BREAKTHROUGH MEDICAL RESEARCH
2017 Annual Report GARVAN INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL RESEARCH MISSION AND VISION
To make significant contributions to medical research that will change the directions of science and medicine and have major impacts on human Respect Passion health. Garvan’s ultimate goal is prevention and treatment of major diseases. Collaboration Values Excellence
Innovation Integrity
Who we are, Aspirations • To attract, develop and support exceptionally talented what we do • To become the most researchers with leading‑edge advanced institute in the programs addressing key Garvan is leading the nation region in the adoption, conceptual and practical in using genomic analysis to application and integration of questions in human biology, accelerate discovery and enable next‑generation genomic and and the translation of new personalised, precision medicine. computational approaches and knowledge and technologies technologies in investigative into clinical applications. Our researchers pioneer and translational research. studies into some of the most • To embrace and uphold a culture widespread diseases affecting • To advance knowledge in our of collegiality, collaboration, the community today. Garvan is key areas of focus that will inclusivity, consideration, focused on understanding the lead to better understanding, safety, transparency, and role of molecular and cellular reduced incidence and high ethical standards. processes in health and disease improved treatments for cancer, as the basis for developing future osteoporosis, diabetes, obesity, • To engage stakeholders preventions and treatments. and immunological, skeletal and and the community with our neurological diseases, and achievements and research For 55 years, Garvan to influence health policy. vision so that we attract the scientists have been achieving significant government and significant breakthroughs donor support needed in the understanding and to empower our treatment of diseases. transformative agenda. 2017 A year of research EXCELLENCE &SUCCESS
Mayan Amiezer, Intravital Microscopy PhD student, Immunology Division. THE ORGANISATION As at 31 December 2017
GARVAN INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL RESEARCH
BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE
Chair Dr John Schubert AO Executive Director Prof John Mattick AO FAA FTSE Deputy Director Prof Chris Goodnow FAA FRS Chief Operating Officer Philip Knox Chief Scientific Officer Dr Marie Dziadek
GARVAN RESEARCH FOUNDATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE
Chair Geoff Dixon Chief Executive Officer Andrew Giles Director of Philanthropy, Bequests and Campaigns Mara-Jean Tilley Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications Brad Timms
RESEARCH DIVISIONS
BONE BIOLOGY CANCER DIABETES AND METABOLISM
Head Prof Peter Croucher Head Prof David Thomas Head Prof Mark Febbraio Faculty Faculty Faculty A/Prof Paul Baldock A/Prof Maija Kohonen-Corish Prof Trevor Biden Prof Jacqueline Center A/Prof Elgene Lim Prof Lesley Campbell AM Prof John Eisman AO Prof Chris Ormandy Prof Don Chisholm AO Prof Tuan Nguyen A/Prof Alex Swarbrick Prof Jerry Greenfield Prof Mike Rogers A/Prof Paul Timpson Prof Ted Kraegen Prof Neil Watkins A/Prof Ross Laybutt Prof Katherine Samaras The Kinghorn Cancer Centre A/Prof Carsten Schmitz-Peiffer Director Prof David Thomas
IMMUNOLOGY GENOMICS AND EPIGENETICS NEUROSCIENCE
Head Prof Stuart Tangye Head Prof Susan Clark FAA Head A/Prof Antony Cooper Faculty Faculty Faculty Prof Antony Basten AO FAA FTSE Dr Ozren Bogdanovic Prof Herbert Herzog Prof Robert Brink A/Prof Marcel Dinger Prof John Mattick AO FAA FTSE A/Prof Daniel Christ Prof Vanessa Hayes Prof David Ryugo Dr Tatyana Chtanova A/Prof Tim Mercer Dr Elissa Deenick Prof Seán O’Donoghue Prof Chris Goodnow FAA FRS Prof John Shine AO FAA A/Prof Shane Grey Kinghorn Centre for Clinical A/Prof Cecile King Genomics Head A/Prof Marcel Dinger A/Prof Tri Phan Prof Jonathan Sprent FAA FRS
DEVELOPMENT AND SUPPORT
Chief Operating Officer Philip Knox Chief Scientific Officer Dr Marie Dziadek Australian BioResources Dr Jenny Kingham Grants Administration Sonja Bates, Grainne Mullen Partnerships Christina Hardy Student Programs Dr Tracy Anderson Finance and Accounting Samantha Malone Animal Ethics, Governance and Compliance Dr Rayson Tan Human Resources Simon Hamilton Animal Welfare Dr Vivian Song Information Technology Jackson Chan Human Research Governance Therese Yim Operations Michael Emerson WHS and Compliance Lisa Moncur
GENOME.ONE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE
Chair Paul Brassil Chief Executive Officer A/Prof Marcel Dinger
2 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Contents
4 The Organisation 29 Finding answers to autoimmune disease 4 Garvan Institute Chairman’s Report 30 Division Report: Immunology
5 Garvan Institute Executive 33 Accelerating single-cell Director’s Report understanding
6 Garvan Research Foundation 34 Division Report: Neuroscience Chairman’s Report 37 Supporting career goals 7 Garvan Research Foundation CEO’s Report 38 Centre Report: Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics 8 The year at a glance 40 Genome.One – the frontier 9 Garvan at a glance of precision medicine
10 Working together: collaboration 42 Driving change through beyond Garvan collaboration
11 Publications 44 Garvan Institute of Medical Research Board of Directors 12 Division Report: Bone Biology 46 Garvan Research Foundation 15 A family philosophy Board of Directors of philanthropy 48 Awards and achievements 16 Division Report: Cancer 50 PhD completions 19 For the love of Connie 51 Post-doc development 20 Genomic cancer medicine now a reality 52 In memoriam
21 Childhood cancer clinical 53 Leaders in science and trial goes national society seminars
22 Division Report: Diabetes 54 Partners for the Future and Metabolism 56 Garvan community 25 Smart power for cancer research 60 Peer-reviewed funding 26 Division Report: Genomics and Epigenetics 64 Financial highlights
A digital version of this report is available at garvan.org.au/2017‑annualreport .
We would like to acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional owners and custodians of the land on which the Garvan Institute of Medical Research is located. We pay respects to the Elders, past, present and future, and recognise the continuing connection and contribution to this land.
GARVAN.ORG.AU 3 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
Dr John Schubert AO your journey with cancer, and for here at Garvan, which through his outlining the difference that the Program leadership has become one of the Chairman, Garvan Institute is making, for you and for your family. world’s leading clinical genomics of Medical Research centres. I’d like to take this opportunity As always, I thank all the members to wish John well in his new role, What a year it has been. Garvan’s of both the Institute and Foundation and to thank him warmly for his years researchers, clinicians and thought Boards of Directors, who donate their of exemplary service to Garvan and leaders have achieved a great deal time and expertise freely for the benefit to Australian medical research. in 2017: producing major research of Garvan. I welcome Professor Tony that will impact on clinical practice, Kelleher who joined the board this year. I am delighted that Professor Chris translating that research into Goodnow FAA FRS will succeed John tangible benefits for patients, and It has been a great pleasure to work as Executive Director. Chris is one of influencing policy and strategic closely with Mr Geoff Dixon, the Australia’s most outstanding scientists, directions for NSW and Australia. long‑time Chair of the Garvan Research with a remarkable track record in Foundation, who completed his time applying genomic analysis to the A particular highlight of the year was as Chair this year. I wish Geoff the very diagnosis and treatment of immune the launch, in August, of our Australian best, and look forward to working with disease. Since 2015, when Chris arrived Genomic Cancer Medicine Program. his successor, Mr Russell Scrimshaw. at Garvan as Deputy Director, we have The Program, which matches therapies come to know him as a scientist of with individuals on the basis of genetic Garvan simply could not do the work exceptional ability and foresight, and as information, was launched by the it does without the many generous a leader of great vision and warmth. Hon Brad Hazzard, NSW Minister for and committed people and groups Health, alongside Professor David who support us. Please know that With Chris at the helm, Garvan is Thomas (Head, Cancer Division; your contribution – whether you well‑placed to continue to implement Director, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre) give financial support or your time our strategic vision – transformative and Professor John Simes (Director, – is crucial and highly valued. science leading to clinical impact across NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre). a wide range of major diseases. As I write this report in early 2018, the For me, the most powerful moment Board has recently announced that We look forward to making an even of the launch was hearing from Darin Garvan’s Executive Director, Professor greater impact on human health in Mallawaraachchi – a grandfather whose John Mattick AO FAA FTSE, is to take 2018 as the wonderful Garvan team rare bone cancer is being treated up a new role as the Chief Executive continues on our mission to impact through the Molecular Screening and Officer at Genomics England. This powerfully on human health and to Therapeutics trial (a key part of the prestigious appointment is recognition bring that breakthrough research program). Thank you, Darin, for sharing of John’s considerable successes directly to patients in the clinic.
4 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Professor John We have led several initiatives in I thank our remarkable community of genomics and big data, which are set supporters, whose generous support Mattick AO FAA FTSE to transform the understanding and makes our crucial work possible. treatment of disease. These include: My thanks go to our Division Heads, Executive Director, Garvan • the Garvan-Weizmann Centre for Chief Scientific Officer Marie Dziadek Institute of Medical Research Cellular Genomics – an initiative of our and outgoing Chief Operating Officer wide-ranging partnership with Israel’s Philip Knox who’ve provided wonderful 2017 has been a landmark year for Weizmann Institute of Science, and leadership. I also thank the rest of the Garvan, and it has been satisfying to the only multidisciplinary centre of outstanding Garvan team – researchers, see the progress we have made. Our its kind in the southern hemisphere. support staff, students and the central mission is to undertake medical This partnership would not have Foundation – who together make research that informs our understanding been possible without the insight Garvan such an extraordinary place. of human biology and leads to improved and advocacy of Garvan Institute disease outcomes, so I am delighted Board Director Ms Jillian Segal AM. I have recently accepted a new that we have had so many achievements • Garvan’s Australian Genomic Cancer leadership role at Genomics England this year. Among others, we: Medicine Program: an innovative suite and will be moving on in mid-2018. • made major advances towards of clinical trials, now well underway, My six years here have been among targeted treatments for that matches therapies with individuals the most fulfilling of my career. I am pancreatic and other cancers; on the basis of genetic information. proud that Garvan is now one of the • uncovered a new approach that could • the Garvan-Deakin Program in world’s leading genomic centres, make islet cell transplants feasible for Advanced Genomic Investigation, pioneering the next generation of millions of people with type 1 diabetes; a strategic partnership with the Centre medical research and precision • identified a new approach for Pattern Recognition and Data healthcare. I will miss this outstanding to rebuilding bone; Analysis at Deakin University, which place, and its people, very much. • showed that whole-body MRI detects will use machine learning and artificial pre-symptomatic cancers in people intelligence to gain insights from data. I am delighted that Professor Chris with a high genetic cancer risk; Goodnow FAA FRS will succeed me • demonstrated that the way our In December, Garvan reached a major as Executive Director. Chris is an DNA is packaged may influence the milestone of 17,000 whole genomes outstanding researcher and leader, who I progression of prostate cancer; sequenced. This reflects Garvan’s position have been privileged to work closely with. • showed how our immune at the forefront of clinical genomics. The Institute could not be in better hands system’s ‘memory’ can make 2017 has also seen the finalisation of – I will watch with great pride as Chris vaccinations highly effective; and our 2017-2021 Strategic Plan, which takes Garvan from strength to strength • created a new way to study the will ensure Garvan continues to drive in the pursuit of better health through development of Parkinson’s disease. change for the health of Australians. leading-edge research and technology.
GARVAN.ORG.AU 5 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
Geoff Dixon During my eight years in this privileged Before acknowledging the Board of position, the calibre of work from Directors, I’d like to make a special Chairman, Garvan Garvan researchers, underpinned by mention of Mr Russell Scrimshaw, Research Foundation the vision and generosity of our donors, who will take my place as Chair of the has never ceased to amaze me. Garvan Research Foundation from My final year as Chair of the Garvan 2018. Russell has an enormously Research Foundation has been The ongoing philanthropic investment impressive career in Australian a momentous one for Garvan. of individuals and organisations business, and his dedication to – in particular our many long-term Garvan is undeniable – he is a major In 2017, many game-changing supporters, including The Kinghorn donor, and a member of both research initiatives were achieved. Foundation, Mrs Janice Gibson and Garvan Boards of Directors and the These simply would not have the Ernest Heine Family Foundation, Genome.One Board of Directors. happened without support from Mr Len Ainsworth, Mrs Jane the community. These included: Hemstritch, The Bill and Patricia It has been an honour to work with • The launch of the Garvan-Weizmann Ritchie Foundation, Mrs Margaret and get to know the many inspiring Centre for Cellular Genomics, Rose AM, Mr & Mrs Alan and Lynne and altruistic individuals who have a state-of-the-art facility with only Rydge, Mr John Roth and Ms Jillian made up the boards of the Garvan recently available technology. It was Segal AM, The Paramor Family, Mr Research Foundation and Garvan made possible through a combined & Mrs John and Megan Wade, Ms Institute during the years I have served gift of $10 million from three Lysia O’Keefe and The NELUNE on both bodies. Thank you to them all. visionary donors – Mr John Roth Foundation – has been absolutely and Ms Jillian Segal AM, Mr and crucial to Garvan’s success. I also must acknowledge Professor Mrs Laurie and Di Sutton, and the John Mattick’s service to Garvan Johnny Kahlbetzer Family – as Each person who supports Garvan, as Executive Director for the last well as the NSW Government. by remembering us in their Will six years. His leadership and vision • The Australian Genomic Cancer as a Partner for the Future, giving has taken Garvan to new heights. Medicine Program, a clinical trial monthly, fundraising in their community I congratulate Professor Chris for rare and uncommon cancers, or asking for donations in memory of Goodnow on his new appointment; is being made available to cancer loved ones, makes a tangible impact. Garvan will thrive under his headship. patients nationally. It has received significant support from organisations The leadership team of the Garvan Finally, a sincere thank you to all of like IAG and the Vodafone Foundation, Research Foundation, Andrew Giles, you who have supported Garvan’s along with individuals like Mara-Jean Tilley and Brad Timms, researchers. I look forward to seeing Mr and Mrs Paul and Wendy Jeans continue to strive for greatness in Garvan continue to understand more and the Norma Wilson Trust. supporting Garvan’s research. about disease and improve healthcare.
6 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS CEO’S REPORT
Andrew Giles of medical research. Most importantly, world’s leading genomics research we work with you – our team of institutes. His departure to Genomics Chief Executive Officer, generous supporters – to enable England is an opportunity for Garvan Garvan Research Foundation Garvan’s vital research projects. to collaborate more closely with genomics organisations throughout The Garvan Research Foundation and Garvan leadership has been a key Europe. Garvan will undoubtedly Garvan Institute have achieved yet element of 2017. After eight years remain in valuable connection with another noteworthy year thanks to as the Chair of the Garvan Research Professor Mattick during the next the generosity of our community. Foundation, Mr Geoff Dixon retired exciting chapter of his illustrious career. from our Board of Directors. Geoff Our researchers have launched new has chaired the organisation for my Like many here at Garvan, I was initiatives and published significant entire time at the Foundation. delighted with the appointment findings that will change the face of of Professor Chris Goodnow as healthcare. We launched the Australian Under his leadership, the Foundation Garvan’s next Executive Director. Genomic Cancer Medicine Program has received more than $200 million Professor Goodnow is a world- (page 20), opened the Garvan- in donations to support the work of renowned scientist, and his drive Weizmann Centre for Cellular Genomics researchers at the Garvan. I cannot do will see Garvan continue on its (page 33), laid important groundwork to justice to Geoff’s contribution to Garvan trajectory of success and innovation. establish a clinical trial for Parkinson’s in a few short words. Suffice to say we disease (page 36) and prediabetes are, and will continue to be, incredibly I’m sincerely grateful to our entire (page 24) and developed public and grateful for his guidance and dedication. community of donors, volunteers medical awareness of genomics and vocal advocates – individuals, and diseases like osteoporosis. Our incoming Chair, Mr Russell Partners for the Future, groups, Scrimshaw, brings a wealth of organisations and ambassadors – Within the Foundation, our remit is to experience and a unique understanding your commitment and contribution support the work of the Institute. During of Garvan, as he has served as to research inspires our scientists. 2017, our team has grown to almost a member of the boards for the 30 dedicated individuals. The expertise Garvan Institute, Foundation and I’ve said it before … we’re at a tipping and passion within this small but our subsidiary Genome.One. point in medical research. The powerful part of the Institute is critical. technology and expertise within Professor John Mattick, Executive Garvan is moving us ever-closer to We raise the profile of our scientists, Director of the Garvan Institute, has a revolution in healthcare. Thank you promote their work and join with other also announced his resignation. In his for joining and supporting us on the like-minded organisations to create six years as Director, Professor Mattick journey. Your support continues to a stronger voice about the significance transformed Garvan into one of the make a real difference to our work.
