ACRF International Centre for Cancer Glycomics

The ACRF International Centre for Cancer Glycomics (ACRF I2CG)

All human cells are extensively decorated with a range of complex sugar moieties (glycans), which form the host cell glycome. These glycans are utilised as receptors for a variety of carbohydrate-recognising proteins, and the inter-cellular interactions between glycans and proteins play an essential role in how cells communicate with each other and their environment. Not surprisingly, they also play critical roles in maintaining health and in the pathogenesis of disease, including cancers. Yet, the language of glycan interactions remains poorly understood. The technology required to sequence the glycome for human clinical tissue has only recently been developed, and the ACRF I2CG is pioneering this field.

Our team of research scientists are dedicated to understanding cancer glycans and how we can exploit this knowledge to create new generation drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics.

A Call to Industry

Improving knowledge of the glycan structures present in cancer cells will lead to a better understanding of how to treat the most challenging forms of cancer. With advanced technological infrastructure, knowledge and exceptional human resource, the ACRF I2CG seeks a progressive foundational partner under a structured, 5-year program to systematically mine the cancer glycome with the goal of significantly enhancing the lives of cancer patients though this innovative and revolutionary science.