Personalised medicine

Personalised medicine uses detailed information about a person’s cancer to improve treatment.

Cancer cells have unique genetic changes, or mutations. These differences mean that each person’s tumour has its own genetic makeup, influencing how the tumour behaves and responds to treatment. Personalised medicine aims to develop and match specific treatments that work best for these specific genetic changes. 

Professor Richard Gilbertson co-leads the Minderoo Precision Brain Tumour Programme, using genomic data to guide treatment for aggressive brain cancers. This programme will trial genomic-based therapies with 225 patients at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, aiming to integrate precision medicine into routine NHS care.  

The Brenton Group has worked with NHS England to incorporate whole-genome sequencing into treatment plans for High Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer, using genetic signatures to guide decisions.  

The Personalised Breast Cancer Program, founded by the Caldas Group and now led by our Affiliated Clinical Faculty member Jean Abraham, uses real-time genome sequencing to tailor patient care and has expanded to sites nationwide. 

We aim to further explore tumour diversity and develop genomics to predict both relapse and effective treatments, improving patient outcomes through personalised treatment.