GARVAN.ORG.AU 7 THE YEAR AT A GLANCE
The year-on-year movement from surplus to deficit is a consequence of several factors. The Garvan Research Foundation continued to receive generous support from a wide cross-section of the community in 2017; however, donations unexpectedly declined by almost $7 million compared to 2016. Additionally, the Institute made significant but necessary investments in start-up research support and underwriting of Garvan’s scientists, as well as in Genome.One.
Other income $6,642 NHMRC grants $14,795
Sequencing and facility charges $20,961 Peer-reviewed and other grants Total Income $12,098 $101,199 NHMRC and UNSW infrastructure $3,423
Donations and bequests $ 27,024 NSW Government support $16,256
Building and scientific Finance costs $1,452 expenses $6,826 Fundraising expenses $3,260
Administration expense $11,116
Total Expenditure Depreciation Employment and amortisation costs $52,597 expense $11,502 $110,680
Research expense $14,199
Sequencing consumable As at 31 December 2017 expense $9,728 All figures are A$’000 Philanthropic income
$50,000 $49,359
$40,000 $33,985 Philanthropic income $30,000 $27,024 $25,434 with bequests $23,000 $24,245 $21,622 $20,000 $20,963 Philanthropic income $18,067 without bequests $10,000 $15,377
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
8 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS GARVAN AT A GLANCE
Research staff by Division As at 31 December 2017
Neuroscience Bone Total Staff Biology
Immunology 747 38 50
71
415 159 Cancer
KCCG and 106 Genome.One 332
Average age 59 59
40yrs Genomics Diabetes and and Epigenetics Metabolism
Honours and Undergraduate students 9 Masters students 2 PhD students 75 Scientific support 99 Visiting scientists 126 Visiting students 33 Research staff 274 Foundation staff 29 Development and Support Group 100
Public and community engagement and education 400 135 652 330 ATTENDED ATTENDED ATTENDED ATTENDED 25 PUBLIC TOURS SMALL GROUP TOURS 4 PUBLIC SEMINARS 11 EXTERNAL PRESENTATIONS 388 278 400 280 ATTENDED ATTENDED ATTENDED ATTENDED 3 SYMPOSIUMS & COURSES 4 KCCG SHOWCASES 4 FILM SCREENINGS 1 CAREERS DAY
GARVAN.ORG.AU 9 Working together Collaboration beyond Garvan
Key partnerships and Collaborating within Australia joint endeavours
Ambitious and collaborative endeavours of many kinds – both on a national and an international scale – are essential to modern medical research. NT 2 Qld 46 Here are the many locations that Garvan connects with WA to allow us to advance our 21 groundbreaking discoveries. SA 24 The numbers refer to NSW/ACT joint publications with 245 other institutions.
Vic 79
Ta s 1
Collaborating around the world
UK 68 N. America Europe 100 84 Israel 6 Asia 37
Africa 4
S. America 5 NZ 7
10 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Peer-reviewed Publications funding 21 successful 362 total publications 93 papers in journals with Garvan-led research in 2017, including journal an impact factor greater than 8. grants (45%) articles, reports, reviews, were written in letters and book chapters. 289 original research papers. collaboration with one or more Cover issues partner institutions. Abolhassani et al., 11 grants led by J Exp Med 2017; other institutions 214:91-106. included Garvan “Combined impact as a partner. immunodeficiency and of an academic journal is a measure Epstein-Barr virus– reflecting the yearly average number induced B cell malignancy of citations to recent articles. Read about Garvan’s in humans with inherited CD70 deficiency” key partnerships Haddad and Nakamura, Vennin et al., Sci Transl and collaborations in Cell Chem Biol Med 2017; 9: eaai8504 2017; 24:1-10 “Transient tissue priming 2017 in these stories “PINK1-based screen via ROCK inhibition shines light on uncouples pancreatic 20 Genomic cancer autophagy enhancers for cancer progression, medicine now a reality Parkinson’s disease” sensitivity to chemotherapy, and metastasis” 21 Childhood cancer clinical trial goes national Oakes et al., PLOS Genet Emmett et al., J Nu Med 2017; 13:e1007072 2017; 58:1972-1976 25 Smart power for “A mutation in “Treatment outcomes cancer research the viral sensor from 68GaPSMA PET CT 2’-5’-oligoadenylate informed salvage radiation 29 Finding answers to synthetase 2 causes treatment in men with autoimmune disease failure of lactation” rising PSA following radical prostatectomy: 33 Accelerating single- prognostic value of cell understanding a negative PSMA PET” Papers in key journals 37 Supporting career goals 3 Cell 40 The frontier of precision medicine 1 Cell Metabolism
42 Driving change through 3 Immunity collaboration 2 Journal of Clinical Oncology
2 The Lancet
2 Nature Publications Report 3 Nature Genetics 86% For a full listing of Garvan’s 2017 of Garvan’s publications in 2017 were authored in collaboration with 1 Nature Medicine publications, please visit researchers from other institutes. garvan.org.au/2017-publications. 1 Science
GARVAN.ORG.AU 11 garvan.org.au/bone-biology Division Report: Bone Biology
Our strong clinical focus requires Research highlight close association with St Vincent’s Hospital and with the team at Garvan’s Osteoporosis study osteoporosis clinic in Dubbo. We have several major international identifies 150 new collaborations, including the Origins of Bone and Cartilage Disease genetic risk sites Consortium with Imperial College London and the Wellcome Trust In the largest ever study of its kind, Sanger Institute at Cambridge, as researchers have identified over 150 well as a close relationship with new sites in the human genome that the Weizmann Institute in Israel. are linked to low bone mineral density and to an increased risk of fracture. The Where do you see Bone Biology’s international team included Professor research heading? Peter Croucher and Scott Youlten. Professor Peter Croucher We can now examine the entire genome, as well as the activity of every The researchers examined genetic From the Head cell within bone and bone marrow. and clinical information relating to This is enabling us to challenge skeletal 150,000 individuals and identified 150 Describe your Division’s goal. disease on a scale that was previously new associated sites in the genome, Our vision is to eradicate skeletal unimaginable. We will define the effectively tripling the number of disease through more accurate entire cellular and molecular landscape known sites. They went on to look prediction and more targeted therapy. of the skeleton, including the micro- in depth at each site, exploring their environment within the marrow. likely impact in cells, preclinical models What’s your Division’s main and through predictive modelling. research focus? Having a complete understanding of the Understanding all the genes that genes that regulate bone will produce The findings vastly increase our control the skeleton. We are using important advances for management understanding of how our genes this knowledge to develop new tests of skeletal disease. In combination affect our bone health, and suggest to predict who will develop skeletal with our long-standing clinical studies a number of promising therapeutic diseases, such as osteoporosis and in Dubbo and collaborators overseas, approaches for osteoporosis. cancers that grow in bone, to better we will harness the power of genetics identify who requires treatment to improve the prediction of skeletal Kemp et al., Nat Genet 49:1468-1475. DOI: and to develop better treatments. disease. This will provide a platform to 10.1038/ng.3949 produce a sophisticated genetic test to Which Divisions within Garvan do identify those at risk of skeletal disease. Research highlight you work most closely with? In this manner, we aim to initiate therapy One of the fundamental bone cells, before the catastrophic outcomes Muscle weakness the osteoclast, which resorbs bone, is of fracture and deformity occur. derived from immune cells. We work and mortality closely with the Immunology Division, Finally, through a growing most recently in breakthrough imaging understanding of how these genes Garvan’s world-leading Dubbo studies that have revealed novel produce their effects in bone, we aim Osteoporosis Epidemiology Study biology for these cells. These findings to develop new treatments, better has led to a new understanding of the have informed our current studies into targeted to those who will respond impact of bone fractures on the lives the devastating outcomes of bone the best and benefit the most. In of those with osteoporosis. One key cancers, which involve the Cancer and this manner we aim to better tailor finding has been that breaking a bone Genomics and Epigenetics Divisions. therapy to each patient’s needs. leads to an increased risk of premature Another area of research involves mortality – but the reasons for this the interactions of the skeleton with Much of this work is being made have not been well understood. metabolism, on which we collaborate possible through the generous with Neuroscience and, more support of Mrs Janice Gibson and Professor Tuan Nguyen and his team recently, Diabetes and Metabolism. the Ernest Heine Family Foundation. explored whether muscle weakness
12 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Marcelo Sergio, Bone Biology Senior Research Assistant, and Dr Ryan Chai, Research Officer.
GARVAN.ORG.AU 13 plays a role in post-fracture mortality. Research highlight Research Laboratories The researchers looked at 25 years of and Groups data from the Dubbo Study, involving Proteins on the over 1100 study participants, and Bone Biology Lab Head: compared muscle strength before loose in a debilitating Prof Peter Croucher and after fracture, and mortality. childhood disease Bone Microenvironment Group The researchers found that muscle Leader: Dr Michelle McDonald weakness does indeed increase the Professor Mike Rogers, Head of the risk of death after most osteoporotic Bone Therapeutics Laboratory, and Bone Therapeutics Lab fracture types. “Low muscle strength his team have shown that a family of Head: Prof Mike Rogers also increases the risk of osteoporotic untethered proteins builds up in the cells fracture,” says Professor Nguyen. of those with the rare genetic condition Clinical Studies and Epidemiology Early interventions to improve muscle mevalonate kinase deficiency (MKD). Lab Head: Prof Jacqueline Center strength in older Australians might Those with MKD experience repeated decrease both fracture itself, and and frequent inflammatory ‘flares’, Genetic Epidemiology of the risk of mortality after fracture. which cause severe bone and joint pain, Osteoporosis Lab Head: can last for days and are accompanied Prof Tuan Nguyen Pham et al., J Bone Miner Res 2017; 698-707. by a wide range of other symptoms. DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.3037 These usually begin in infancy. Osteoporosis and Translational Research Lab Research highlight The team showed that, within blood Head: Prof John Eisman cells of people with MKD, proteins A new way to from the Rab family had no isoprenoid Skeletal Metabolism Lab ‘tail’. Without this, the proteins are Head: A/Prof Paul Baldock rebuild bone free to move into other parts of the cell, which could set off the disease Dr Michelle McDonald and her team process, triggering inflammation and Celebrating giving have demonstrated a new therapeutic causing joint pain. This feature could approach that can rebuild and be used to fast-track diagnosis – David and Dulcie Henshall, of the David strengthen bone. The finding offers a process that is often protracted. and Dulcie Henshall Foundation, have hope for those with the debilitating been major Garvan donors since bone cancer, multiple myeloma. Munoz et al., J Allergy Clin Immunol 2017; 2016. They have funded cutting edge 140:873–875. DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2017.02.033 technologies that have enabled highly The current treatment for detailed analysis of bone and body myeloma-associated bone disease, News highlight composition in live mice, through bisphosphonate drugs, prevents further processes identical to those used in bone loss but doesn’t restore damaged Autoinflammatory the clinic to assess human disease. bones. The researchers speculated that if they could inhibit the protein diseases workshop What does medical research sclerostin, which halts bone formation mean to you? in healthy bones, they could reverse When is a rare disease not rare? When Improving the health of the nation. the myeloma-associated bone loss. one room contains many of Australia’s known cases, plus their families and What inspired your first gift to Garvan? In a mouse model, researchers revealed doctors, and the clinical experts and We received a Breakthrough that an anti-sclerostin antibody therapy researchers who are working towards magazine a couple of years ago, not only prevented further bone loss, it a better understanding of their condition. which described genome sequencing, doubled bone volume in some mice. Such was the case at Garvan’s and found it intensely interesting. Autoinflammatory Diseases Workshop. Dr McDonald, who co-led the research What’s been the biggest reward? with Professor Peter Croucher, While inflammation is a normal Seeing reports outlining the says, “Before and after treatment, immune response, in some people this painstaking yet methodical approach the difference was remarkable – malfunctions and causes damage to by scientists in chasing down we saw fewer lesions or ‘holes’ in the body, including bones and joints. the mysteries of bone cancer. the bones. These lesions are the Professor Mike Rogers, along with Dr primary cause of bone pain, so this Marcia Munoz and Associate Professor What’s your dream for is an extremely important result.” Tri Phan, created the workshop to healthcare in the future? connect professionals in this area with Quicker and less expensive diagnosis McDonald et al., Blood 2017; 129:3452‑3464. people who live with autoinflammatory of disease and a greater number of DOI: 10.1182/blood-2017-03-773341 disease. A follow-up is planned for 2019. efficient treatments available.
14 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS A family philosophy of philanthropy
Well-known in Sydney and Cellular Genomics,” Lauren explains, Kinghorn Cancer Centre provide NSW for their role in the motor adding, “And, as a result of my exposure a transport service to make it easier industry, the Sutton family were to the incredible staff at Garvan, for patients to attend appointments. supporters of St Vincent’s Hospital I became involved in the establishment for many years. They became of Young Garvan.” Young Garvan is Of his role in assisting the Garvan supporters of Garvan in 1997. a volunteer group of young professionals and Weizmann Institutes to establish who support and raise awareness of the joint Centre, Laurie says, “After the diagnosis of my mother Garvan’s work as well as raise funds “Such a cutting-edge centre right Barbara with pancreatic cancer, to support Garvan’s young scientists. here in Sydney, and consequent we realised how important the expansion in Garvan’s research research conducted by Garvan is,” Suttons has also become a corporate capabilities is very exciting.” says Lauren Sutton, Manager of sponsor of Garvan. “Our staff are Charity Partnerships for Suttons. very proud of the partnership we have The Centre houses a range of new with Garvan,” says Lauren. “It was technologies that can look more closely The Sutton family requested that, in a privilege to recently take 35 of our at a cell than ever before, helping lieu of flowers at Barbara’s funeral, executive staff on a tour of the facility researchers to understand what donations be made to Garvan. – showing them firsthand the incredible makes each unique and exploring how Laurie Sutton, Managing Director work being done and allowing them it functions in health and disease. of Suttons, then proudly joined the to meet the amazing Garvan staff.” Garvan Research Foundation board. To describe the Sutton’s longstanding Suttons is now providing two connection with Garvan, Lauren “My father has continued to support vehicles to Garvan as part of their explains, “Medical research is all about Garvan since 1997. He is a philanthropic corporate partnership. The disability- a better life for future generations. Any visionary of The Kinghorn Cancer Centre accessible Honda Odyssey provided time spent at Garvan with the wonderful and the Garvan-Weizmann Centre for by Suttons City Honda will help The staff is motivational and inspirational.”
Below: the vehicle provided by Suttons City Honda for TKCC patient transport is officially handed to Andrew Giles, CEO of Garvan Research Foundation (centre), by two generations of the Sutton family. From left Lauren Sutton, Craig Sutton, Laurie Sutton and Ryan Sutton. garvan.org.au/cancer Division Report: Cancer
Research highlight In a study of 550 patient biopsies, the researchers found that a cellular pathway Long-term survivors (Cdk4/6) was ‘switched on’ in two-thirds of pancreatic tumours, driving them to have ‘built-in grow and divide. The drug palbociclib switches off the Cdk4/6 protein, so the immunotherapy’ researchers tested its effects on Cdk4/6- driven pancreatic tumours in mice. They Pancreatic cancer has a dismal five- also devised a straightforward way to year survival of just 7% – but a select identify which tumours were likely to few patients go on to live healthy respond to palbociclib treatment. lives. New research has shown that, in these people, the immune The researchers saw dramatic effects system sees the tumour as a kind on mouse lifespan at all stages of of infectious disease – prompting it cancer progression, including metastatic Professor David Thomas to attack and destroy cancer cells. cancer, and showed how palbociclib could also inhibit the spread of From the Head The study included clinical and genomic pancreatic cancer to distant tissues. analysis of 150 Australian patients, Describe your Division’s goal. contributed through the Garvan-based The findings could lead to a new To understand cancer and pioneer Australian Pancreatic Cancer Genome personalised treatment approach for personalised screening and treatments. Initiative (APGI). Garvan’s Professor many pancreatic cancers. Clinical trials Anthony Gill says, “The APGI is an to assess the effects of palbociclib on What’s your Division’s main incredibly rich and detailed clinical pancreatic cancer are now underway. research focus? and genomic resource of hundreds of We research common as well as rare pancreatic cancer patients – we’re able Chou et al., Gut 2017; 0:1-14; and uncommon cancers. We have to go back, years later, to the genome DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2017-315144 a strong focus on innovative genomic sequence of tumours in people who approaches and imaging technologies. are now well, and to look in detail at Celebrating giving exactly what is different about them.” Which Divisions within Garvan do you Paspaley’s gift work most closely with? The findings will help researchers We’re housed within The Kinghorn understand how the body defends Garvan’s valued partner, the iconic Cancer Centre and we work closely itself against pancreatic cancer, pearling company Paspaley, has with St Vincent’s Hospital oncologists and will drive new work on created the ‘Kimberley Bracelet’ to and nurses. Because cancer can immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer. support Garvan and cancer research. hide in bone, we collaborate closely From each bracelet purchased, 25% with the Bone Biology Division. Balachandran et al., Nature 2017; is donated to Garvan’s Australian Immunotherapy has huge potential 551:512‑16. DOI: 10.1038/nature24462 Genomic Cancer Medicine Program. for cancer research so we work In 2017, the bracelet generated closely with the Immunology Division. Research highlight more than $200,000 in donations. Due to the role of genomics, the Garvan-Weizmann Centre for Cellular Breast cancer The design comprises natural elements Genomics and the Kinghorn Centre for unique to WA’s Kimberley region – Clinical Genomics are key partners. drug could work in sandalwood from the Kununurra and luminous Paspaley pearls. Paspaley has Where do you see the Cancer pancreatic cancer supported Garvan for many years, and Division’s research heading? this exclusive design is an innovative Our research continues to A breakthrough breast cancer drug way the company is introducing their improve our understanding of the might also be effective against some clients to Garvan. The Kimberley genetic drivers of cancers and forms of pancreatic cancer, including Bracelet is a unisex accessory, and the development of personalised metastatic cancer, Dr Marina Pajic is available at all Paspaley boutiques medicine and precision healthcare. and her team have found. and online at paspaley.com.
