Translational oncology
The Translational Oncology Research Group is dedicated to bridging the gap between basic cancer research, clinical and public health practice to improve patient outcomes. This group operates at the forefront of oncological research, focusing on the translation of laboratory findings into new diagnostic tools and approaches, treatments, and therapeutic strategies for cancer patients, including those who are hard-to-reach, but are recognized as those most at risk. The scope of its activities encompasses genomic and metabolomic profiling of tumors, development and banking of oncology bio-samples, and exploration of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Our Group is committed to achieve several key objectives that underscore its mission to advance the field of oncology. The group is dedicated to conducting cutting-edge research aimed at uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying various forms of cancer and seeking to unravel the complexities of the disease at the genetic and molecular levels. In pursuit of personalized medicine, the group will continue to focus on identifying biomarkers that can guide therapeutic decisions and tailor treatments to the individual characteristics of cancer patients. Furthermore, the group aims to enhance the precision of cancer prevention, diagnosis and the effectiveness of treatments by integrating genomic, metabolomic, and proteomic data, thereby improving outcomes for cancer patients. An essential objective of the group is to facilitate the transition of promising laboratory discoveries into clinical trials and, ultimately, into standard care practices, bridging the gap between research and patient care including cancer survivors. Finally, the group invests and contributes to promote new discoveries and innovations, namely new targets and therapies as well as new surgical techniques. Hugo Pinto Marques, the last researcher joining the group, performed this year, the first liver transplant using robotics surgery.