IMPPC Fundación Institut de Medicina Predictiva i Personalitzada del Càncer

The Joint Program for Molecular Diagnostics of Cancer between the IMPPC and the ICO aims to combine efforts and resources to offer an integrated program focused on the study of hereditary and familial cancers. In the program genetic diagnostics, basic and applied research will be closely coordinated.

This program will collaborate with the Genetic Counseling Program and the Genetic Epidemiology of Cancer Program.

* Conxi Lázaro is based at the ICO,Bellvitge

Organization of the Program

ICO-IMPPC Joint Program for Molecular Diagnostics of Hereditary Cancer is co-directed by Dr Gabriel Capellà (ICO) and Dr Manuel Perucho (IMPPC).

 

The Program consists of three conceptually different units

The Genetic Diagnostics Unit concentrates on screening and detection of mutations and other genetic variations involved in hereditary cancers. It also uses a wide range of functional approaches to improve screening for and interpretation of the genetic alterations detected.

The Methodological and Technological Transfer Unit aims to develop and set up new tools and methodologies to improve screening, detection and interpretation of mutations or other genetic changes found in the genes governing hereditary cancers. This unit will respond to needs arising in the Genetic Diagnostics Unit due to advances in technology or methodology, whether they concern the genetic, molecular or cellular aspects.

The Research Unit will carry out research into aspects related to different hereditary cancers and the tumors that patients present.

Activities of the Program

The activities of the three units in the Joint Program are complementary and will focus on hereditary cancers, such as colorectal and breast amongst others.

Collaborations with other Programs

The Joint Program for Molecular Diagnostics of Cancer between the IMPPC and the ICO works closely with the Genetic Counseling Program (ICO) and the Genetic Epidemiology Program all within the Hereditary Cancer Group.
The main objective of the Genetic Counseling Program is to work to reduce the impact of cancer by identifying individuals and families with increased risk of developing cancer and the implementation of adequate prevention measures in each case. It is an integrated program which combines attending to clinical and psychosocial needs of the patient and family with clinical research and training. It guarantees equal access to its services throughout the region.

The Genetic Epidemiology Program carries out studies at population level to better understand how genetic variation in individuals predisposes them to develop cancer, taking into account biological and environmental causes.

This close relation between programs ensures that the Hereditary Cancer Group provides a fully multidisciplinary approach to hereditary and familial cancer.

Link to Dr C Lázaro`s group

Link to Genetic Counseling Program (ICO)