16 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Associate Professor Paul Timpson, Invasion and Metastasis Lab Head, with Janett Stoehr, Invasion and Metastasis Research Assistant. Research highlight Research Laboratories Top-to-toe MRI finds and Groups Tumour Progression Lab curable cancers Clinical Cancer Research Head: Dr Alex Swarbrick Coordinated by Prof David A major study has shown that Thomas and A/Prof Elgene Lim Translational Breast Cancer Research whole-body MRI detects tumours Group Leader: Prof Sandra O’Toole in people with a high genetic risk of Connie Johnson Breast cancer at an early and curable stage. Cancer Research Lab Head: Cancer Biology Research Researchers worked with people A/Prof Elgene Lim Coordinated by Prof Chris Ormandy with Li-Fraumeni, almost all of whom will have cancer in their lifetime. Genomic Cancer Medicine Lab Cancer Biology Lab Head: Head: Prof David Thomas Prof Chris Ormandy The whole-body MRI screening program detected cancers at a high Immunobiology of Cancer Group Cell Survival Group Leader: rate: approximately one cancer per 10 Leader: Dr Maya Kansara Dr Samantha Oakes individuals tested. The researchers will next explore whether whole-body MRI Molecular Screening and Replication and Genome Stability is effective as a screening tool in other Therapeutics Program Manager: Group Leader: Dr Liz Caldon groups with a high genetic cancer risk. Dr Dominique Hess Tumour Development Group Professor David Thomas co-led Genetic Cancer Risk Group Leader: Dr David Gallego-Ortega the study with Dr Mandy Ballinger Leader: Dr Mandy Ballinger (Garvan) and National Cancer Institute Cancer Cell Plasticity Lab (USA) colleagues. “What we have Ovarian Cancer Research Lab Head: Dr Christine Chaffer found – conclusively – is that whole- Head: Prof David Bowtell body screening of individuals at high Cancer Developmental Biology genetic cancer risk really works in the Australian Pancreatic Caner Genome Lab Head: Prof Neil Watkins clinic,” says Professor Thomas. “We’re Initiative Head: Prof Anthony Gill fast approaching a point at which an Network Biology Group individual’s personalised risk of cancer Clinical Prostate Cancer Research Leader: Dr David Croucher will be determinable by investigating Group Leader: Prof Lisa Horvath their genome. We look forward Cell Division Lab Head: to assessing the power of whole- Hormones and Cancer Group Dr Andrew Burgess body MRI to pick up cancers early Leader: Dr Ann McCormack in a range of high-risk individuals.” Invasion and Metastasis Lab Translational Cancer Research Head: A/Prof Paul Timpson Ballinger et al., JAMA Oncol 2017; 3:1634- Coordinated by Dr Alex Swarbrick 9. DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2017.1968 and Prof Sandra O’Toole Matrix and Metastasis Group Leader: Dr Thomas Cox Research highlight Colon and Lung Cancer Research Lab Head: A/Prof Personalised Cancer Therapeutics A one-two punch for Maija Kohonen-Corish Group Leader: Dr Marina Pajic pancreatic cancer
Garvan researchers have uncovered Timpson and Dr Marina Pajic, who co- “We’ve been able to show that it’s a promising new approach for treating led the study, softened the surrounding crucial to treat the stroma first and the pancreatic cancer, by ‘softening’ the tissue (known as ‘stroma’) with an tumour second, and to fine-tune the tissue around the tumour before existing drug before chemotherapy. treatment timing to maximise efficacy,” chemotherapy. This sequential says Associate Professor Timpson. two-step approach doubled survival Using cutting-edge intravital microscopy time in mice and impaired the techniques to peer directly into The research team will now work spread of cancer to other tissues. pancreatic tumours inside a living closely with clinician-scientists animal, and to watch how the approach to translate the findings into an Combination chemotherapy is the affected tumours, the team was able early-stage clinical study. standard of care for pancreatic cancer, to show for the first time that targeting but it is only moderately effective. To the stroma can make pancreatic Vennin et al., Sci Transl Med 2017; 9-eaai8504. address this, Associate Professor Paul tumours more susceptible to therapy. DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aai8504
18 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS For the love of Connie
In 2017, tragically after Connie Johnson OAM had passed away, the large-scale artwork ‘Connie’s Heart’ was unveiled at Garvan by Samuel Johnson OAM. The artwork was a labour of love for Marie Ramos, who took a year to create the artwork. It contains 2,000 small ceramic tiles, each with a heart‑shaped pair of thumbprints from one person, many of whom have been directly affected by cancer.
At its centre are the thumbprints of the late Connie Johnson, which together form the sole red heart in a surrounding sea of white.
In making the artwork, Marie raised more than $110,000 in donations. The funds will support Garvan’s research into cancer, and particularly breast cancer. The donations provide a crucial boost to the Institute’s efforts to bring about real change in clinical practice through research.
“I wanted to join in the fight, but I also had the desire to celebrate the beautiful soul driving the charity, to give Connie a small gift, a legacy if you may, for all the love and sacrifices she and her family made so that no other family would have to experience losing a family member to cancer ever again,” says Marie.
“The part about my project which didn’t go to plan however was the death of Connie on the eighth of September. She would only see the finished product from the heavens, which would have been the best view in the house anyway.”
From left: Samuel Johnson, Marie Ramos and her husband Andrew with their daughters at the artwork’s unveiling. Genomic cancer medicine now a reality
Five years after the opening of The Kinghorn Cancer Centre (TKCC), one of the ambitious visions for this joint Garvan and St Vincent’s Hospital facility – that of personalised genomic cancer medicine – has come to fruition.
The Australian Genomic Cancer Medicine Program (AGCMP) was developed by Garvan and is led by Professor David Thomas, Head of Garvan’s Cancer Division and Director of The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, in collaboration with the NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre.
The groundbreaking trial uses genomic medicine to personalise therapies and prevention and screening methods for those with rare cancers. It is a nationally available program with two main areas of focus – clinical trials matching patients to therapies, and a risk-management program for families with an inherited high risk of cancer.
“Through our new understanding of the genomic basis of cancer, we can, for the first time, match patients with therapies on the basis of their, and their cancer’s, genetic profile – instead of treating cancer according to where in the body it occurs,” says Professor Thomas.
When the glass doors of 370 Victoria Street slid open on 28 August 2012, it marked a new era in cancer treatment. TKCC launched its mission to bring leading- edge science into the heart of the clinic.
Realising such a vision was only possible thanks to significant investment from the philanthropic community. Each gift made by our visionaries has proved a critical building block in the development of the AGCMP and TKCC.
The Kinghorn Cancer Centre in Sydney.
20 Childhood cancer clinical trial goes national
The Zero Childhood Cancer national child cancer personalised medicine program is the most ambitious childhood cancer initiative ever undertaken in Australia. This program is led by Children’s Cancer Institute and the Kids Cancer Centre at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, which is a part of the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network. Garvan and Lions Clubs are two of the partners of the program.
The program’s national clinical trial, launched in September, will enrol more than 400 children with high-risk or relapsed cancer over the next three years.
The Lions Kids Cancer Genome Project (Genome Power) forms the contribution of Garvan and Lions to the Zero Childhood Cancer program. Through Genome Power, Garvan will sequence and analyse the cancer and normal genome of every child enrolled in Zero Childhood Cancer – and uncover changes that could help guide personalised treatment approaches.
The visionary support of Lions, and the critical work being done through Zero Childhood Cancer, inspired the John Brown Cook Foundation to support Genome Power. Mrs Wallis Cook Graham, a trustee of the Foundation, says, “We’re proud to be in a position to be able to invest in this groundbreaking collaborative initiative that will not only benefit Australian children but also, in the longer term, improve outcomes for childhood cancers across the world.”
Garvan and Lions warmly acknowledge the support of the John Brown Cook Foundation. “It’s exciting and inspiring when philanthropists and fundraisers come together behind a common cause,” says Dr Joe Collins, Founding Chairman of Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation. We are all motivated Little Ava is now in remission from by the strong belief that every child a neuroblastoma in her chest that she deserves a chance at a healthy life.” suffered when she was just six months old.
GARVAN.ORG.AU 21 garvan.org.au/diabetes-metabolism Division Report: Diabetes and Metabolism
Where do you see Diabetes and them further and gain a better Metabolism’s research heading? understanding of the beneficial We’re working toward the prevention health effects of physical activity.” of type 2 diabetes through a better understanding of prediabetes, the Pourteymour et al., Mol Met 2017; 6:352- body’s relationship with insulin and 365. DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2017.01.007 the effects of exercise on the body. We’ll also continue to research Research highlight rarer metabolic diseases to identify new treatment opportunities. Diabetes-related
Research highlight bone fracture risk
New exercise-induced The association between obesity, type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis Professor Mark Febbraio molecules on the radar is complex. Obese individuals have a strong, dense bone structure yet, From the Head When we exercise, our muscles paradoxically, those who also have produce molecules called ‘myokines’, type 2 diabetes are nonetheless Describe your Division’s goal. which signal to other tissues and may at high risk of breaking a bone. Preventing death and disability from be the underlying cause of the positive obesity and type 2 diabetes. health effects of physical activity. Dr Katherine Tonks and her colleagues explored whether changes in bone What’s your Division’s More than 100 myokines have turnover (in which old bone is removed main research focus? been identified so far in various and new bone introduced) could be the Type 2 diabetes is a global epidemic. studies, but these techniques underlying cause of high fracture risk. Our research is directed to haven’t yet detected them all. understanding the relationships They found that bone turnover is slowed between genetics, the environment In a recent study involving Garvan in obese people who also have insulin and type 2 diabetes and obesity, then researchers, published in the journal resistance (diabetes), but not in obese developing personalised approaches Molecular Metabolism, researchers people who are insulin sensitive (not to treatment. A high proportion of went looking for additional myokines diabetic), and that the higher insulin our researchers are also clinicians, in people. The researchers levels in the blood associated with ensuring our work is always focused on worked with 26 middle-aged men insulin resistance is what is responsible health outcomes. We have a particular who combined endurance and for this suppression in bone turnover. interest in understanding the basis of strength training for 12 weeks. the positive health effects of exercise. “Low bone turnover might be a marker The study used blood samples for, if not the cause of, the fracture risk Which Divisions within Garvan do and muscle biopsies taken both found in those with type 2 diabetes you work most closely with? before and after exercise. The as well as obesity when coupled with We’re using whole genome sequencing researchers compared the samples insulin resistance,” says Dr Tonks. and other analyses to explore to identify genes whose expression personalised approaches to treating increased markedly after exercise: Dr Tonks’ findings could lead to prediabetes, and this sees us working these are possible myokines. changes in the clinical management closely with the Garvan-Weizmann of diabetes. In future, clinicians might, Centre for Cellular Genomics, through “We identified 17 new proteins for instance, examine markers of bone the Garvan-Weizmann partnership. that are candidate myokines whose turnover alongside investigations into We collaborate with the Neuroscience expression increased in response bone mineral density. Determining Division on zebrafish models of to exercise,” says Dr Marit Hjorth, an individual’s risk of fracture could, disease, the Cancer Division in Research Officer in Garvan’s Cellular in turn, inform treatment choices. our investigation of the impacts of and Molecular Metabolism team. exercise, and with St Vincent’s Hospital “Now that we know about these Tonks et al., J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; in our clinical trials and investigations. possible myokines, we can study 102:1112-1121. DOI: 10.1210 /jc.2016 -3282
22 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Dr Marit Hjorth, Cellular and Molecular Metabolism Research Officer. Research highlight News highlight Research Laboratories and Groups ‘Fish with Parkinson’s’ Major prediabetes Beta Cell Regeneration Lab reveal druggable study launches Head: Dr Daniel Hesselson
pathway Can the gut microbiome tell us how to Beta Cell Signalling Lab treat prediabetes? This is one of the Head: Prof Trevor Biden Researchers have identified a new questions that Garvan researchers will cellular target for the development of look to answer in the Predict study. Cellular and Molecular Metabolism future Parkinson’s therapies. Dr Daniel Lab Head: Prof Mark Febbraio Hesselson and his colleagues simulated There’s no doubt that weight loss and Parkinson’s-like neurodegeneration in exercise bring multiple health benefits. Myokine Biology Group zebrafish using a combination of genetic But in clinical research at Garvan, in Leader: Dr Martin Whitham and environmental factors – akin to about a quarter of people who maintain how Parkinson’s develops in people. a strict ‘healthy’ diet leading to weight Mitochondrial Metabolism loss, this does not change the body’s and Ageing Group Leader: The team rapidly tested close to insulin resistance. And, unfortunately, Dr Andy Philp 1000 compounds to identify those almost 80% of people put the weight that restored normal movement back on within five years. This means, Clinical Diabetes, Appetite in zebrafish embryos, pinpointing as a long-term approach, weight and Metabolism Lab Heads: a promising cellular pathway to target. loss by itself isn’t the whole story in Prof Lesley Campbell and Zebrafish are important tools for drug battling the prediabetes epidemic. Prof Jerry Greenfield discovery because they have many genes similar to those in humans In a three-year project with the Clinical Insulin Resistance Group and can be used to test thousands Weizmann Institute in Israel, Leader: Dr Dorit Samocha-Bonet of potential therapies at speed. through the Garvan-Weizmann partnership, the clinical team will Prader-Willi Syndrome and Zhang et al.,Cell Chem Biol 2017; 24:471- sequence the many genomes of Genetic Forms of Diabetes Group 480. DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2017.03.005 participants’ gut microbiome. Leader: Dr Alexander Viardot
News highlight In a six-month intervention, participants Clinical Obesity, Nutrition and will have the composition of their Adipose Biology Lab Head: Bridging the microbiome and genome aligned Prof Katherine Samaras with lifestyle data like diet, stress interdisciplinary gap and activity. This lifestyle data will Insulin Signalling Lab Head: be entered daily into a sophisticated A/Prof Carsten Schmitz-Peiffer in chronic disease yet simple-to-use smartphone app. Islet Biology Lab Head: Researchers from across the world Information about participants’ blood A/Prof Ross Laybutt gathered in Fiji in August, at the sugar levels will be monitored through inaugural Immunometabolism and a device that each will wear for periods Chronic Disease Conference. Chaired of two weeks before, during and after What does medical research by Professor Mark Febbraio, the treatment. The Predict study will help mean to you? meeting was designed to maximise unravel why some people respond to It is essential for improving cross-fertilisation between the fields of common treatments and others do not. the quality of life. immunology (the study of the immune system) and metabolism (the study Celebrating giving What inspired your first gift to Garvan? of the chemical reactions within our Coming to a meeting at Garvan bodies that collectively keep us alive). Garvan has been a beneficiary of and meeting with researchers. Mr Joseph Skrzynski AO and The Sky Researchers are now beginning to Foundation’s philanthropy for almost What’s been the biggest reward? understand how these two once- two decades. Their investment in the Receiving the briefings from distant disciplines are interconnected Diabetes and Metabolism Division researchers and seeing the and can help us understand and has supported the Division’s efforts progress they are making. treat diseases such as cancer, type to understand the relationships 2 diabetes and immune disorders. between genetics, the environment What’s your dream for The next Immunometabolism and type 2 diabetes and obesity, and healthcare in the future? and Chronic Disease Conference the development of personalised Individualised lifelong is being planned for 2020. approaches to treatment. healthcare programs.
