Football Game

An opportunity of a lifetime! Your child or grandchild (12 years of age or younger, up to 2 children) will circle Faurot Field with Truman the Tiger on the Old Yellow Fire Truck while operating the siren.

~Donated by Boone County Fire Protection District

Value: $1,150

“Dinner & A Show”

Enjoy a production of your choice at the Lyceum Theatre in historic Arrowrock, MO. Preceded by dinner at J. Hustons Tavern, operating since 1834.

~Donated by PFoodman–Ralph Pfremmer & Brian Ditmer

Value: $300

“An Evening of West County Blues”

Dinner and live music from The Wolf Public House with an overnight stay.

~Donated by PFoodman–Ralph Pfremmer & Brian Ditmer

Value: $300

Fireworks Extravaganza

This wheelbarrow full of fireworks is sure to light up your 4th of July celebration. If you can wait that long!

~Donated by Family Fireworks–Dennis & Nancy Palmer

and Mark & Helmi Sheely

Value: $500

Pig Roast Party for 100!

Pig roast fun without the work. Includes: preparation, cooking, three side dishes and delivery to your door or place of business. Makes a great lunch for an employee or customer appreciation event. Don’t delay, must be scheduled before the end of October 2011.

~Donated by Elks Lodge #594–Preston Schrum &

Ross Herman, Head Chefs.

Value: $750

Lake of the Ozarks Condo 2 Night Getaway

Serving the Lake of the Ozarks since 1985, Lake Ozark Vacations offers the best selection of fully equipped condominiums and homes for groups and families. Get ready to enjoy the best of the Lake with 2 nights lodging for up to 4 persons in a deluxe 2-bedroom condominium at the Lake of the Ozarks. Amenities include a full kitchen, living room and deck with grill. Pool and boat slips are available at an additional charge.

~Donated by Lake Ozark Vacations–Sally & Jim Estes
Value: $450

A New You

April marks four months since New Year’s Resolution time. So, how’s it going? Need some encouragement to keep up the hard work on the journey to the “New You?” Or maybe it’s simply high time to treat yourself. Whatever the reason Aesthetic Studio by Nails Only is here to help with gift certificates good for a set of nails, a set of eyelash extensions and permanent eye brow makeup.

~Donated by Aesthetic Studio by Nails Only–Mary Piper

Value: $505

John Deere Party Wagon

Built to last John Deere stake wagon sure to delight the kiddos after the adults enjoy the beer & 11 bottles of premium liquor on board. Something for everyone!

~Donated by Farm Power Lawn & Leisure

Value: $450+

Over the River & Through the Woods

Looking for fun close to home? Why not explore Boonville, MO with this great package of food and fun. Package includes: a $25 gift certificate to the 87 Dinner, $50 to Glenn’s Cafe at the Frederick, $25 to Maggies Bar & Grill, $30 to the Lucky Lady Saloon, $50 gift certificate to the Blind Ref Sports Bar & Grill, $75 Farraddays’ Bistro gift certificate and a one night stay at the Isle of Capri Casino Hotel and $25 to the Main Street Tavern in Fayette.

~Donated by Our Friends in Boonville

Value: $360

“Get set to get fit!”

Just need to tone or can’t see your toes, it doesn’t matter, jump in where you are and get to work! This package will get you started with a 1 month membership to Key Largo Fitness & Tanning, 2-2 week memberships to Wilsons Fitness Centers and gift certificates for 3-60 minute massages to ensure your gain isn’t quite all pain.

~Donated by Key Largo Fitness & Tanning–Michelle Wagner,

Wilsons Fitness Centers–Lisa Acton &

Tranquility Massage–Lisa Colborn

Value: $345

Martini Anyone?

McAdam’s Ltd. has provided an exceptional martini set sure to make every toast a celebration. Set includes: an ice bucket with tongs and brown leather accents, a matching 5-piece bar set, 6 Badash crystal martini glasses and a Badash crystal pitcher. Add olives and your spirits of choice and the party will be at your house!

~Donated by McAdam’s Ltd.

Value: $332

Grill Master’s Delight–BBQ Package

Just add grill master and this BBQ package is ready to cook! Package includes a $75 gift certificate for Born Tender Omega Beef from Show Me Farms, Weber grill, BBQ tools, stock pot, strainer, oven mitts, high temp spatula, measuring cup, ladle, thermometer, frying pan, veggie peeler, sauces, seasoning even an ice cream scoop!

~Donated by Show Me Farms, Ford Restaurant Supply,

Westlake Hardware, La Crosse Lumber & Mosers.

Value: $270

Juliska Pitcher & Tumblers

Chase away the heat this summer while serving your favorite chilled beverages in style with this large Juliska Berry & Thread pitcher and 6 Juliska Ella Tumblers topped off with a beautiful avocado teal tea towel.

