The Tumor Immunology Group was established in mid 1984 and currently focuses on how the body responds to the presence of cancer and how this knowledge can be used for the benefit of patients ie. in diagnosis or therapy. We are also studying other aspects of immunology, which are listed below. 

1    Tumour immunology:

We turned our attention onto the induction of tumour-specific T cell responses and their regulation during tumor progression. We use sophistiacted tumour models which utilise gene transfection technology to evaluate this.
We also use modern molecular (DNA and proteomic) techniques to identify tumour associated antigens, ie molecules in cancer cells which the body makes immune responses to naturally during tumor growth, to which we can force the immune system to respond to with new treatment strategies. if we can succeed we will be able to develop new approaches to treating cancer. 

2.  Clinical immunotherapy trials

In all of our laboratory studies we attempt to generate new information which may be useful for patients with solid malignancies. We have conducted clinical trials utilising the patients own tumor in vaccines with recombinant cytolines sujch as GMCSF, recombinant human IL2 plus autologous LAK cells administered locally in patients with pleural tumours, systemic alpha 2a and alpha 2b interferon ± adriamycin, continuous intralesional infusion of recombinant human cytokines (IFN(2b and GM-CSF) and, most recently, gene therapy using vaccinia-IL2 constructs, again administered directly intratumorally.

For recent papers from our group go to http://www.brucerobinson.com.au/publications.html

Location of the Group
Our Group is based within the University Department of Medicine Academic Unit at QEII Medical Centre, 4^th Floor, G Block, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Monash Avenue, Nedlands  6009, Perth, Western Australia.  In addition some members of the Group have clinical links within the Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Hollywood Respiratory Group at Hollywood Private Hospital and Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital.  We are also a member of the WA Institute for Medical Research with involvement in the Cancer and Lung Programs.

Contact Details
University Department of Medicine,  91 8  9346 2005
E-mail:          branigam@cyllene.uwa.edu.au
WWW:         http://www.medicine.uwa.edu.au/groups/index.htm

MISSION STATEMENT OF THE TUMOR IMMUNOLOGY GROUP

 As a group our aims are to:

•       Conduct high quality research into host immunology, particularly host anti-tumour immune responses, and in the diseease mesothelioma.

• ·     To develop and conduct clinical trials in cancer patients, particularly using immunotherapy approaches.

• ·     To publish our work in the highest impact factor journals.

• ·     To provide a stimulating scientific environment for scientists, clinicians and students

• ·     To stay abreast of recent developments in our field via a program of journal clubs, data presentations, seminars and visits to the group of senior scientists.

• ·     To work together to help each other in our scientific endeavours by freely sharing our knowledge and experience and by assisting each other in the pursuit of our scientific goals.

• ·     To perform all of our work to the highest standards of ethical behaviour.