24 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Smart power for cancer research
Medical research is the key to solving cancer, but progress is limited by the staggering amounts of computing power needed to process the complex information presented by cancer data.
Every smartphone is a powerful computer, with smartphones in Australia collectively having 90 times the processing power of a supercomputer. When smartphones are idle – like when the owner is asleep at night – DreamLab can put that supercomputing power to work, by solving tiny research problems and sending the results back to Garvan. Each piece of the puzzle helps speed up the Institute’s research.
DreamLab, which was created by The Vodafone Foundation and Garvan Institute, works by combining the processing power of mobile devices to create the world’s first distributed smartphone supercomputer for cancer research. DreamLab is free to download for Android and iPhone, and incredibly easy to use.
To inspire participation, the relaunch in October 2017 encouraged job title changes on LinkedIn to ‘Cancer Researcher at DreamLab App’ – including by Iñaki Berroeta, the Chief Executive Officer at Vodafone. This helped spread awareness to the more than 120,000 people now taking part.
“Powering the DreamLab app each night gives me a sense of contributing to the research,” says Sarah McGoram, a mum and cancer patient.
The more people who use DreamLab, the faster data for cancer research can be processed. “DreamLab is helping us tackle the huge amount of data that we’re producing by sequencing the DNA of cancer patients,” says Professor David Thomas, head of Garvan’s Cancer Division. “By analysing this data, we hope to understand more about how to detect, diagnose and treat it better.” Artwork courtesy of Sarah Hankinson. garvan.org.au/genomics-epigenetics Division Report: Genomics and Epigenetics
research portfolio. Our Division has the progression of prostate cancer, a unique set of skills – including data Garvan researchers have shown. visualisation and big data analysis – that are critical for innovative In a study published in Nature research across many disease areas. Communications, led by Professor We work particularly closely with Susan Clark and Dr Fatima Valdés the Bone and Cancer Divisions, and Mora, the researchers investigated with the Kinghorn Centre for Clinical whether histones – proteins that Genomics and the Garvan-Weizmann package DNA in the nucleus of Centre for Cellular Genomics. every cell – might be playing a key role. In the investigation, they found Where do you see Genomics and a chemical modification or tagging, Epigenetics’ research heading? called acetylation, of H2A.Z was We are using and developing a wide prominent in prostate cancer cells. array of genomic technologies that will Professor Susan Clark FAA speed discovery, and we are driving “Our work provides a deeper level the development of computational of understanding of what drives From the Head methods to make sense of the prostate cancer progression,” says remarkable new datasets that are Professor Clark. “Deciphering this Describe your Division’s goal. emerging from whole genome extra layer of epigenetic information To make sense of how the mapping to whole genome sequencing. is vital if we are to fully comprehend information encoded in, and above, the complexity of gene control and the genome controls human Most importantly, we have moved how it is disrupted in cancer.” development and how mistakes in beyond looking at DNA in two this information can cause disease. dimensions and have embarked on Valdés Mora et al., Nat Commun 2017; novel sequencing and visualisation 8: 1346, DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-01393-8 What’s your Division’s technologies to study the 3D main research focus? genome and epigenome. Research highlight We explore both the genetic information encoded in our DNA as well as the The next frontier is to determine Genomics reveals epigenetic information that sits ‘above’ what information controls the 3D our DNA and the ‘readouts’ from organisation of DNA inside the African prehistory DNA (called RNA) – with the ultimate nucleus that gives each cell-type aim of uncovering their combined its own identity. We predict that The first large-scale study of ancient contributions to health and disease. sequences in the so-called ‘junk human DNA from sub-Saharan DNA’ are critical in controlling the Africa opens a long-awaited window We have a particular interest in new genomic and epigenetic architecture into the identity of prehistoric sequencing and mapping technologies and ultimately gene expression. populations, with implications for that allow us to explore the intricate their modern descendants. relationship between the genome Another aim is to understand the role of and the epigenome and address how each of the six billion bases (or letters) The findings by an international both are disrupted in cancer and other in our DNA sequence, not just in research team, including Garvan’s diseases. We work actively to translate encoding genes but also in determining Professor Vanessa Hayes, uncover our knowledge to improve health the 3D blueprint of human life. surprising details about sub-Saharan outcomes through the development of African ancestry. This included genetic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Research highlight adaptations for a hunter-gatherer lifestyle and the first glimpses of Which Divisions within Garvan do DNA packaging driver population distribution before farmers you work most closely with? and animal herders swept across the We aim to facilitate collaboration and in prostate cancer continent about 3000 years ago. foster innovation across all Garvan’s Divisions as the study of genomics A unique protein, H2A.Z, which “Ancient DNA is the only tool we and epigenetics spans Garvan’s packages DNA in cells, may drive have for characterising past genomic
26 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Division Report: Genomics and Epigenetics
Bindu Kanakamedala, Transcriptomic Research Laboratory Manager. diversity,” says Dr Pontus Skoglund Research highlight Research Laboratories (Harvard), the study’s first author. and Groups Prostate cancer map “We need to ensure we use it for Epigenetics Research Lab the benefit of all populations around reveals a new world Head: Prof Susan Clark the world, perhaps especially Africa, which contains the greatest of DNA changes Epigenetic Deregulation Group human genetic diversity in the Leader: Dr Clare Stirzaker world but has been underserved In a world first, Garvan researchers [by the genomics community].” led by Professor Vanessa Hayes Histone Variants Group Leader: have developed a next-generation Dr Fatima Valdés Mora Skoglund et al., Cell 2017; 171(1):59-71.e21. ‘map’ of a prostate cancer genome. DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2017.08.049 In mapping the entire genome of Genome Informatics Lab a prostate tumour, the researchers Head: A/Prof Marcel Dinger Research highlight uncovered 10 times more large- scale DNA rearrangements than Human Comparative and An intricate roadmap previously detected in the disease. Prostate Cancer Genomics Lab Head: Prof Vanessa Hayes for cell division “We know that prostate cancer is more likely driven by large, complex Transcriptomic Research Lab Dr Andrew Burgess and Professor rearrangements of DNA. This is Head: Dr Timothy Mercer Seán O’Donoghue have brought Garvan different to most cancers, which and CSIRO researchers and biodata are driven by small DNA mutations Biodata Visualisation Lab visualisation specialists together in a number of key genes,” says Head: Dr Seán O’Donoghue to produce an interactive graphical Professor Hayes, noting that the representation of how a cell divides. team identified 15 new potential Developmental Epigenomics Lab drivers of prostate cancer. Head: Dr Ozren Bogdanovic The intricacies of cell division, and how it is disordered in disease, are the Whole genome sequencing is Molecular Genetics of research focus of Dr Andrew Burgess invaluable in identifying small DNA Inherited Kidney Disorders from Garvan’s Cancer Division. mutations, but it may not detect when Lab Head: Prof John Shine a gene has been completely deleted, Dr Burgess worked with Professor transferred to another chromosome, O’Donoghue, who leads the Biodata or multiplied many times. Celebrating giving Visualisation team in the Genomics and Epigenetics Division and is the “Using next-generation mapping, The Ian Potter Science Leader at CSIRO’s Data61, we saw huge amounts of large- to illustrate the complex biology of scale rearrangements, and genome Foundation provides cell division in an entirely new way. sequencing then enabled us to identify the genes affected essential tech Together they have produced an by these rearrangements,” interactive graphical representation says Professor Hayes. Cutting-edge technology, expertise of cell division that has been and determination are central to published online in the journal Cell. The study provides proof of successful research. Professor The interactive website-hosted principle that next-generation Vanessa Hayes has an ambitious goal graphic takes the viewer on mapping can provide insights into – to identify the key genetic factors a journey through ‘mitosis,’ the prostate cancer, and has future driving prostate cancer. To achieve phase of a cell’s life cycle where clinical potential for determining this, Professor Hayes and her team the chromosomes are split in two the prognosis for an individual, needed a next-generation mapping before a single cell splits into two diagnosing prostate cancer subtypes system called Bionano Saphyr. genetically identical daughter cells. or selecting targeted therapies. Garvan has been able to purchase the With this tool, researchers can, The findings could one day be used equipment thanks to the generosity of at a glance, follow along biological to help characterise an individual’s The Ian Potter Foundation, an Australian pathways, observing where in the prostate tumour and reveal previously philanthropic organisation that has been cell the proteins are active, which unrecognised information that could contributing to Garvan since 1998. other proteins they interact with, influence clinical treatment. The Bionano Saphyr has given Hayes’ and see whole chains of events team the ability to determine the full that are set in motion as protein Jaratlerdsiri et al., Oncotarget 2017; 8:23588- spectrum of genetic variants in prostate switches turn events on or off. 23602. DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.15802 cancer patients with metastatic disease.
28 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Finding answers to autoimmune disease
In autoimmune disease, the body Appropriately titled Hope Research, the and visionary, and these reasons becomes its own assailant. The project seeks to pinpoint the ‘rogue’ are unchanged in the Foundation’s immune system, normally the body’s immune cells that attack the body, ongoing support. Garvan’s core defender, directs ‘friendly fire’ at and to develop targeted therapies. values are a great fit for us; we both healthy cells, organs or tissues. keep looking to new horizons to Symptoms vary from person to Hope Research is the most recent conquer with fresh eyes,” she says. person, and account for more than instalment in a longstanding 100 diseases including type 1 relationship between Garvan and The “Somebody in your family has, or diabetes, lupus, multiple sclerosis, Bill and Patricia Ritchie Foundation, will have, a mystery disease with no coeliac disease, rheumatoid arthritis now represented by sisters Julia and answer,” Ruth says. “We’ve chosen to and a wide range of rare disorders. Ruth Ritchie on behalf of the family. support a coordinated, comprehensive Autoimmune diseases are daily study that has the potential to unlock afflictions and last a lifetime. In the early 1990s, the Foundation the mystery of all autoimmune set up The Bill Ritchie Post Doctoral diseases.” Ruth comments from Autoimmune diseases are on the Research Fellowship, which financed personal experience, as she and her rise in Australia. One in eight people the early careers of many researchers family know its impacts firsthand. will be affected by an autoimmune over more than two decades. In 2014, disease in their life. These conditions it increased its support to establish The This undertaking from The Bill and can have a devastating effect, not Bill and Patricia Ritchie Foundation Chair, Patricia Ritchie Foundation aims just on patients, but on their family of which Professor Chris Goodnow, to pave the way for the additional members and friends as well. Lacking Garvan’s Deputy Director and Hope community funding needed to realise cures, these diseases last a lifetime. Research Leader, is its inaugural holder. the project’s promise. “We hope that our backing will encourage Now, there is potential to change “Our parents were great believers in other people who have family and this, thanks to the joint goals of giving back to the country that afforded friends who live with autoimmune researchers from both the Garvan our family a wonderful quality of diseases to follow our example and Weizmann Institutes and The life,” says Julia. “Our mother always and participate in Garvan’s Bill and Patricia Ritchie Foundation. found the Garvan story inspiring groundbreaking research,” says Ruth.
From left: Ruth Ritchie’s younger son Patrick Blampied, Julia Ritchie, Garvan’s Professor Chris Goodnow, Ruth’s elder son Bill Blampied and Ruth Ritchie. garvan.org.au/immunology Division Report: Immunology
how changes across the genome rapid changes to their DNA. This is can lead to immune diseases is critical for our immune system to key to our work, so we have close keep up with rapidly changing threats relationships with the Kinghorn Centre from invading viruses and bacteria. for Clinical Genomics, Genome.One As their DNA is altered, some B cells and the Garvan-Weizmann Centre will acquire destructive mutations. for Cellular Genomics. We also work with a wide group of clinicians “One of the great challenges is to at major hospitals across Sydney find approaches to uncover which and interstate to assist in diagnosis mutations drive the cell to go rogue, and and development of treatments. which mutations associate with which disease. If we can do that, we have We also coordinate Clinical a starting point for the development of Immunogenomics Research new therapies,” says Professor Chris Consortium Australia (CIRCA), Goodnow, who co-led the research. Professor Stuart Tangye a major collaborative project involving researchers and clinicians that works Wang et al., J Exp Med 2017; 214:2759. From the Head with patients to explore the genetic DOI: 10.1084/jem.20161454 changes underlying their disease. Describe your Division’s goal. Research highlight Determining how the immune Where do you see Immunology’s system works, how it can fail and research heading? Encouraging IL-2 to how best to treat immune disease. It is an incredibly exciting time because immune research can rapidly impact on attack tumours What’s your Division’s clinical medicine. We have developed main research focus? several large-scale research programs Interleukin-2 immunotherapy is The immune system is extremely that work directly with clinicians and commonly being used to activate adept at identifying threats, but it can people with immune diseases. The the immune system against cancer, become overactive and attack the Hope Research project is a major but is so toxic that it is currently body, causing autoimmune diseases study to determine the cause of 36 only prescribed in a very limited like rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 autoimmune diseases such as multiple number of late-stage cancers. diabetes. It can also be underactive, sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and leading to immunodeficiencies and type 1 diabetes. Our research into the Associate Professor Daniel Christ infectious disease. We study the wide potential for islet transplants could and his team have explored ways to range of immune responses and the see people with type 1 diabetes make interleukin-2 immunotherapy processes that underpin them. We also being able to produce insulin again. less toxic and more effective against work at the intersection between the cancer. In doing so, the team immune system and cancer – such as Research highlight uncovered surprising new information treatments that stimulate the immune about how to enhance interleukin’s system to attack cancer cells. We How B cells go ‘rogue’ ‘tumour attacking’ activity. are exploring the immune system’s response to transplantation in an effort Garvan researchers, with colleagues The team found that regulatory T cells to improve the outlook for those with from the Australian National tend to dampen immune responses type 1 diabetes and other disorders. University, have shed new light against a tumour, but a molecule called on how immune B cells ‘go rogue’ IL-2-Fc is able to reduce the number Which Divisions within Garvan do and then multiply, and how this can of these cells, so helping to overcome you work most closely with? kickstart lymphoma, other blood the immune system’s ‘reluctance’ to We collaborate widely within cancers and autoimmune diseases. attack cancer. The findings provide Garvan. We work on immunotherapy important guidance for developing approaches with the Cancer Division The research shows how two DNA future interleukin-2 -based therapies. and on inflammation with the Bone mutations work as ‘partners in crime’ Biology and the Diabetes and to drive abnormal activity. Unlike other Vazquez-Lombardi et al., Nat Commun 2017; Metabolism Divisions. Understanding cells in the body, immune cells undergo 8:15373. DOI: 10.1038/ncomms15373
30 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Angelica Lau, B Cell Biology PhD student. Research highlight Research Laboratories Immunology and Immunodeficiency and Groups Lab Head: Prof Stuart Tangye Tumour-trained Antibody Therapeutics Lab Human Immune Disorders T cells go on patrol Head: A/Prof Daniel Christ Group Leader: Dr Cindy Ma
‘Tumour-trained’ immune cells – which B Cell Biology Lab Head: Innate and Tumour Immunology have the potential to kill cancer cells Prof Robert Brink Lab Head: Dr Tatyana Chtanova – have been seen moving from one tumour to another for the first time. Genomic Engineering Group Intravital Microscopy Lab Leader: Dr David Zahra Head: Dr Tri Phan Dr Tatyana Chtanova and her team used an innovative ‘photoconversion’ Cellular Immunity Lab Head: Lymphocyte Signalling and Activation strategy, in which all the cells in Prof Jonathan Sprent Lab Head: Dr Elissa Deenick a mouse are labelled with a green fluorescent compound, and only Immune Tolerance Group Mucosal Autoimmunity Lab those within a tumour, including Leader: Dr Kylie Webster Head: A/Prof Cecile King immune cells, are turned to red. Immunobiology of Cytokines Transplantation Immunology “We found, unexpectedly, that T Lab Head: Dr Marcel Batten Lab Head: A/Prof Shane Grey cells were the main immune cells to exit tumours and move to lymph Immunogenomics Lab Head: Immunopathology Group Leader: nodes and other tumours – even Prof Chris Goodnow A/Prof William Sewell though they represent only a fraction of the immune cells that enter tumours,” says Dr Chtanova. The researchers devised a new What does medical research way to track cells called memory mean to you? “What we suspect is happening is B cells – which attack disease that The means to unlock the future that, within the tumour, these T cells the body has tackled before. of data-driven medicine. are acquiring knowledge about the cancer that helps them to seek and They observed, for the first time, What inspired your first gift to Garvan? destroy cells in a second tumour.” the early development of memory B My husband and I attended a tour of cells in the germinal centre – “a kind the genomics centre at Garvan several “We’re working to understand more of training camp where B cells go to years ago and were amazed at the deeply the relationships between learn their craft,” as Professor Brink world-class calibre of researchers and immune and cancer cells, so that puts it. This provides evidence that facilities. I am a huge believer in the we can design approaches to memory B cells give us protection power of genetic research and feel empower the immune system to against versions of a disease – such as that enormous strides will be made destroy cancer,” Dr Chtanova says. flu strains that change year on year. in the near-term, particularly around sequencing’s application to medical Torcellan et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2017; The new findings could aid the conditions. Garvan’s entrepreneurial 114:5677- 5682. DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1618446114 rapid development of new vaccines and innovative approach resonated with against emerging diseases. the John Brown Cook Foundation. Research highlight Suan et al., Immunity 2017; 47:1142-1153. What’s been the biggest reward? The immune system DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2017.11.022 To know we are accelerating the fantastic work being done by Garvan’s makes ‘memories’ Celebrating giving teams, which will have a global impact.
