CUSTOMIZING CANCER TREATMENT 

Some individual cells in a cancerous tumour may have a different chemical composition than the rest. As a result, a small percentage of cells may survive treatment, leading to a new drug-resistant tumour a major cause of the disease's recurrence.

A York University research project funded by the Ontario government through the Ontario Cancer Research Network, focused on the chemical analysis of single cancer cells. The researchers developed new tests and instruments for monitoring activity within cells, determining where they are in their life cycle and assessing their chemical content. This information makes it possible to anticipate how cells will respond to treatment and can be used to customize treatment for each patient, making it more effective in eradicating tumours.

This innovative project has helped create a powerful new technology for improving cancer treatment and patient care. A spin-off company has been formed to commercialize the findings associated with this project.