Welcome to the Tran Laboratory
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Our Research
The lab is focused on several aspects of microRNA (miRNA) research. The first is to understand the expression and role of miRNAs in the development of head and neck cancer. We are developing a suite of serum miRNA bio-markers for the early detection of oral and other subtypes of head and neck cancers. The technology known as miRacles has been patented and the lab is currently testing this kit in cancer patients. In addition, we are also investigating how these miRNAs regulate genes important to the progression of head and neck cancer. More recently, we have moved into profiling the ncRNA contents of exosomes derived from cancer cells. |
Non-invasive oral cancer diagnostic tool
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Listen to ABC Radio 7AM interviewed Sam Khoury and Nham Tran about their research into oral cancer
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Medical marvel in oral cancer detection
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Read our article published in the popular science magazine New Scientist.
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News Room
Team Photos
For the fifth year, the Tran laboratory will coordinate Daffodil day at the University of Technology site. A stall with fresh flowers and merchandise will be hosted in the FEIT building next to the information table.
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How Australia's HPV vaccine program is fighting cancer of the tonsils and throat (Published in SMH NOVEMBER 11 2016)
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Explainer: microRNA, the puppet master of the genomeWhat are miRNA?
MicroRNAs, are very small ncRNAs found in cells and only represent less than 0.1% of the entire mammalian transcriptome. However these tiny RNAs can control up to two thirds of gene expression in mammalian cells. Many miRNAs are dysregulated in common cancers such as those originating in the breast, lung, colon, liver, head and neck and the prostate. They are now regarded as key regulators in the process of tumourigenesis and given their impact on tumour biology, a plethora of studies have also suggested the use of miRNAs as potential biomarkers. Our lab is using miRNAs to act as diagnostic or prognostic markers in head and neck cancers. |
Boys should also get the HPV vaccine to protect themselves from oral and genital cancersWhat is HPV
The human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes cervical cancer in women, is also responsible for many cancers in men. It causes most cancers of the tonsils (known as oropharyngeal cancers), which are more common in men than women. HPV is also to blame for cancers of the anus, vulva, vagina and penis. The best way to prevent these cancers is to get the HPV vaccine, which is available for free under Australia’s National HPV Vaccination Program to boys and girls aged 12 and 13. |
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Our lab is part of The Translational Cancer Research Network (TCRN).
This group is a collaborative and interactive cancer research community based in the South East of Sydney, with links to cancer services and researchers in inner and southern Sydney, and Albury. It was formed to create an innovative and supportive environment for the translation of cancer research into improvements in patient care. Vertical Divider
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