As well as defending our bodies at The John Brown Cook Foundation What’s your dream for the moment of infection, our immune made its first philanthropic investment healthcare in the future? system gives us long-term protection in Garvan’s work in 2015. The That we can use today’s technological against the same invader – so we Foundation has focused on supporting advances to accelerate the path of usually catch a given disease only once. innovative research to help solve medical research. There is huge complex and previously unanswered opportunity to capitalise on improved New research from Professor questions about diseases, such as data processing and decreasing Robert Brink and colleagues has childhood immunodeficiencies and sequencing costs to find the answers now solved a key piece of the cancer. Mrs Wallis Cook Graham, to previously unsolvable puzzles. We puzzle of how the immune system a trustee of the Foundation, discusses believe in the power of collaborative and ‘remembers’ past infection. what the connection has meant. creative initiatives to further this goal.
32 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Accelerating single-cell understanding
Together with the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel, Garvan officially opened the Garvan-Weizmann Centre for Cellular Genomics in 2017. Located within Garvan, the Centre is the only one of its kind in Australia and houses a range of new and cutting-edge technologies that can look more closely at a cell than ever before. Researchers are able to explore thousands of individual cells simultaneously: uncovering each cell’s genetic signature, understanding what makes it unique and exploring how it functions in health and disease.
“We’ve brought together key intersecting technologies that together make cellular genomics a reality,” says Professor Chris Goodnow. “When these technologies and the people who can use them to best advantage are available under one roof, we can accelerate the process of biomedical research.”
The Garvan and Weizmann Institutes established the Centre as part of a broader partnership that aims to advance biomedical research, genomic medicine and genomic education. “What makes the partnership even more momentous is that the Weizmann Institute is a global leader in multidisciplinary basic research, whereas Garvan’s focus is on translational research. Together, we are answering some of science and medicine’s greatest questions,” says Professor Goodnow.
Through joint programs, staff and student exchange and cutting-edge technologies, Garvan and Weizmann scientists are uncovering entirely new insights into cancer, immune diseases, metabolic diseases and other conditions.
The construction of the Centre was made possible through visionary philanthropic support from Mr John Roth and Ms Jillian Segal AM, Mr and Mrs Laurie and Di Sutton and The Johnny Kahlbetzer Family, as well as a grant from the Wenyan Li, Garvan Flow Cytometry government of New South Wales. Development Cytometrist. garvan.org.au/neuroscience Division Report: Neuroscience
Where do you see Neuroscience’s Research highlight research heading? For many diseases we have a two- How the brain is pronged approach – finding ways to diagnose before the onset of wired for sound symptoms, and developing treatments that are effective after symptoms Hearing is a remarkably complex develop. We see a future of pre- process. When we hear, we are not symptomatic testing for many of the merely detecting sounds (vibrations in disorders we study so that treatments air), we process it through a series of can start much earlier in the disease brain circuits that locate, amplify and course and potentially avoid the process what we detect. The processes subsequent development of symptoms. result in our perception of sound.
Research highlight To shed light on the cellular circuitry Associate Professor Antony Cooper of the hearing process and to Releasing the ‘insulin understand the difficulties faced From the Head when individuals have hearing loss, handbrake’ to benefit Garvan researchers, led by Professor Describe your Division’s goal. David Ryugo, explored the physical Understanding how the human brain type 1 diabetes layout of connections between cells and nervous system influence disease. in the brain and study how these A molecule that affects appetite might connections are affected by hearing What’s your Division’s one day help transform the outlook loss. The key problem with hearing main research focus? for children with type 1 diabetes. The loss is a decreased ability to distinguish We study the changes in the brain researchers, led by Professor Herbert different sounds so that understanding and nervous system associated with Herzog and Associate Professor Shane speech becomes near impossible, disorders such as Parkinson’s and Grey (Immunology Division) found especially in noisy conditions. Alzheimer’s disease, bipolar disorder, a new way to boost insulin production in hearing loss, mental health and eating the pancreas. They showed that the Y1 “Experts thought information travelled disorders. We also study the regulation receptor – which regulates appetite and in only one direction when we hear – of energy balance that affects mood, energy expenditure in the body – also upwards, from the ear to the cortex,” weight gain and physical fitness. helps control blood sugar, by acting as says Professor Ryugo. “However, we Through these new understandings, an ‘insulin handbrake’ and switching off looked to demonstrate that information we seek to uncover new approaches insulin release. The findings could help flows the other way. This raises the to the diagnosis, treatment and transform success rates for transplants possibility of a feedback loop between prevention of neurological diseases. in which people with type 1 diabetes regions of the brain involved in receive donor insulin-producing cells hearing.” The feedback loops ‘sharpen’ Which Divisions within Garvan do to replace the cells they have lost. sounds of interest by suppressing you work most closely with? sounds that are deemed unimportant. As we look more closely at both DNA The researchers showed that switching and the molecules that are ‘read’ from off the Y1 receptor meant more The researchers used light and electron DNA (called RNA), we continue to work successful islet transplants, even microscopy to visualise connections with the whole genome sequencing with fewer cells transplanted – which between auditory structures. These technology and experts in Garvan’s could make islet transplants a far showed that the descending projections Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics, more realistic treatment option for are indeed part of a feedback loop and and with the Garvan-Weizmann Centre millions of people living with type 1 that they become ‘sloppy’ with hearing for Cellular Genomics. We also work diabetes. It could also help extend the loss. Such loops could be a way for with the Immunology, Diabetes and ‘honeymoon period’ experienced when our brains to ensure that important Metabolism Division and the Bone people first develop type 1 diabetes. sounds are not lost in the ‘noise’. Biology Divisions to explore how the nervous system and other bodily Loh et al., Nat Commun 2017; 8:490. Milinkeviciute et al., J Comp Neurol 2017; systems influence one another. DOI:10.1038/s41467-017-00624-2 525:773-793. DOI: 10.1002/cne.24095
34 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Kathryn Hill, Parkinson’s Disease and Neurodegeneration Senior Research Officer. Research highlight “One of the next great challenges Research Laboratories of modern genome biology will be and Groups Making sense of to investigate and document the function of long noncoding RNAs,” Eating Disorders Lab Head: PWS progression says RNA Biology and Plasticity Lab Prof Herbert Herzog Head Professor John Mattick. Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is Energy Expenditure Group a relatively rare disease but the most The accessibility of affordable Leader: Dr Lei Zhang common genetic form of obesity. high‑throughput sequencing is now It is characterised by intellectual generating a wealth of information on Neuroendocrinology Group disability, insatiable hunger and these RNAs. In their study, Professor Leader: Dr Yanchuan Shi other physical disorders, making Mattick and Dr Martin Smith, Head of it a very challenging condition. Genomic Technologies (Kinghorn Centre Hearing Research Lab for Clinical Genomics), developed Head: Prof David Ryugo The Snord116 gene cluster has been computational methods for the recognised as a critical contributor identification of structures in lncRNAs. Brain Circuits for Hearing Group to PWS, with mice lacking Snord116 Leader: Dr Michael Muniak displaying many classical PWS “We established a method that phenotypes, including low postnatal identifies the molecular functions Parkinson’s Disease and body weight, reduced bone mass of RNA structures using machine Neurogenomics Lab Head: and increased food intake. To learning,” says Dr Smith. “This allows A/Prof Antony Cooper understand the physiological function us to determine the specific biological of Snord116 better, Garvan scientists functions of a vast repertoire of RNA RNA Biology and Plasticity Lab reintroduced the product of the molecules that were previously not Head: Prof John Mattick Snord116 gene into mice lacking understood. We are thus reaching a new the gene cluster at different ages. era in understanding the functions of Epitranscriptomics and RNA RNAs and their effects on our health.” Dynamics Visiting Group Leader: Importantly, the study showed that, Eva Maria Novoa Pardo as the mice aged, the positive effects Smith et al. Genome Biol 2017; 18:244. of reintroducing energy expenditure DOI: 10.1186/s13059-017-1371-3 diminished. This indicates that the Celebrating giving symptoms of PWS develop gradually News highlight and the Snord116 gene cluster plays Geoff Dixon, outgoing Chair of the a critical role during this process. 200th anniversary of Garvan Research Foundation Board, and his wife Dawn have supported It revealed there is potential to Parkinson’s disease the work of the Neuroscience rescue the altered metabolism in Division for many years, partially those with PWS due to Snord116 In 2017, World Parkinson’s Day due to the impact that Parkinson’s deficiency, at a young age, opening marked 200 years since the disease disease has had on their lives. the door to potential virus-mediated was first identified by Dr James genetic therapy in PWS. Parkinson. Despite ongoing research, What does medical research it is still not known what causes mean to you? Qi et al., J Neuroendocrinol 2017; most cases of Parkinson’s and there The offer of hope to so many, 29. DOI: 10.1111/jne.12457 is no cure. The treatments available often long-suffering, people. only address the symptoms, not Research highlight the progression of the disease. What inspired your first gift to Garvan? Dawn’s long, difficult and very personal What is our RNA Garvan hosted a two-day meeting to battle with Parkinson’s disease. discuss Parkinson’s disease research, really up to? including an initiative to conduct clinical What’s been the biggest reward? trials in Australia. The meeting was Observing the skill and dedication of Ribonucleic acids (RNA) are a class attended by patients, researchers, the medical research community. of molecules responsible for the neurologists, neurosurgeons, Cure expression of our genes and encompass Parkinson’s Trust, Shake It Up What’s your dream for a broad range of functions. A subset of Foundation Australia (partner of healthcare in the future? RNA, long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) The Michael J Fox Foundation for To find a cure would be absolutely are the most diverse class of RNA Parkinson’s Research) and Parkinson’s marvellous, but just as important is molecules and do not encode proteins, Australia. Garvan is committed to the research being done to provide but there is limited understanding of making a difference for the 80,000 a better quality of life and to slow the biological functions of lncRNA. Australians diagnosed with Parkinson’s. the progression of Parkinson’s.
36 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Supporting career goals
This year, Garvan researchers took part – both as mentees and mentors – in a new mentoring program for women in health and medical research, established by Franklin Women and Serendis leadership facilitators.
Dr Marie Dziadek (Chief Scientific Officer, Garvan) coordinated Garvan’s participation in the mentoring program. “Women are under-represented in senior positions in the health and medical research sector,” she says. “The mentoring program aims to help shift that gender imbalance by supporting women to achieve their professional goals.”
In total, the innovative new program involved 54 researchers across 12 health and medical research organisations throughout Sydney and NSW, with 27 women mentees and 27 mentors, both women and men.
Garvan’s Dr Liz Caldon and Dr Tatyana Chtanova were mentored in 2017. Both already lead research teams, in the Cancer and Immunology Divisions respectively, and both aspire to senior positions in the sector.
“I think that, for me, the most important aspect of the mentoring program was that it made me consider the long-term outlook for my research career,” says Dr Chtanova. “In science we often live from grant to grant without stopping to consider the bigger picture. I found myself focusing on questions like where I want to be in five or 10 years, what my ambitions and aspirations are and how I can work towards these goals now.”
Two senior research leaders from Garvan participated as mentors: Professor Peter Croucher and Professor Chris Goodnow. These highly experienced researchers bring substantial leadership skills to the mentoring process.
Professor Croucher reflects on the Institute- wide benefits of Garvan’s participation. “It is not only about supporting female leaders of the future, which is of huge benefit in itself, but it has initiated a whole dialogue about diversity and engagement in leadership across Garvan.”
From left: Dr Liz Caldon and Dr Tatyana Chtanova. garvan.org.au/kccg Centre Report: Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics
Research highlight Vectis and Dnaerys allow researchers to filter by and search for variants, New specialist genes and genomic locations in cohorts, including the Sydney software for Genomics Collaborative’s Medical Genome Reference Bank (MGRB) genomic research and the Australian Genomics Health Alliance’s (AGHA) flagships. These The KCCG Phenomics program has cohorts provide the large-scale developed Patient Archive, specialised data that power research into the software that allows the secure genomic basis of health and disease. storage, use and sharing of patients’ genomic and phenomic data.
Associate Professor Marcel Dinger Patient Archive helps address a key challenge of genomic medicine: From the Head determining the relationship between an individual’s genotype and phenotype Describe your Division’s goal. (their observable characteristics such Realising the clinical value as blood type and disease symptoms). of the genome. “By harmonising phenomic What’s your Division’s information, Patient Archive enables main research focus? the accelerated application of genomic The Vectis interactive dashboard. KCCG now has six teams, each tackling technologies to translational research major challenges in genomics to and patient care,” says Dr Tudor advance the translation of genomic Groza, Phenomics Team Leader. Research highlight information in healthcare. We implement the most advanced genomic Patient Archive converts clinicians’ Long-read sequencing: technologies and mine genomic data notes (phenotype) into standardised at a population-scale to search for language. This allows the program expanding possibilities important changes across the genome. to match patients who have the We also establish genomic tests for same or related conditions, using KCCG’s new nanopore sequencing cancer diagnosis, prognosis and risk their genotype and phenotype. capability has opened up new prediction. We also develop targeted This is especially important for rare possibilities for research and insights education for health professionals, diseases, where there may only be into the genetics of health and disease. patients and communities. a handful of known cases worldwide. Garvan was one of the first two Which Divisions within Garvan do The KCCG Cohort Informatics program facilities worldwide to achieve you work most closely with? is supporting genomic discovery certification to provide nanopore We work closely with many through two platforms, Vectis and sequencing as a service, following divisions in Garvan, including Dnaerys, which allow researchers and KCCG’s acquisition of Oxford Nanopore the Immunology, Genomics and clinicians to explore patient groups. Technologies’ GridION sequencer. Epigenetics, and Cancer Divisions. “Data from large patient cohorts Nanopore sequencing can read very Where do you see KCCG’s helps us understand how many long DNA and RNA molecules, including research heading? thousands of people’s genotypes epigenetic marks. This technology In 2017, KCCG’s mission was connect to their phenotypes, like also allows researchers to watch redefined to focus on realising whether they develop cancer or heart DNA and RNA being sequenced in the clinical value of the genome disease,” says Dr Warren Kaplan, real-time, and even interact with their to enable precision healthcare. Informatics Program Leader. experiments while they are running.
38 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS KCCG organised this event along Teams with the Australian Genomics Health Alliance. The KCCG Education Tumour Genomics Program and Communication team ran or leader and Translational collaborated on a range of other Genome Informatics Program events in 2017, including screening Co-leader: Dr Mark Cowley the sci-fi film Gattaca across Australia as part of National Science Week Head of KCCG and Translational in partnership with Sydney Health Genome Informatics Co‑leader: Ethics at the University of Sydney A/Prof Marcel Dinger to encourage public conversations about genomics, science and ethics. Phenomics Program Dr Martin Smith monitors GridION Leader: Dr Tudor Groza technology, which reads DNA in real time. News highlight Informatics Program Leader: “Nanopore sequencing provides Garvan reaches Dr Warren Kaplan alternative yet complementary capabilities to our short-read 15,000 genomes Genomic Technologies Program technologies, allowing us to Leader: Dr Martin Smith rapidly identify genetic features,” A major milestone for KCCG and says Dr Martin Smith, Genomic Garvan’s wholly owned subsidiary Education and Communication Technologies Program Leader. Genome.One was in sequencing Program Leader: Bronwyn Terrill more than 15,000 whole genomes. The Genomic Technologies team, who configured and now run the GridION, The achievement coincided with Celebrating giving recently claimed the record for the the first anniversary of the launch longest-ever read (1.015Mb). This was of Genome.One, a pioneering The vision and commitment of The also the world’s first continuous DNA health information company Kinghorn Foundation made possible the sequence of more than a million bases. providing genetic answers to creation of both The Kinghorn Cancer health questions through clinical Centre (TKCC) and the Kinghorn Centre News highlight genome sequencing and analysis. for Clinical Genomics (KCCG). The Foundation’s generous donations have Annual Australian KCCG and Genome.One have been enabled Garvan to become the southern at the forefront of clinical genomics, hemisphere’s largest genomics Clinical Genomics winning an award for precision facility. Jill Kinghorn, Co‑founder of the analysis, building a reference bank Foundation, describes her motivations. Symposium of more than 3000 genomes, contributing to the development What does medical research The second year of the symposium of new clinical tests and helping to mean to you? brought together a vibrant community of make life-changing diagnoses. Extending and improving more than 170 clinicians and researchers the quality of life. from across Australia to discuss the These achievements have been role of genomics in healthcare. made possible by bringing together What inspired your first gift to Garvan? clinical and research expertise as part The hope that, within our lifetime, Associate Professor Marcel Dinger of a broader campus-wide initiative people might die with cancer but no outlined his vision for making genomic to enable precision healthcare. one will die of cancer. We believe in information accessible so as to link medical research’s ability to improve clinical practice with research and enable health outcomes for all Australians. genomic information to inform people’s healthcare throughout their lifetime. What’s been the biggest reward? The skill, enthusiasm and Talks from clinicians showed how dedication of the Garvan team. genomics has already found its place in many areas of healthcare. Other What’s your dream for speakers explored the potential healthcare in the future? of genomics for prediction and Personalised, precision and targeted personalised prevention, discussed medicine is the future of healthcare, rapid turnaround testing, and enabling researchers and clinicians introduced new initiatives linking to work together for the treatment research and clinical care. Genome sequencing process on Illumina HiSeq X. and, hopefully, eradication of cancer.