~Donated by McAdam’s Ltd.

Value: $440

“Animated Spanish Village”

Each September, Dr. Eisenstark enters a painting in the Boone County National Bank exhibit during Columbia’s annual art fair. This is a hand signed print of this entry for the year 2009. The inspiration for this particular acrylic painting was a visit to the artist’s row in Balboa Park, San Diego, especially the works of Don Knapp. It reminded him of the pastel colored homes seen in the Mediterranean islands. These structures are not natural but highly distorted as might be seen in animated films. The intent is to playfully display multicolored objects that would be fun to look at from day-to-day.

~Donated by Abraham Eisenstark

Value: Priceless

Table 1. Salmonella typhimurium strains used for this study*.

* Starting in the late 1940âs, Miloslav Demerec and associates at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and Brookhaven National Laboratory stocked an extensive collection of auxotrophic mutants for the purpose of mapping the S. typhimurium LT2 chromosome. Over 10,000 of these original sealed agar stab cultures (0.5 ml/agar stab vial) are now curated in our laboratory at the Cancer Research Center. Information on alleles is from labels on vials or from original notebooks.

^a. Some allele numbers are duplicated in the sample set. When archival vials were initially opened and plated, some polymorphism in colony shape and size was observed. These individual colonies were selected and re-isolated after which they were given individual laboratory identification numbers. Additionally, some cultures gave rise to new colony types after plating on specific media. These subcultures were also given unique numbers while maintaining the original allelic identification number.

^b. Strain 1602 is the reference strain X3000, a gift from Cheryl Nickerson.

^c. N/A Date of isolation was not found in notebook.

A. Determination of the Role of Estrogen in Colon Cancer Development Using Estrogen Receptors in Knock Out Mice

Dr. Ruth S. MacDonald, CRC award recipient and Dr.Ju-Yu an Guo, Postdoctoral Fellow
There is increasing evidence that estrogens and phytoestrogens (from plants) affect colon cancer risk. Some evidence suggests that these compounds protect against colon cancer while other evidence suggests they promote colon cancer. This research project will use a mouse model of colon cancer to determine if estrogen or other estrogen-like compounds alter the tumors in the mice. The response to conjugated estrogens, similar to those used in hormone replacement therapy for women, will also be tested.
Bottom Line: Specific plant foods may have a significant role in prevention of cancer.

B. Characterization of the Gene that Controls Cancer Cells in Spreading from the Site of the Original Tumor

Dr. William Folk, CRC award recipient and Dr. Kimberly A. Lieber, Postdoctoral Fellow
Skin cancer often results from overexposure to ultraviolet light causing DNA damage in skin cells. Fortunately, cells of all organisms have the means to repair damaged DNA. However, little is known about how cells sense this damaged DNA in order to start repairs. The identification of these protective mechanisms will allow many possibilities for developing new diagnostic tools and treatments for this type of cancer.
Bottom Line: The identification of these protective mechanisms will allow development of new diagnostic protocols, as well as novel therapeutic drugs.

C. Deciphering Signals of Breast Cancer

Dr. Tim H.-M. Huang, CRC award recipient and Dr. Huidong Shi, Postdoctoral Fellow
Cancer is a complex disease resulting from multiple genetic mutations. There is a lesser-known type of mutation that has been observed in breast cancer. Sophisticated robotic technology had been adapted to look at DNA to find this specific type of mutation with a high degree of accuracy and sensitivity. This type of technology will lead to more accurate diagnosis of cancer from biopsy and other tissue sources as an alternative to traditional pathology.
Bottom Line: This study will pave the way for molecular diagnosis and classification of tumors, and thus better diagnosis and treatment.

D. Does Exposure to Environmental Estrogens Increase Risk for Prostate Carcinogenesis?

Dr. Frederick S. vom Saal, CRC award recipient and Dr. Catherine Richter, Postdoctoral Fellow
Exposure during fetal life to estrogen related compounds has been shown to result in prostate cancer in animal studies and has been related to vaginal cancer in women. For the purposes of this study, mouse fetuses will be exposed to estrogen like chemicals that leach out of plastic bottles and food containers and the effects of this exposure will be monitored in the mice. This study will be the first to examine the possibility that fetal exposure to estrogenic chemicals results in prostate cancer development.
Bottom Line: This study will identify whether certain chemicals alter estrogen in fetal life and lead to prostrate cancer in adults.

E. Novel Ways to Inhibit the Growth of Cancer Cells

Dr. Gary Weisman, CRC award recipient and Dr. Patricia Theiss, Postdoctoral Fellow
A major emphasis in the development of new cancer treatments is to devise new ways to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. This project will study a family of proteins known as nucleotide receptors. Some members of this family work to promote the death of cancer cells. One member of this family of proteins accelerates the growth of blood vessels that aid in tumor expansion by providing blood supply to the growing tumor. Thus, this family of proteins offers promising new targets for cancer therapy.
Bottom Line: This strategy of blocking blood vessel growth increases the probability of destroying tumor development.

