The funds raised through the Cars for Cancer Lottery assist the Mater Medical Research Institute (MMRI), the Mater Prostate Cancer Research Centre, Multiple Myeloma, Breast Cancer and the Queensland Cord Blood Bank.
Researchers at the MMRI believe the body’s inherent biology is its most powerful weapon for fighting disease. By studying the body’s cellular repair and defence mechanisms, the MMRI team aims to make the body smarter and more effective in curing and preventing cancer and other diseases.
The MMRI is a world leader in the field of biological therapies, attracting scientists from around the world to work on its leading-edge research projects. Many MMRI research projects have led to breakthrough discoveries and world-first innovations in health care. MMRI scientists work with medical staff to turn their basic scientific discoveries into treatments as quickly as possible.
The MMRI commenced a phase I clinical trial using a therapeutic DC vaccine for prostate cancer in late 2005. It is important to note it is not a preventative vaccine but a potential treatment option for patients already diagnosed with prostate cancer. Phase I trials are designed to assess the safety of the vaccine. A total of 12 patients with metastatic prostate cancer will take part in the phase I trial. More patients will take part in later stages.
Patients receive 3 vaccinations one month apart, at different dosages and different methods of injection; either via the veins or under the skin. Scientists will monitor patients following vaccination for signs of an effective immune response and the dendritic cells’ capacity to migrate to the site of the cancer to generate the desired anti-cancer immune response.
The MMRI is the front line against the progression of deadly diseases such as cancer, diabetes related diseases and Cardiovascular disease (heart, stroke and blood vessel disease).