GARVAN.ORG.AU 39 The frontier of precision medicine Genome.One’s services and partnerships have grown and diversified.
The launch of Genome.One in 2016 A pioneering service Precision healthcare marked a turning point in disease partnership diagnosis and healthcare in Australia. The launch of Genome.One’s new personal health management The way in which every person’s body The country’s first clinical whole- service is allowing individuals to responds to medication is influenced by genome sequencing service, owned access new genetic information many factors, but the largest is thought by and based at Garvan, is extending and take a more proactive approach to be our individual genetic make‑up. cutting-edge genomic technology to managing their health. beyond the laboratory, to provide Genome.One partnered with answers to the hundreds of thousands Offered with precinct partners Life US‑based company OneOme to of people affected by genetic disease. First out of the St Vincent’s clinic, the offer pharmacogenomic testing. GoNavigate™ service offers genomic This can unlock information about This year, Genome.One developed testing in tandem with health and how specific drugs will affect new partnerships and diversified lifestyle assessments. This means it can individuals, based on their DNA. beyond diagnostics. We have grown give people a comprehensive picture to four Divisions – Personal Health of their health today, together with Genome.One is offering the Genomics, Disease Diagnostics, insights into their future health risks. pharmacogenomic test to predict how Discovery Genomics and Precision an individual’s DNA will affect their Health Applications. Each Division The test can identify genetic risk for response to 220 different medications, is supporting the global need to 49 conditions – including 31 types of many of which are commonly provide increasingly individualised cancer and 13 heart conditions – as well prescribed to Australian patients. approaches to patient care. as the body’s likely response to more than 220 medications. This information This information is helping patients Personal genomic information not only can help guide people in their future and their doctors consider which empowers individuals to manage health health management decisions. medication may work best for them. risks and potentially prevent disease, it can also optimise their treatment ABC TV’s Ask the Doctor series Joining the dots between in the clinic and drive improvements was among the national media clinical and genetic information across healthcare systems. outlets that highlighted the new service, with co‑host Dr Shalin Genome.One is helping to join the In June, Genome.One released the Naik giving a firsthand report on dots between patient information country’s first clinical service offering the genomic testing process. and genetic data in a partnership with people whole genome sequencing Sanford Health, one of the biggest together with a comprehensive People who take up the Genome.One health networks in the US, to pioneer health assessment. The new test can also choose to share their data novel health information technology. service is now providing valuable for ongoing research. As more genomic insights to help inform individuals’ data is collected and analysed, Sanford Health spans 45 hospitals, future health decisions. researchers will gain even greater nearly 300 clinics and more than 1300 understanding of how each physicians in 80 specialty areas of The Disease Diagnostics Division person’s unique genome can give medicine. The partnership is driving the has developed new genetic tests for insights into health. development of new technology that kidney and cardiac conditions that can translate information from patient are now available to patients, while Initiative to support rare questionnaires, doctors’ clinical notes the use of genomics and large-scale disease diagnosis and other sources into a common data analysis across a wide range of language, so it can be analysed. research and industry projects is the Genome.One has committed 5% focus of the Discovery Division. of revenue from the GoNavigate The project will combine this service to support Australian families comprehensive patient information Meanwhile, those working in the seeking diagnoses for rare and genetic with the most up-to-date genetic Precision Health Applications Division conditions through the iHope network. knowledge to assist doctors in are developing novel software that The initiative aims to provide whole diagnosing rare diseases and will integrate clinical and genomic genome sequencing to under-served help them tailor treatments and information, to reduce healthcare families, helping to end what is often interventions, leading to better costs and improve patient outcomes. a years-long search for a diagnosis. healthcare outcomes for patients.
40 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Genome.One Laboratory Technicians Dilshan Kalpage and Sam Barton. Driving change through collaboration The more productively we work with others, the better placed we are to enable change. These are some of our key partnerships.
Garvan-Weizmann partnership Chancellor, UNSW Sydney and what it can tell us. Machine learning inaugural SPHERE Council Chair), makes it possible to detect patterns One of our most significant global SPHERE comprises 14 NSW within the data, and make connections endeavours, the Garvan-Weizmann organisations – four health services, that have previously been invisible. partnership is featured on page 33. three universities and seven medical research institutes – committed to Garvan joins EMBL Australia Clinical work with St Vincent’s deep cooperation to deliver better healthcare for Sydney and beyond. EMBL Australia is a local life sciences Garvan enjoys a particularly strong organisation modelled on the European relationship with St Vincent’s Hospital, Garvan is actively involved in Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), our close neighbour on the St Vincent’s five of SPHERE’s 12 Clinical Europe’s flagship intergovernmental Campus. More than 30 of Garvan’s Academic Groups: the Triple I research organisation for the life researchers are also clinicians at Partnership (Infection, Immunology sciences. In June, Garvan became St Vincent’s, treating patients with and Inflammation); Stemming a member of the EMBL Australia cancer, metabolic disorders such as the Tide (diabetes, obesity and Partner Laboratory Network. As one type 2 diabetes and bone disorders. metabolic disease); One Genome of five in the Network, Garvan will be Our strong links to St Vincent’s (translating genomic medicine a central contributor to EMBL Australia. ensure that we focus on maximising into clinical care); STREAM Health the clinical impact of our research. (musculoskeletal health); and Cancer. Garvan hosted the first Australian EMBL Alumni event as well as the Several of Garvan’s research and Professor John Mattick was a keynote very successful EMBL Australia clinical leaders were closely involved speaker and panellist at the inaugural Postgraduate Symposium, which in the development of the Clinical SPHERE 2017 Symposium, and was attended by 126 postgraduate Services Strategy – 2027 for the Professor Peter Croucher, who heads students from 28 Australian St Vincent’s Campus, particularly the Garvan’s Bone Biology Division, sits on universities and institutes. Garvan ‘Precision Medicine Strategy’ enabled the SPHERE Council. “I see SPHERE worked with EMBL Australia to by genomics and other technologies. as an unparalleled opportunity to recruit our first EMBL Australia leverage the amazing opportunities Group Leader, in Neurogenomics. In September, we celebrated the that exist across its breadth,” says Dr Robert Weatheritt will join Garvan 25th annual St Vincent’s Campus Professor Croucher. “Together, we from Toronto, Canada, in mid-2018. Research Symposium – an opportunity are actively working to speed the to forge stronger links between St translation of medical research to Securing genomic records Vincent’s Hospital and the research address real-world health problems.” institutes across the Campus. In October, Garvan signed Machine learning and AI a memorandum of understanding Partnership for health with Australian start-up E-Nome. In March, Garvan joined forces with E-Nome is developing a blockchain- Garvan is proud to be an active member Deakin University’s Centre for Pattern enabled platform for secure storage of SPHERE (Sydney Partnership for Recognition and Data Analytics and management of health records. Health, Education, Research and (PRaDA) to accelerate precision Enterprise), which launched in March. medicine through machine learning Together, Garvan and E-Nome will and artificial intelligence. The Garvan- explore its application to the collection In order to reflect the culturally diverse Deakin Program for Advanced Genomic and management of Garvan’s nature of the partnership and to Analysis will use machine learning to research data. “In this era of precision acknowledge our commitment to the uncover more from the vast amounts health, the security and privacy of an Aboriginal community, SPHERE has of genomic information that are being individual’s health information must been gifted the Dharug name Maridulu generated worldwide, and to inform remain paramount,” says Professor Budyari Gumal, meaning ‘Working new precision medicine approaches. John Mattick. “It is our responsibility together for good health and wellbeing’. to actively pursue approaches that can The amount of information in genomic safeguard the genomic information of Brought into being by Professor datasets is almost unimaginable, and individuals while making it available Ian Jacobs (President and Vice- we have only scratched the surface of for research to improve healthcare.”
42 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Aerial view of the St Vincent’s Integrated Healthcare Campus in Darlinghurst, Sydney. Garvan Institute of Medical Research Board of Directors 2017
John Schubert AO Annette Cunliffe Anne Keating Chair RSC Ms Keating is the Dr Schubert is Sister Annette was Chairman of Houlihan Chairman of the the Sisters of Charity Lokey, Australia, an Garvan Institute of Congregational investment bank, and Medical Research, Leader. She has been a Governor of the Chairman of the Great Barrier Reef President of the Conference of Leaders Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation. Foundation, and a Director of the of Religious Institutes, President of She has served on many public Garvan Research Foundation Board. Catholic Religious Australia, Inaugural company boards in various sectors He has held positions as Chairman of Chair of the Stewardship Board over the last 23 years including two the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, of Catholic Health Australia, and medical device companies. She was Non-executive Director of BHP Billiton a Senior Lecturer at the Australian an inaugural Director of the Victor Limited, BHP Billiton Plc, and Qantas Catholic University. She is one of two Chang Cardiac Research Institute. Airways Limited, Chief Executive Executive Officers of the National Officer of Pioneer International Limited, Committee for Professional Standards Anthony Kelleher Chairman of WorleyParsons Limited of the Catholic Church in Australia. (from April) and G2 Therapies Ltd, Chairman and Professor Kelleher MD of Esso Australia Ltd, and Non- Geoff Dixon is the Acting Dean Executive director of Hanson Plc. Mr Dixon was the of the Faculty of Chair of the Garvan Medicine, UNSW. Annabelle Research Foundation In addition, he is the Head of the Bennett AO SC until December. Immunovirology and Pathogenesis The Hon Dr Annabelle He sits on the Laboratory of the Kirby Institute, Bennett was until boards of Crown Resorts Limited, Head of the Infection, Immunity and recently a Judge Adslot Limited and the Museum of Inflammation Theme, UNSW Medicine of the Federal Contemporary Art Australia, and is and a Clinical Immunologist and Court of Australia. She is presently an Ambassador to the Australian Immunopathologist at St Vincent’s Chancellor of Bond University, Indigenous Education Foundation. Hospital, Sydney. He is a Fellow of President of the Anti‑Discrimination He has worked in the media, mining the Australian Academy of Health and Board of NSW, Chair of Landservices and aviation industries, and was Medical Science, a member of The SA, Arbitrator with the Court of Chief Executive of Qantas Airways Australian Society of HIV Medicine, Arbitration for Sport, and on the from 2001 to 2008 and Chairman of the International AIDS Society, and the Advisory Council for Questacon. Dr Tourism Australia from 2009 to 2015. Australian and American Societies of Bennett has extensive knowledge Immunology and has been Practitioner and experience in intellectual property Stephen Johns Fellow of the NHMRC since 2006. arising from her position as a Judge, Mr Johns is Chairman as a Senior Counsel specialising of Brambles Limited Paul Kelly in Intellectual Property and as and Non-executive Dr Kelly is a founding President of the Copyright Tribunal. Director of Goodman Managing Partner of Group. He is a former One-Ventures, one Chairman and Non-executive Director of Australia’s largest of Leighton Holdings Limited and Venture Capital Spark Infrastructure Group, and firms investing in healthcare and life former Executive and Non-executive science companies. An Australian Director of Westfield Group. He has physician, serial entrepreneur and a Bachelor of Economics degree experienced biotechnology and life from the University of Sydney and is sciences executive, he has over 30 a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered years of experience in clinical medicine Accountants in Australia and the and medical science and 20 years Institute of Company Directors. of experience in commercialising life science-related technologies in Australia, Europe and North America.
44 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Thomas John Helen Nugent AO Anthony (Jack) Martin AO Dr Nugent is the M Schembri FAA FRS Chairman of the A/Professor Emeritus Professor National Disability Schembri, CEO Martin is a John Holt Insurance Agency, of St Vincent’s Fellow, St Vincent’s Ausgrid, and Heath Network, Institute of Medical Research and Australian Rail Track Corporation and holds academic appointments with Emeritus Professor of Medicine, a Non-executive Director of Insurance the St Vincent’s Clinical Schools University of Melbourne. He was Australia Group Limited. She has been of UNSW and Australian Catholic previously the Director of St Vincent’s the Chairman of Veda Group, Funds University. He is a director of the Institute of Medical Research and SA, Swiss Re (Australia) and Sydney Central and Eastern Sydney Primary the Chairman of the University of Airport and a Non-executive Director Health Network, St Vincent’s Curran Melbourne Department of Medicine. of Macquarie Group, Origin Energy Foundation, National Centre for Clinical A Fellow of the Royal Society and of Limited, Mercantile Mutual and the Research for Emerging Drugs and the Australian Academy of Science, he State Bank of NSW, among others. She Co-chair of the Nursing Research was also President of the International is an Officer of the Order of Australia Institute and a Trustee of the Peter Bone and Mineral Society. and a recipient of the Australian Duncan Neurosciences Unit. Government Centenary Medal. Professor John Russell Mattick Patricia O’Rourke Scrimshaw AO FAA FTSE Professor O’Rourke is Mr Scrimshaw is Professor Mattick the CEO of St Vincent’s the Non‑executive was appointed Health Australia’s Chairman of Sirius Executive Director Public Hospitals Minerals and the in 2012. He has a distinguished Division. She also Executive Chairman of Torrus Capital, career in molecular biology, most serves on the board of the Aikenhead the Australian Philanthropic Fund, the recently as an NHMRC Australia Centre for Medical Discovery. She is Scrimshaw Foundation and Scrimshaw Fellow and Director of the Institute a graduate of the Australian Institute of Nominees. Previously, he held for Molecular Bioscience, University Company Directors and a member of executive positions at Fortescue Metals of Queensland. He was awarded the the Harvard Business Club of Australia. Group Ltd (FMG), Commonwealth 2011 IUBMB (International Union Bank, Optus and IBM. He was also of Biochemistry and Molecular Rodney Phillips a non-executive Board Director Biology Medal, the 2012 HUGO Professor Phillips, for Genome.One, Commonwealth (Human Genome Organisation) Chen Dean of UNSW Properties, EDS Australia, Mobilesoft Medal, membership of the European Medicine, is an and Athletics Australia. Molecular Biology Organisation immunologist whose and Fellowship of the Australian research impacted Jillian Segal AM Academy of Science, the Australian the world’s understanding of HIV/ Ms Segal is the Academy of Technology & Engineering AIDS and other infectious diseases. Deputy Chancellor and the Australian Academy of He described, for the first time, of UNSW Sydney, Health and Medical Sciences. how HIV evades the body’s immune Chairman of AICC defences. Previously, Professor (NSW), the General Phillips was Vice-Dean of Medical Sir John Monash Foundation, and the Sciences at Oxford University and Independent Parliamentary Expenses Director of the Peter Medawar Authority (IPEA). She is a Trustee of Building for Pathogen Research. the Sydney Opera House, a Director of the Grattan Institute, and a Director of Rabobank Australia Ltd, Rabobank New Zealand Ltd and Rabo Australia Ltd. She has been a senior regulator, lawyer and a director of other listed and government organisations.