Prostate cancer occurs in a latent or clinical form in 30-40% of men by age 40-50, increasing substantially in men over 50 years of age. Current use of drugs and radiation has been partially effective only when the cancer is diagnosed early. Thus, research is needed into novel approaches to cure this devastating disease. The Cancer Research Center’s (CRC) novel approach utilizes a therapeutic strain of Salmonella typhimurium (CRC2631) to selectively target and destroy prostate tumor cells. Our first step was to demonstrate that CRC2631 was an attenuated strain with no harmful effects. Through painstaking genetic manipulation we have developed a Salmonella strain that is attenuated (non-toxic) and fails to show any adverse reaction when as many as 200 million (2×108) live bacteria are injected into a battery of mice. We now seek “seed money” to take the next step: to demonstrate that our therapeutic candidate Salmonella CRC2631 will reduce the size of prostate tumors and extend life expectancy. CRC is ready to embark on the testing of our therapeutic strain in mice genetically predisposed to prostate cancer (TRAMP mice). These mice typically die of prostate cancer at one year of age; the normal life expectancy of a laboratory mouse is two years. Although other investigators are also pursuing the use of Salmonella for therapy, our research has shown that our genetically modified strain is devoid of toxicity and has different affinities for tumor cells. Our next experiments are designed to answer the following questions: How much CRC2631 is required to successfully invade, inhibit and destroy primary and secondary prostate tumors in the TRAMP mouse model without ill effects to the mouse? Secondly, what Salmonella administration protocol is most effective at eliminating tumors and/or increasing the lifespan of TRAMP mice? We are optimistic that this animal model research will ultimately lead to an effective therapeutic treatment with Salmonella that will selectively target and eliminate prostate cancer. Upon completion of tests with the TRAMP mice, we will use the data from these animal model tests to apply for funds from cancer agencies to utilize this novel anti-cancer therapy in higher animals and eventually clinical trials in humans.

A. Prostate Cancer

Dr. Susan Deutscher, CRC award recipient and Dr. Linda Landon, Postdoctoral Fellow
Prostate cancer cells have a specific molecule on their surface known as the Thomsen-Freidenreich antigen. This may serve as a target for killing of the cancerous cells without harming the surrounding normal cells. The molecule also serves as a marker for prostate cancer cells and can be used as the basis of diagnostic tests. Bottom Line: Linking radioactive isotopes with drugs should lead to earlier diagnosis as well as destruction of tumor cells.

B. Pancreatic Cancer

Dr. Tim Hoffman, CRC award recipient, Dr. Charles J. Smith, Postdoctoral Fellow and Dr. Hermogenes Jimenez, Postdoctoral Fellow While pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer mortality in the U.S., there are still limitations in the effective diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Cancerous pancreatic cells have a distinctive marker on their cell surface that serves as the basis for detection and treatment of cancer. Drugs, including radioactive molecules, can be targeted to cancerous cells.
Bottom Line: This selective targeting approach should lessen the toxic effects of drugs that are in current use.

C. Malignant Melanomas

Dr. Thomas Quinn, CRC award recipient and Dr. Vladislav Glinskii, Postdoctoral Fellow
Melanoma is one of the most common cancers. While prompt diagnosis and removal of skin lesions offer the best outcome, some tumors go undetected and spread to other organs. This research focuses on targeting the cancerous cells for both detection and treatment without killing normal cells.
Bottom Line: Linking radioactive isotopes with drugs should lead to earlier diagnosis as well as destruction of tumor cells.

D. Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancers

Dr. Kattesh Katti, CRC award recipient and Dr. Kanchan Kothari, Postdoctoral Fellow
There is a need for more specific tests for the diagnosis of cancers. Most cancerous cells have some type of identifiable molecule on their surface that is related to their cancerous state. Radioactive compounds can be targeted to these markers. These molecules could be called “magic bullets” due to their ability to distinguish between cancer and normal cells.
Bottom Line: This targeted therapy linking radioactive isotopes with drugs should lead to earlier diagnosis as well as destruction of tumor cells.

A. Study of Targets for Prevention of Cell Division During Cancer

Dr. Heide Schatten, CRC award recipient, Dr. Allison Wiedermeier, Postdoctoral Fellow, Dr. Geoffery Gobert, Postdoctoral Fellow, and Dr. Quing-Yuan Sun, Postdoctoral Fellow
Cancer is a result of unregulated cell growth. One drug that inhibits this growth is Taxol. There are some unpleasant side effects associated with the use of Taxol, so the goal of this project is to understand the mechanism of cell division more thoroughly in order to develop alternatives to drugs like Taxol. A mouse model for prostate cancer has been developed to help with this problem and the findings may be applicable to other types of cancer as well.
Bottom Line: This should lead to new and more effective drugs.

