Purpose
The purpose of the Centre for Cancer and Stem Cell Research is multifaceted, aimed at advancing the understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer and diseases related to stem cells. The key objectives include:
01
Research and Innovation
Conduct cutting-edge research to uncover the molecular and cellular mechanisms of cancer and stem cell biology. This includes understanding how cancers develop, progress, and respond to treatments, as well as how stem cells can be used in regenerative medicine and therapy.
02
Translational Medicine
Bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical applications. Develop new therapies, drugs, and treatment protocols based on research findings, and work to bring these innovations to patients through clinical trials.
03
Education and Training
Provide education and training for the next generation of scientists, physicians, and healthcare professionals. This includes offering graduate and postdoctoral programmes, workshops, seminars, and continuing medical education opportunities.
04
Patient Care and Support
Improve patient outcomes by integrating research with clinical practice. Develop personalized medicine approaches tailored to individual patients’ genetic and molecular profiles. Offer support services for patients and their families, including counseling, rehabilitation, and palliative care.
05
Collaboration and Partnerships
Foster collaboration between researchers, clinicians, academic institutions, and industry partners. Participate in national and international research networks and consortia to share knowledge, resources, and technology.
06
Public Outreach and Advocacy
Raise public awareness about cancer and stem cell research. Engage with the community through public lectures, educational materials, and outreach programmes. Advocate for policies that support research funding, patient rights, and access to advanced treatments.
07
Ethical and Regulatory Compliance
Ensure that all research and clinical practices adhere to ethical guidelines and regulatory standards. Address ethical issues related to stem cell research, such as the use of embryonic stem cells and gene editing technologies.
By fulfilling these objectives, the Center of Cancer and Stem Cell Research aims to contribute significantly to the fight against cancer and the advancement of regenerative medicine, ultimately improving health outcomes and quality of life for patients worldwide.
Focus Area
The Centre for Cancer and Stem Cell Research envisions transforming cancer into a manageable and survivable disease through cutting-edge research, development, and innovation.
01
Cell & Stem Cell Biology
This scope focuses on understanding the fundamental biology of cells and stem cells, including how they develop, differentiate, and respond to various signals. The research supports both cancer and regenerative medicine by uncovering the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms driving health and disease.
Research Areas:
- Cell Genomics – Investigating the genetic makeup and mutations of cells to understand disease mechanisms.
- Bioinformatics – Applying computational tools to analyze complex biological data and uncover new insights.
- Cell Proteomics – Studying the full set of proteins expressed in cells to identify potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets.
- Epigenetic Induction/Modulation – Exploring how gene expression is regulated without altering DNA sequences to control cell behavior.
- Cell Regeneration Mechanisms – Understanding how cells regenerate and repair tissues for potential therapeutic applications.
02
Cell-based Innovation
This scope aims to develop novel products and technologies using cell-based systems for healthcare and therapeutic applications. It bridges research and translational efforts to bring cell-derived innovations closer to clinical and industry use.
Research Areas:
- Pre-clinical Model Development – Creating in vitro and in vivo models to test safety and efficacy of new therapies.
- Stem Cell Products – Developing applications and formulations involving stem cells for regenerative therapies.
- Biological Products – Innovating products derived from biological sources for medical or research use.
- Bioengineering Products – Integrating biology with engineering to design functional systems like organoids or biocompatible scaffolds.
- Cell-based Health Technology – Advancing tools and platforms that leverage cell technology for diagnosis, monitoring, or treatment.
- Cell-based Therapy – Developing therapeutic strategies that utilize living cells to treat diseases, especially cancers and degenerative conditions.
03
Cancer Diagnosis
This scope focuses on improving the early detection, stratification, and monitoring of cancer through various diagnostic approaches. It integrates molecular, pathological, and epidemiological tools to enhance precision and timeliness of cancer diagnosis.
Research Areas:
- Cancer Genomics – Decoding the genetic mutations and variations associated with different cancers.
- Cancer Biomarkers – Identifying molecular indicators for early detection, prognosis, or therapeutic response.
- Cancer Microbiome – Studying the role of microbial communities in cancer initiation and progression.
- Cancer Pathology – Exploring the cellular and tissue changes associated with cancer.
- Cancer Epidemiology – Analyzing patterns, causes, and effects of cancer in populations.
- Cancer Risk – Investigating genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contributing to cancer development.
- Cancer Modeling – Building biological or computational models to simulate cancer behavior.
- Cancer Monitoring – Developing tools and approaches to track disease progression and treatment response.
04
Cancer Treatment
This scope is dedicated to advancing therapeutic strategies for cancer through surgical, radiological, and pharmacological interventions. It supports the development and delivery of more precise and effective treatments.
Research Areas:
- Cancer Surgery – Enhancing surgical techniques and outcomes for cancer removal.
- Radiation & Radiopharmaceuticals – Improving the use of radiation and radioactive compounds in cancer therapy.
- Cancer Drug Discovery & Design – Identifying and designing new compounds with anticancer activity.
- Cancer Drug Delivery – Developing innovative methods to deliver drugs selectively to tumor sites with minimal side effects.
05
Cancer Care
This scope addresses the holistic management of cancer patients, encompassing physical, psychological, and social dimensions. It emphasizes multidisciplinary support, equitable access, and quality of life improvement across the cancer care continuum.
Research Areas:
- Medical Care – Optimizing clinical management and treatment regimens.
- Pharmaceutical Care – Enhancing medication safety, efficacy, and patient adherence.
- Dental Care – Managing oral health issues related to cancer and its treatments.
- Psychological Care – Supporting mental health and emotional resilience of cancer patients.
- Nutritional Care – Addressing dietary needs to support recovery and treatment.
- Nursing Care – Strengthening the role of nurses in providing comprehensive patient support.
- T&CM Care (Traditional & Complementary Medicine) – Exploring integrative approaches to cancer care.
- Data Stewardship – Managing and safeguarding patient data to support evidence-based decisions.
- Healthcare Economics – Evaluating the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of cancer care strategies.
- Healthcare Advocacy – Promoting patient rights, awareness, and community engagement.
- Healthcare Policy – Informing and shaping policies that enhance cancer prevention, care, and control.
Core Facilities
The Center of Cancer and Stem Cell Research has a range of core facilities to support its multidisciplinary research. These core facilities provide essential services, equipment, and expertise to facilitate cutting-edge research and clinical translation. Key core facilities include:
Strategic Plan
Strategic Goals and Objectives
- Enhance Research Excellence
- Expand Translational Research and Clinical Trials
- Advance Stem Cell Research and Therapy
- Promote Education and Training
- Foster Collaboration and Partnerships
- Ensure Sustainable Growth and Funding
- Uphold Ethical Standards and Regulatory Compliance
Services Offered
The Centre for Cancer and Stem Cell Research offers a comprehensive range of services to support its multifaceted mission. These services will cater to researchers, clinicians, patients, and the broader community. The list of services include:
Expertise / Team
Centre Head
Prof Ts Dr Mai Chun Wai
Senior Research Fellow & Professor, Institute for Research, Development and Innovation
Bioinformatics Core Facility
Dr Nurul Hanis Binti Ramzi
Research Fellow & Senior Lecturer, Institute for Research, Development and Innovation