GARVAN.ORG.AU 45 Garvan Research Foundation Board of Directors 2017
Geoff Dixon Gabriel Farago Helen McCabe Chair (until Nov 2017) Mr Farago practised Ms McCabe is the Mr Dixon is the as a solicitor and Head of Lifestyle Chairman of the barrister for over 30 for Nine.com.au at Garvan Research years, specialising Nine Entertainment Foundation and in commercial Co. Prior to this also sits on the boards of Crown disputes in Australia and overseas, she was Editor-in-Chief at the The Resorts Limited and the Museum before becoming a full-time writer. His Australian Women’s Weekly, Deputy of Contemporary Art Australia. He books – The Empress Holds the Key Editor of The Sunday Telegraph, Night is an Ambassador to the Australian and The Hidden Genes of Professor Editor of The Australian and held key Indigenous Education Foundation. K – were released in 2013 and 2016. roles on The Daily Telegraph. She is He has worked in the media, mining In 1984, Mr Farago became a member also on the board of the Australian and aviation industries, and was of the Knightly Order of Vitez. Indigenous Education Fund and an Chief Executive of Qantas Airways Ambassador for Adopt Change. from 2001 to 2008 and Chairman of Mr Loftus Harris Tourism Australia from 2009 to 2015. Mr Harris is Simon Mordant a professional Non- AM Jane Allen Executive Director and Mr Mordant is Ms Allen runs an advisor to industry Executive Co‑chairman a Governance and government. He of Luminis Partners. Advisory business. has been the Chair and a member of He is also the Chair Previously she was numerous national, state and industry of the Museum of Contemporary a Managing Partner bodies concerned with issues of Art Australia and Lend Lease at Egon Zehnder, where she also economic development, international Barangaroo Public Art Committee, held a leadership role across Asia trade and investment, infrastructure, a board member of the Australian Pacific. A member of Chief Executive innovation and technology. He Broadcasting Corporation, MOMA Women, Ms Allen has an MBA previously held various executive PS1 in New York, Wharton Executive from Harvard Business School and positions in the NSW, Queensland Board in Asia, a Trustee of the American a Bachelor of Arts from Smith College. and Commonwealth public sectors. Academy in Rome and a member She has also worked for Procter & of the Executive Committee of Tate Gamble in the US and Australia. Professor John International Council and a member Mattick of the International Council of the Michael Cannon- AO FAA FTSE Museum of Modern Art in New York. Brookes Sr Professor Mattick was (From Mar 2017) appointed Executive John Schubert Mr Cannon-Brookes is Director in 2012. He AO a Director of Cannon- has a distinguished career in molecular Dr Schubert is Brookes Consulting biology, most recently as an NHMRC Chairman of the Pty Ltd. He retired from IBM in July Australia Fellow and Director of the Garvan Institute of 2012, where he was IBM’s Vice Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Medical Research President, Global Strategy for Growth University of Queensland. He was and Chairman of the Great Barrier Reef Markets, based in Shanghai, China. awarded the 2011 IUBMB (International Foundation. He has held positions Mr Cannon-Brookes, a UK citizen, Union of Biochemistry and Molecular as Chairman of the Commonwealth took Australian citizenship in 1994. He Biology Medal, the 2012 HUGO Bank of Australia, Non-executive graduated with Honours in Law from (Human Genome Organisation) Chen Director of BHP Billiton Limited, Cambridge University. He was elected Medal, membership of the European BHP Billiton Plc, and Qantas Airways a Fellow of the Australian Institute Molecular Biology Organisation Limited, Chief Executive Officer of Company Directors in July 2013. and Fellowship of the Australian of Pioneer International Limited, Academy of Science, the Australian Chairman of WorleyParsons Limited Academy of Technology & Engineering and G2 Therapies Ltd, Chairman and and the Australian Academy of MD of Esso Australia Ltd, and Non- Health and Medical Sciences. executive Director of Hanson Plc.
46 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Russell Scrimshaw (From Nov 2017) Mr Scrimshaw is the Non-executive Chairman of Sirius Minerals Plc and the Executive Chairman of Torrus Capital, the Australian Philanthropic Fund, the Scrimshaw Foundation and Scrimshaw Nominees. Previously, he held executive positions at Fortescue Metals Group Ltd (FMG), Commonwealth Bank, Optus and IBM. He was also a Non-executive Director of Genome.One, Commonwealth Properties, EDS Australia, Mobilesoft Ltd, Telecom New Zealand Australia Pty Ltd and Athletics Australia. Mr Scrimshaw is a Non-executive Director of the Garvan Institute.
Jeanne-Claude Strong Dr Strong graduated in medicine, and also has a BA (literature) and a post-graduate degree in Applied Finance and Investment. She was on the Board of Bluearth, flew her Beechcraft Baron plane from California to Australia via Europe and races Etchells yachts including recent wins in Australasian, Queensland and Victorian championships.
Peter Young AM Mr Young formally joined Standard Life Investments in 2013 as their Australasia Chairman. He is also currently a Non-executive Director of the Sydney Theatre Company and a member of the Barangaroo Delivery Authority Board. He is a recipient of the Centenary Medal and, in 2008, was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his services Daniel Reed, Research Assistant, to business and commerce. Invasion and Metastasis. Awards and achievements This is just a selection of the honours received by Garvan researchers.
Marina Pajic named Outstanding Cancer Research Fellow Dr Marina Pajic was named the Cancer Institute NSW Outstanding Cancer Research Fellow for 2017. Dr Pajic’s work focuses on the development of new personalised therapies for pancreatic cancer. The awards, hosted by the Cancer Institute NSW, honour the achievements of the individuals and teams that work across cancer research, and celebrate excellence and innovation in the field.
‘Father of gene cloning’ to head Australian Academy Of Science Professor John Shine AC has been elected President of the Australian Academy of Science. Professor Shine became world-renowned for a series of discoveries he made between 1975 to 1985 that furthered our understanding of genes, and was the first to clone Dr Marina Pajic receives the NSW Outstanding Cancer Research Fellow award from Professor David human hormone genes that has helped Currow FAHMS, the Chief Cancer Officer of NSW and Chief Executive Officer of Cancer Institute NSW. transform the world of biotechnology. Professor Shine was Executive Director the scientific community, including his won the 2017 Ranji and Amara of Garvan from 1990 to 2012 and longstanding work to assign function Wikramanayake Clinical Diabetes still runs his own lab, investigating to non-coding DNA, his scientific Research Award, while Professor gene mutations responsible for leadership and his status as a champion Chisholm was awarded the Inaugural inherited kidney disorders. of genomics in Australia. He was also ADS Lifetime Achievement Award. formally welcomed as a new Australian Ramaciotti Medal: high honours Academy of Technological Sciences Garvan breast cancer researcher for Professor Susan Clark and Engineering Fellow (FTSE). awarded 10-year Endowed Chair The Annual Ramaciotti Medal for Associate Professor Elgene Lim, Excellence in Biomedical Research Professor Tuan Nguyen receives breast cancer researcher at the Garvan has been awarded to Professor Susan UNSW’s highest academic award Institute of Medical Research, The Clark FAA, honouring her game- Professor Tuan Nguyen has been Kinghorn Cancer Centre and medical changing research in epigenetics and awarded a Doctorate of Science (DSc) oncologist at St Vincent’s Hospital, epigenomics. The Award, a grant of from UNSW. Higher Doctorates are Sydney, is one of two inaugural $50,000, honours an individual who the highest academic award conferred recipients of the National Breast has made an outstanding discovery (or by UNSW Sydney, and Professor Cancer Foundation Endowed Chair discoveries) in clinical or experimental Nguyen’s award is testament to his Program. A new and unique concept biomedical research that has had outstanding contributions to our for breast cancer research in Australia, an important impact on biomedical understanding of osteoporosis. Endowed Chairs are designed to keep science, clinical science, or the way mid-career researchers in Australia in which healthcare is delivered. Top diabetes awards for Garvan leaders and focused on research that will lead Three prestigious awards from the to the next major breakthrough. Professor John Mattick honoured Australian Diabetes Society commend In 2017, Professor John Mattick the outstanding achievements of Professor Jonathan Sprent elected to received two prestigious recognitions. Professors Mark Febbraio, Jerry US National Academy of Sciences The Lemberg Medal from the Greenfield and Don Chisholm AO. Professor Sprent of the Immunology Australian Society for Biochemistry and Professor Febbraio won the 2017 Division has been newly elected Molecular Biology honours Professor Australian Diabetes Society (ADS) as a member of the US National Mattick’s significant contributions to Kellion Award. Professor Greenfield Academy of Sciences. Membership
48 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS is considered one of the highest the International Pancreas and Islet the level of two enzymes that have honours that a scientist can achieve. Transplant Association (IPITA). The been linked to the development and Professor Sprent is one of the competitive scholarship is awarded progression of breast cancer, using 25 most eminent immunologists of biennially to a research scientist in the years of serum samples. The $50,000 his generation. He is recognised field of islet or pancreas transplantation award is in honour of much-loved in particular for his contributions who has demonstrated outstanding Ridley employee Ken Davies who to our understanding of T cells – research merit and future potential. passed away from cancer in 2015. blood cells that play a central role in defending the body against disease. Young Garvan Edgy Ideas Awards Palmer Innovation Prize Dr Joanne Reed, of Garvan’s Joseph Palmer & Sons, Australia’s Success for Garvan researchers Immunology Division, has been oldest brokerage firm, and its at key bone biology conference awarded the 2017 State Custodians philanthropic arm, the Joseph Palmer Four members of the Bone Biology Young Garvan ‘Edgy Ideas’ Award for Foundation, awards an annual Palmer Division received awards at the joint her work on targeting rogue clones Innovation Prize of $15,000 to a Garvan annual scientific meeting of the responsible for autoimmune disease. researcher or team for developing Australian and New Zealand Bone Three finalists are selected on scientific an innovative product, process and Mineral Society (ANZBMS) merit from all applications by members or technology that has significant and the International Federation of of Garvan’s Executive Management benefit to scientific research, clinical Musculoskeletal Research Societies Group. The program, sponsored by application or education. Dr Sean (IFMRS). Dr Michelle McDonald won an State Custodians, provides a unique Warren was awarded the prize for the Amgen-ANZBMS Outstanding Abstract forum for Garvan’s young and early-mid development of a new multichannel Award, for the third year in a row; Scott career researchers to pitch an innovative biosensor imaging system, which Youlten received the Christopher and idea to a crowd of young professionals, enables researchers to visualise and Margie Nordin Young Investigator Poster with the winner receiving a $25,000 analyse the activity of multiple drug Award; Thao Ho-Le won the prestigious cash prize to investigate the idea. targets in live cells and tissues. Sol Posen Research Award for the best first-author publication submitted in the Garvan genomic researchers shine Heliflite Young Explorer Award previous 18 months; and Dr Weiwen Five early-career researchers have Each year, two researchers are Chen won the MSD ANZBMS Clinical received awards at the conference of awarded $5,000 to facilitate Research Excellence Award. Australasian Genomic Technologies international travel to conferences Association (AGTA) and Epigenetics and laboratories to foster career Pathfinders award shines a light 2017, the meeting of the Australian development. Dr Liz Caldon will use the on DNA packaging in cancer Epigenetics Alliance. Congratulations prize to attend the Gordon Research Katherine Giles and Qian Du have been to Dr Mark Pinese, Best Early Conference – Hormone Dependent announced as the joint winners of the Researcher Talk Award; Simon Cancers: Functional and Clinical Insight inaugural Pathfinders Award. The award, Hardwick, Best Student Talk Award; in Hormone Dependent Cancers in a grant of $10,000, was established by Clare Puttick, Best Student Poster the US. Dr Ruth Pidsley will attend the collective giving group Pathfinders Presentation Award; James Ferguson, the Symposium on Proteases and the to help kickstart an early-stage Late‑Breaking Poster Award; and Qian Tumour Microenvironment in Italy. cancer research project at Garvan. Du, winner of the Young Investigator Award at Epigenetics 2017. Done in 180 seconds: snappy science Travel awards support from precinct PhD students conference attendances CHAMP Young Pioneer Award Eight PhD students entertained and The annual Stuart Furler Travel Awards Presented annually by CHAMP Private informed their audience at the 2017 have been awarded to Garvan PhD Equity, this award aims to assist an St Vincent’s Precinct Three Minute students Simon Hardwick and Deborah early- or mid-career researcher to Thesis competition, held at Garvan. Burnett. The awards, presented to test an innovative research idea. Dr 3MT competitions are held around third-year PhD students at Garvan Simon Junankar, who received the the globe, and all follow a specific with outstanding research records and 2017 Award, will use it to understand format: PhD students are given bright futures, provide $5000 to support why some cancer patients experience just three minutes to explain their travel to attend a major international accelerated tumour growth following research in a compelling manner, conference, as well as to visit labs of immunotherapy treatment. easily understood by a non‑specialist potential collaborators. Additionally, audience. The three winners were Dr transplant researcher Dr Nathan Zammit Ridley Ken Davies Award Louis Wang (Victor Chang), Bethany received the Derek Gray Distinguished Dr Thomas Cox was awarded the Pillay (Immunology) and Etienne Travelling Scholarship Award from prize for his project that looks at Masle-Farquhar (Immunology).
GARVAN.ORG.AU 49 PhD completions Congratulations to the students awarded PhDs in 2017.
At Garvan, we have close to 100 Mun Hui Gary Morris PhD students researching in Supervised by A/ Prof Alex Swarbrick, Supervised by Dr Bryce Vissel. almost every disease area across Prof Sandra O’Toole, Dr Aurelie Cazet. “Investigating the neuroprotective the Institute. In partnership “The hedgehog epithelial- capabilities of glial-derived with UNSW Sydney, through stromal crosstalk in triple neurotrophic factor following which most of our students are negative breast cancer.” intraluminal filament middle cerebral enrolled, Garvan is committed artery occlusion in mice.” to supporting the important Christoph Jandl contributions our students make Supervised by A/Prof Cecile King. Nancy Mourad in the development of scientific “Cytokines in the germinal centre Supervised by Prof Peter Croucher, knowledge and skills for the future. reaction to T-dependent antigen.” Dr Michelle McDonald. “Defining the transcriptomic Femi Ayeni Anton Kalsbeek profile of dormant breast cancer Supervised by Prof David Ryugo, Supervised by Prof Vanessa Hayes, cells in the skeleton.” Dr Michael Muniak, A/ Prof Phillip Stricker. Prof Catherine McMahon. “The mitochondrial genome as Beverley Murrow “Hearing loss and sound amplification: a biomarker for prostate cancer.” Supervised by Prof David James, effects on the central auditory system.” Prof Greg Cooney. Claudia Loetsch “Role of guanine nucleotide Laura Baker Supervised by A/Prof Cecile King, exchange factors for Rab10 in insulin- Supervised by A/Prof Alex Swarbrick, Dr Tatyana Chtanova, regulated GLUT4 trafficking.” Prof Susan Clark, Dr Jason Carroll. A/Prof Mark Danta. “Inhibitor of Differentiation 4: a new “The role of viral sensing in the Adnan Nagrial player in the DNA damage repair development of autoimmunity.” Supervised by Prof Andrew Biankin, pathway in basal-like breast cancer.” Prof Lisa Horvath, Dr Marina Pajic. Jesper Maag “Investigation of predictive Mei Chan Supervised by A/Prof Marcel Dinger, and prognostic biomarkers Supervised by Prof Tuan Nguyen, Dr Warren Kaplan. in pancreatic cancer.” Prof John Eisman. “Computational analysis of ncRNA “Contribution of quantitative involved in cancer development Liam O’Rielly ultrasound measurements to and memory formation.” Supervised by Prof Trevor Biden, fracture risk assessment.” A/ Prof Carsten Schmitz-Peiffer. Lee Marshall “The role of macrophages in the Venessa Chin Supervised by A/ Prof Antony Cooper. regulation of β-cell function.” Supervised by Dr Marina Pajic, “Identifying transcriptional Prof Andrew Biankin, changes contributing to the Xiu Cheng Quek Prof Stephen Clarke. susceptibility and degeneration in Supervised by A/ Prof Marcel Dinger, “Preclinical testing of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease.” Prof Richard Epstein. individualised therapy strategies “Computational characterisation of for pancreatic cancer.” Christopher Meoli the transcriptional landscape and Supervised by Prof David James, long non-coding RNAs in cancer.” Angela Chou Prof Greg Cooney. Supervised by Dr Marina Pajic, “Metabolic responses to high Ksenia Skvortsova A/Prof Anthony Gill, A/Prof Adrienne fat diet–induced obesity: the Supervised by Dr Clare Stirzaker, Morey, Prof Andrew Biankin. long and short of it.” Prof Susan Clark. “Novel therapeutic strategies for “DNA hypermethylation of treatment of pancreatic cancer.” Annabel Minard promoter CpG islands in cancer.” Supervised by Prof David James, Dr Ira Deveson Jacqueline Stoeckli, Prof Trevor Biden. Johana Susanto Supervised by Prof John Mattick, “Metabolic homeostasis in the Supervised by Prof Andrew Biankin. Dr Tim Mercer, Dr Michael Janitz. adipocyte – a study on insulin-regulated “Investigating the use of retinoids “Three (largely unrelated) proteostasis and FGF21 signalling.” and epigenetic modification agents experiments in the age of next- as new therapeutic strategies for the generation sequencing.” treatment of pancreatic cancer.”