B. Cancer: A Balance Between DNA Damage and Repair

Professor Stephen Alexander, CRC award recipient and Dr. Christopher Foote, Postdoctoral Fellow
Cancers result from DNA damage. Fortunately, cells of all organisms have the means to repair damaged DNA. However, little is known about how cells sense this damaged DNA in order to start repairs. The identification of these protective mechanisms will allow many possibilities for developing new diagnostic tools and treatments for this type of cancer.
Bottom Line: By knowing how DNA damage is repaired, superior drugs can be developed.

C. Genes for Synthesis of Anti-Oxidant Enzymes that Repair Cancer Cells

Professor Abraham Eisenstark, Associate Professor Miriam Golomb, Associate Professor Michael Calcutt, and Dr. Kelly Edwards, Postdoctoral Fellow
Oxidants are like molecular bullets that can damage DNA and begin the process of tumor formation. Normal cells are capable of producing anti-oxidants that can both destroy oxidants and repair damaged DNA. Certain foods that contain anti-oxidants such as vitamins C and E and selenium are important for countering the damaging effects of oxidants. This research project focuses on the intricate mechanisms that control this process within the cell. Vitamin preparations emphasize the anti-oxidant vitamins and sunscreens now contain anti-oxidant compounds.
Bottom Line: Basic knowledge of the damaging effects of oxidants and the role of anti-oxidants should lead to the reduction of cancer incidents.

D. Finding Key Proteins that Regulate Tumor Growth and Tumor Death

Dr. Mark Hannink, CRC award recipient and Dr. Donna Zhang, Postdoctoral Fellow
Within cells, a complex system governs the balance between life and death through a series of proteins that interact in very specific ways. A greater understanding of the function of key proteins will lead to a better understanding of what happens to initiate the unregulated cell division that is associated with most cancer.
Bottom Line: This research will lead to a better understanding of how regulation of specific proteins can interfere with the development of cancer cells.

E. Role of Estrogens in Breast Cancer Control

Professor Dennis Lubahn, CRC award recipient, Dr. Brian Morin, Postdoctoral Fellow, and Dr. Ed Curran, Postdoctoral Fellow
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death. It has been known for some time that certain types of breast cancer require estrogens to grow. Some treatments have been based on this observation and use an estrogen blocker. This may result in tumors that become estrogen resistant. Identification of all the receptors involved in the estrogen response is fundamental to developing a means to overcome this obstacle to treatment. A mouse model of this interaction has given valuable insights to the problem of estrogen resistant tumors.
Bottom Line: This targeted therapy would be effective in the fight to control breast cancer and other estrogen responsive tumors.

A. Chemical and Biochemical Reactions of Dithiolethiones in Certain Foods

Dr. Kent Gates, CRC award recipient and Dr. Donna Zhang, Postdoctoral Fellow
We are seeking to understand the chemical and biological mechanisms by which synthetic and naturally occurring compounds (such as those found in foods like broccoli and cauliflower) can prevent cancer in humans.
Bottom Line: An understanding of how these “anti-carcinogenic” compounds prevent cancer will ultimately allow us to rationally design cancer-preventive diets and dietary supplements.

B. Ultrasonic Detection and Characterization of Endocrine Responsive Cancers

Dr. Steven P. Neal, CRC award recipient and Dr. Thad Wilson, Postdoctoral Fellow
In collaboration with Dr. Boote from the Radiology Department at the University of Missouri-Columbia, Dr. Neal has used the Cancer Research Center Fellowship to support the investigation of ultrasonic scattering processes in cancerous and benign prostate tissue. The long-term goals of the research include improving the effectiveness of ultrasound guided needle biopsies of the prostate and ultrasound based screening for prostate cancer.
Bottom Line: This innovative technique will lead to improved diagnostics, as well as to reduce anxiety of the patient.

C. Development of Effective Immunological Diagnostic Peptides

Professor George Smith, CRC award recipient and Dr. Leslie Matthews, Postdoctoral Fellow
This research project takes a new approach to understanding the body’s response to cancer. The principal assumption is that some type of “marker” or sign is generated by the immune system in response to disease, even in diseases that are not infectious or inherited. If this assumption is true then these markers must exist for cancer. These signature substances can then serve as the basis for highly sensitive diagnostic tests that may detect changes in the body before clinical signs appear. These markers may also serve as anti-cancer vaccine components. Bottom Line: The use of small peptides as antigen-antibody components, in place of large, natural, immunological components, should lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment.