Bubble zeros in on deadly tumours

UBC cancer researchers Tom Madden and Marcel Bally are trying to
get the bubble to burst. They are designing a new type of liposome
or fat bubble that can deliver anti-cancer drugs directly into tumours.
Bubbles containing the drugs are carried through the bloodstream
and accumulate at the tumour site. The researchers are testing a
new type of liposome that becomes unstable over time, either fusing
with cancer cells or releasing drugs directly into the tumour site.

  • Contact: Adjunct Prof. Tom Madden, Pharmacology and Therapeutics
    Dept., 604.822.2649

Better health care for elderly focus of program

Co-ordinating geriatrics health care research in B.C. is the aim
of a new position within the Faculty of Medicine. Pamela Brett,
geriatrics researcher in the Division of Community Geriatrics, will
help family doctors and investigators develop and implement research
projects and share findings. Brett will also form a community advisory
committee to provide advice and feedback on the research program.

  • Contact: Pamela Brett, geriatrics researcher, Family
    Practice Dept., (604) 875-4111, ext. 61438

Think About It — and support students

UBC wants people to “Think About It.” Specifically, the university
wants shoppers at the UBC Bookstore to consider purchasing umbrellas,
hats, mugs and T-shirts adorned with the Think About It – UBC slogan.
Ten per cent of proceeds raised from the sale of Think About It
products will be used to support student education and student research
programs at UBC. The idea originated with the Think About It
– UBC Research
public awareness campaign. “The fact is that
people don’t stop and think enough about the truly excellent research
that is being undertaken here at this university and what it means
to our economy and quality of life,” says Bernie Bressler, UBC vice-president,
Research.

  • Contact: Charles Ker, Research Awareness Campaign Co-ordinator,
    Public Affairs Office, 604.822.1266
  • Contact: Vickie McLeod, Marketing Co-ordinator, UBC Bookstore,
    604.822.0587

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