Childhood cancer immunotherapy program

Paediatric high-grade glioma (pHGG) is the deadliest form of central nervous system cancer, and the leading cause of disease-related mortality in children.

We are investigating how epigenetic changes in pHGG tumours contribute to immune evasion. The study aims to advance therapeutic strategies by exploring how combining epigenetic and immuno-therapies can yield more efficient treatments with fewer side effects.

Team: Dr Pouya Faridi, Dr Claire Sun

Collaborators: Children’s Cancer Institute, Children’s Medical Research Institute

Funder: MRFF

This project aims identify novel immunotherapy targets for the most devastating type of childhood brain tumour, Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). Brain tumours are the leading cause of cancer-related morbidity in children, and DIPG is the deadliest paediatric brain tumour. All efforts for DIPG treatment have been unsuccessful, and with a median survival rate of only nine months after diagnosis, there is an urgent need for viable therapeutic options. Cancer vaccination is an emerging approach for incurable cancers. We have developed new technologies and discovered new classes of vaccine targets. Our aim is to identify, validate and evaluate these vaccine targets to develop a preclinical data package for inclusion in future DIPG immunotherapy clinical studies.

Team: Dr Pouya Faridi, Dr Tima Shamekhi, Professor Ron Firestein

Funders: Victorian Cancer Agency, Cancer Australia

This project aims to identify novel immunotherapy targets for Ewing Sarcoma, a highly aggressive paediatric cancer.

Ewing Sarcoma is one of the most aggressive paediatric cancers, with limited treatment options and a poor prognosis, especially in cases of relapse. Current therapies often lead to severe long-term side effects, underscoring the urgent need for more effective and targeted treatments. Cancer vaccination is emerging as a promising strategy for such difficult-to-treat cancers. We have developed innovative technologies and identified new classes of vaccine targets. Our goal is to identify, validate, and evaluate these targets to develop a preclinical data package, paving the way for future immunotherapy clinical trials in Ewing Sarcoma.

Team: Dr Pouya Faridi, Grace Huang, A/Prof Jason Cain

Collaborators: A/Prof. Jason Cain

Funders: Generous donation from the Watts Family