CanRisk Programme

Development of user-friendly cancer risk assessment tools for clinical settings (CanRisk). The main objective of the CanRisk programme is to develop and validate quantitative tools for cancer risk-stratification and prevention that take advantage of discoveries in both cancer genomics and epidemiology

EMBRACE Study

A small number of men and women have inherited faulty genes which means that they are at an increased risk of developing certain cancers. Two of these genes are called BRCA1 and BRCA2. When someone has a fault in these genes they are more likely to develop cancers of the breast, ovary or prostate.  The EMBRACE study collects information about people who have inherited faulty breast cancer genes.

EMBED Study

EMBED is a new study whose aim is to look for blood markers that would aid an early detection of breast cancer. To do this we are recruiting approximately 2500 women with a strong family history of breast cancer and who are eligible for annual mammogram screening. We are collecting blood samples over a number of years which will form an important resource to look back on and analyse in the event of a breast cancer diagnosis.

Laboratory and Sample Handling

Laboratory analysis takes place at Strangeways Laboratory. This includes extraction of DNA, RNA, plasma from blood samples as well as SNP genotyping.

RAPPER Study

A coordinated multi-centre prospective study investigating biological mechanisms behind normal tissue radiosensitivity.

SEARCH Study

The SEARCH Study is an ongoing study of genetic susceptibility to the common cancers, the main purpose of which is to determine how normal, common genetic variation affects cancer risk.  The study hopes to achieve this by collecting a blood sample and information on family history and lifestyle from men and women in East Anglia who have been diagnosed with specific cancers.

SIBS Study

A Genetic Study of Quantitative Phenotypes Related to Breast Cancer.  This research is one of many studies going on in Cambridge into breast cancer. It is being run jointly by Addenbrooke’s Hospital and the University of Cambridge, and is funded by Cancer Research UK. We are recruiting women and their female blood relatives from the NHS Breast Screening Programme.

Telomere Study

The major goal of this project is to examine the genetic basis of telomere shortening and its effect on risk of breast, colorectal and prostate cancer.