Dr Jacqui McGovern and Associate Professor Nathalie Bock
are providing new insights into tailored treatment options for cancers that have spread to the bone, particularly osteosarcoma and prostate cancer, respectively. Oncology drug candidates have the highest rate of failure in clinical trials because of the complexity of the disease and its interactions with surrounding cells. By creating 3D tissue models that closely mimic the bone microenvironment and its surroundings, and seeding these with tumour cells, the researchers can more accurately assess drug candidates, and advise clinicians on the most effective treatments for individual patients. Dr McGovern is also investigating ways to deliver chemo directly to the bone to minimise side effects, while Professor Bock has demonstrated that a routine treatment for prostate cancer can fuel tumour progression in the bone.
Watch Jacqui talk about her research
Find Dr McGovern’s QUT Academic Profile here.
Find A/Prof Bock’s QUT Academic Profile here.
Read and download the Preclinical Modelling Capability Statement