50 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Post-doc development To come together, engage and collaborate.
Kirupa Suthakar Supervised by Prof David Ryugo, Prof Catherine McMahon. “Changes to the descending auditory system in hearing loss: focus on auditory efferents.”
Alice Tang Supervised by Prof Jerry Greenfield, Dr Dorit Samocha-Bonet. “Insulin-sensitive obesity: prospective and interventional studies.” Dr Michael Bowen presents at the 2017 Annual Post Doc Symposium.
Tommaso Torcellan The Post-Doctoral Development • Six educational seminars showcasing Supervised by Dr Tatyana Committee (PDDC) facilitates new and existing facilities, expertise Chtanova, Prof Robert Brink. education and social events for and knowledge in the precinct, “The fate of tumour- post-docs and group leaders across and numerous social events. egressing T cells in tumour the St. Vincent’s Precinct. immune responses.” 2017 PDDC members: Committee members represent each Co-chairs Emily Edwards Claire Vennin Research Division within Garvan, (Garvan, Immunology) and David Supervised by A/Prof Paul as well as the Victor Chang Cardiac Herrmann (Garvan, Cancer) Timpson, Dr Marina Pajic. Research Institute and St. Vincent’s Secretaries Marcia Munoz (Garvan, “Fine-tuned ECM manipulation via Centre for Applied Medical Research. Bone) and Niall Byrne (Garvan, Bone) Rho-kinase inhibition uncouples In 2017, the Committee organised: Communications/Treasurer pancreatic cancer progression, Brigid O’Gorman (Garvan, Foundation) sensitivity to chemotherapy • 2017 Annual Post Doc Symposium Members Carole Ford (AMR), and metastasis, as assessed (with the 25th St. Vincent’s Campus Gayathri Sundaram (AMR), by intravital imaging.” Research Symposium), attended Gonzalo del Monte (VCCRI), Jeng by more than 100 participants Yie Chan (Garvan, Diabetes and Natalie Wee from across the precinct. Metabolism), Nathan Zammit (Garvan, Supervised by A/Prof Paul Baldock, Immunology), Matthew Perry Prof Herbert Herzog. • 2017 Careers Forum with more than (VCCRI), Nenad Bartonicek (Garvan, “Obesity-induced bone loss 100 student and post-doc attendees Genomics and Epigenetics), is regulated by a neuropeptide discussing different career paths Samantha Oakes (Garvan, Cancer), Y mechanism.” available to scientists in current times. Simon Junankar (Garvan, Cancer).
Adelaide Young Supervised by Prof Chris Ormandy, Dr Samantha Oakes, Dr David Gallego-Ortega. “The role of MCL-1 in triple negative breast cancer.”
Mahdi Zeraati Supervised by A/Prof Marcel Dinger, A/Prof Daniel Christ. “Examination of the biological role of i-Motif and G-quadruplex nucleic acid structures.” Committee members, left to right: Dr Jeng Yie Chan, Dr Emily Edwards, Dr Niall Byrne, Dr Brigid O’Gorman, Dr David Herrmann, Dr Carole Ford, Dr Nathan Zammit, Dr Simon Junankar, Dr Nenad Bartonicek. In memoriam This year, Garvan mourned the passing of four of our inspirational Life Governors and one of our extraordinary researchers. We will miss them.
John Armati, 1940 – 2017 Pieter Huveneers, 1925 – 2017 Love Your Sister made significant contributions to Garvan, allowing the A philanthropic businessman who left Pieter Huveneers received his establishment of the Connie Johnson his mark on the city of Dubbo and its academic training in the Netherlands, Breast Cancer Research Lab and people, John Armati is remembered for graduating in four languages just appointment of Associate Professor his drive and vision. He turned a small after the completion of WWII. Elgene Lim as its head in 2014. western NSW newspaper group into a publishing empire of 64 mastheads. Moving to the UK, he gained The lab’s researchers continue to prominence designing posters for work towards finding new treatments Embracing the new technology of the the British Post Office, alongside for breast cancer and to improve 1970s, he transformed his operations work for large companies including outcomes for patients, so that – becoming the first newspaper BOAC, British Railways, Schweppes, fewer people have to experience proprietor in Australia to use visual General Electric Company, ICI, British what Connie herself endured. display terminals – and created a vast Aluminium and Pepsi Cola. He was magazine business. Mr Armati was at also instrumental in forming a school This sister, wife, mother and public the helm of Macquarie Publications for for automotive design in England. heroine inspired so many. three decades, from 1962 to 1995. Intrigued by the Australian market, he Dr Paul Lee, 1977 – 2017 Local newspapers were, in his words, established himself in Sydney in 1969, the heart of their communities. quickly gaining a reputation for his It was with great sadness to the people comprehensive identity programs. of Garvan that our friend and colleague Lady Mary Fairfax AC OBE, Dr Paul Lee passed away unexpectedly. 1922 – 2017 Mr Huveneers was responsible for nearly 70 names and logos for Paul was a highly regarded member With the passing of Lady Mary Australian corporations, including of Garvan’s Diabetes and Metabolism Fairfax, Australia lost an iconic such well known organisations as Division, and a successful young businesswoman, social influencer, Westpac, Australia Post, Telecom, scientist whose research was charity worker and philanthropist. Dulux, Myer, ICI Australia (to name recognised by numerous awards She left many good causes the better a few). Many of the original marks and grants. His truly positive and in her wake. Garvan is honoured to are still in use today, a testament to friendly presence in the corridors be among them. Lady Fairfax was Huveneers’ reductive design approach. of Garvan will be greatly missed. one of Garvan’s first major donors and without her generosity and Constance (Connie) Johnson Within St Vincent’s hospital, commitment, the Institute would not OAM, 1977 – 2017 Paul was a brilliant and talented be in the leading position it is today. endocrinologist who was immensely It is impossible to overestimate devoted to his patients. Notably, her support allowed Garvan Connie Johnson’s impact on cancer to develop a successful hearing research at Garvan, and as a beacon As a member of the St Vincent’s research program, which works of inspiration for people with cancer Endocrinology Department he was towards understanding how the brain and the general public in Australia. a valuable team player and a major changes when hearing loss occurs, contributor to the Department’s and how hearing might be restored. Connie was diagnosed with cancer status as a leader at the cutting three times, at ages 11, 22 and edge of patient care; a clinician Lady Fairfax appreciated the finally at 33 in 2010, when she was determined to see research urgent need for researching this given six to 12 months to live. breakthroughs make a swift widespread and problematic transition to the patient bedside. affliction, which includes increased In defiance of her prognosis, she risk for dementia and depression. directed her energy into ‘cancer Paul was a loyal and supportive vanquishment’ and co-founded colleague and a mentor to all the We are incredibly grateful to Lady Love Your Sister with her brother, junior members of his team and Fairfax for her generosity and foresight. actor Samuel Johnson, in 2012. the wider hospital campus.
52 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Leaders in Science and Society seminars Thank you to those who presented at the Garvan Institute in 2017.
Garvan’s Leaders in Science and MAY Professor Alan Cooper, Director, Society seminars feature renowned Professor Glenn Marshall, Australian Centre for Ancient Australian and international Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney DNA, University of Adelaide speakers from a variety of Children’s Hospital Sydney organisations to engage, educate Professor Aleksandra Filipovska, and inspire our researchers. Dr Elissa Deenick, Laboratory NHMRC Senior Research Fellow, The Head, Lymphocyte Signalling and University of Western Australia School Activation, Garvan Institute of Molecular Sciences and The Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research JANUARY Professor John Hopper, NHMRC Dr Mark Chee, Chief Executive Senior Principal Research Fellow, OCTOBER Officer, Prognosys Biosciences Director of Twins Research Australia, Professor Seth Grant, Professor University of Melbourne of Molecular Neuroscience, FEBRUARY Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, Professor Greg Gibson, Professor JUNE Edinburgh University of Integrative Genomics, Georgia Professor Emad El-Omar, Institute of Technology Professor of Medicine, Editor in Hon Jillian Skinner, Previous Chief, GUT, UNSW Sydney Minister for Health and Minister Professor Bruce Stillman, President, for Medical Research Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, US Professor David Thomas, Director – The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Division Professor Peter Jones, Van Andel Dr Dinshaw J Patel, Abby Rockefeller Head – Cancer, Garvan Institute Research Institute Chief Scientific Mauze Chair in Experimental Officer, Distinguished Professor and Therapeutics, Memorial Sloan JULY Director of the Center for Epigenetics Kettering Cancer Center, US Professor Ada Yonath, Weizmann Institute of Science Emeritus Professor Simon MARCH Chapman, Sydney School of Public Professor Wieland Huttner, Professor Mark Febbraio, Health, University of Sydney Managing Director, Max Planck Division Head – Diabetes and Institute of Molecular Cell Biology Metabolism, Garvan Institute NOVEMBER and Genetics, Dresden, Germany Professor James Whisstock, AUGUST Director, ARC Centre of Excellence in Professor Mark Smyth, QIMR Professor Robert Graham, Head of Advanced Molecular Imaging, Scientific Berghofer Medical Research Institute Cardiac Receptor Biology Laboratory, Head, EMBL Australia, NHMRC Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Senior Principal Research Fellow, Professor Ingrid Scheffer, Epilepsy Department of Biochemistry and Research Centre, University of Dr Scott Watkins, KISCO, Pollinate Molecular Biology, Monash University Melbourne, Melbourne Brain Centre Energy and parkrun Australia Professor Peter Croucher, Head Professor David Cooper, Director, Professor Adrian Liston, Professor – Bone Biology, Garvan Institute The Kirby Institute, Sydney of Translational Immunology, University of Leuven, Belgium DECEMBER APRIL Professor Sharon Lewin, Director, Mr Thomas Barlow, Barlow Advisory Mr Scott Farquhar, CEO, Atlassian The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Professor Matt Cooper, Institute SEPTEMBER University of Melbourne for Molecular Bioscience, The Professor Michelle Simmons, University of Queensland Director, Centre for Quantum Computational & Communication Technology, UNSW Sydney
GARVAN.ORG.AU 53 Partners for the Future We extend our gratitude to all of these wonderful supporters who have chosen to leave a bequest to Garvan in their Wills.
Mrs Margaret Adams Mr Rodney F Darke In memory of Patricia Mrs Nelis Loustrau Ms Ronelle Adams Mr & Mrs Kevin and Helen Guest Ms Maria Lydaki Ms Heather Adie Sylvia Davies Ms Angela Guildford Mrs Gwenda Macdonald Ms Christine Allen Mr Kenneth Davies In memory of Barbara Guy Ms Moyra Maestros Mrs Suzanne Allen Mr & Mrs Don and Trevor Haines AO and Paul White Dr Harry Marget Mr & Mrs V and E Annuk Christine Davison Mr Hedley Hall Dr Norman Marshall Ms Wilhelmina Antoniesen Miss Clare Dawes Mrs Shirley Harding-Learmont Mrs Doreen NE Martin Mr Ian A N Armstrong Mr Michael Day Miss Helen Hardman Miss Denise Martin Mr Peter Askew Mr Thomas Delisi The Hayes Family Donna Mae Mason Miss Margaret Atkinson Mr & Mrs Tom and Mr Brian Hayes Mr Lance Matheson The Australian Ladies Donna Devitt Mr & Mrs W and V Haynes Mrs Nina Mavro Variety Association Inc Mr John Dickens and The Late Mr Philip Hemstritch Ms Sharon McAuliffe Dr W. Michael Baker Dr Ian Payne Mrs Frances Hession Mr Desmond J McCarthy Mr & Mrs Joseph and Mrs Marlene Dixon Mr Brian Hewson Mr Stuart McCulloch Elizabeth (Betty) Banhidi Mr John Dobies Mr John Thomas Hill Mr & Mrs Terry and Mr Peter Bolton and Mr John Dowd Mr Kenneth Hillier Lynette McGarrigle Mr Alan Barnes Ms Jennifer Duncan Ms Heather P Hindle Mr John Robert McLure Mr & Mrs David and Mr Alan Durham Mrs Dawne Hintze Mr & Mrs Warren J and Robyn Barnett Mrs Valda Eastment Mr & Mrs Lionel and Pamela A McNamara Mr Wal Barrett Mrs Elizabeth Efinger Gwen Hirning Ms Anne McNiven Mrs Esther Bartram The Evans Family In memory of the McDonough Mrs Alice Miglionico Mr Donald Bastin Miss Moir Evans and Hogan Families Mr & Mrs David and Ms James Belger Mrs Wai Chiew Fairley Mr Hilton Hollingdale Renata Money Mrs Sheila Bell Ms Daile Falconer and Ms Ruth Holmes Mr John Kelvin Moody Mr & Mrs Peter and Mr Thomas Delisi Richard J Hudson Mrs Jeannette Muggridge Susanne de Beuzeville Mr & Mrs Gabriel Mrs Eileen Hunter Mr Geoffrey Murphy Mr Leslie B Blackshaw and Joan Farago Ms Edith Iseli Miss Caroline Needham Mr Ken Bloxsom Mrs Grace Faulks Miss V Jenkins Mrs Margaret Neyle Caroline Bock Ms Jann Ferguson Mr Byram Johnston OAM Dr Elizabeth Niven Ms Linda Booth Ms Susanne de Ferranti and Mrs Deborah Johnston Mr Desmond Nolan Mr & Mrs Earle and Ms Diane Ferrier Mrs Florence Jones Mr & Mrs Stewart and Marlene Boutwell Fred Fiegert Lloyd Gwyn Jones and June Northam Mrs Meryl Bowman Mrs Frances Findley Barbara Jones Wayne and Gretina Norton Ms Maree Bowman Ms Shirley R Ford Dr W G Grigor Mrs Carol O’Carroll Mr & Mrs Alan and Anne Boyle Ms Jan Foster Mr & Mrs Terry and Helen Jones Mrs Joan O’Hara Dr William R Bradford Mr & Mrs Michael Mr & Mrs Patrick and Mr Gary Lindsay O’Leary Mrs Judith Bradley and Joy Foulsham Beryl Keane Mrs Margaret O’Leary Ms Mary Brauer Dr & Mrs John and Warwick and Carole Kendall Mr W R O’Leary Mr Trevor Bray Diana Francis Mrs Isabel (Rae) Kennedy Mr Peter Olive Mr Peter Brell Mr Donald Frazer Ms Wendy Keys Miss Betty Olsen Drs Ruth and Des Bright Elizabeth Fyffe Mrs Kate Khan Mr & Mrs Ronald and Mrs June Bronner Mrs Lina Joan Gallo Mr Frank Killion Naomi Osborn Philip and Wendy Brook and Mr Lauro Gallo Mr & Mrs Jeffry and Lyn Kirby Miss Winnie Pang Jennifer Brown Mrs Gwen Gardiner Mr W Bruce Kirkpatrick OAM Mr & Mrs Justin and Mrs Elizabeth Bunyan Ms Maureen Garvey-Ross and Mrs Juliet Kirkpatrick Judith Parker Mrs Barbara E Buttery Mr John Gea Gea Ms Lili Koch Ms Jane Parker Dr John Campbell Girgensohn Foundation Hendrika Kramer Mr Rene Patat and Mr Angelo Casella Miss Edwina Glinoga Mr Christopher Ladd Mr Geoffrey Priest Mrs Kristine Catchpole Miss Estrella Glinoga Ms Gabriella Lang Mr Donald Payne Mrs Veronica Christie Miss Excelsa Glinoga Mr Barry Thompson and Mrs Pauline Perry Mrs Judith Clark Mrs Mena Valerie Good Ms Roberta Lauchlan Mrs June Pick CE Clark Mr & Mrs William and Mrs & Mr Virginia Mr Tony Plunkett Ms Jill Coggan Jacqueline Goodyear and Kevin Leacy Mr Alan Pollock Dr & Mrs Roger and Mrs Helen Victoria Graham Ms Elizabeth Lee Mrs Elaine Porter Carole Cole Dr & Mrs Robert and Jane Gray Mrs Nina Leibovitch Mr & Mrs Edmund and Mrs Robyn Collings Ms Claire Greaves In memory of Mrs Grace Alviena Poznaks Dr Lynne Cook Sharon Green and Shirley Lewis (Kit) Mr James Preece Ms Dorothy Coombs Marcel Skjald Mrs Shirley Lindoy JP Mrs Tara Preston Mrs Philippa Croker Miss Flo Greene John Lockeridge Mr Geoffrey Priest Mr & Mrs Alan and Ms Patricia Griffen Mrs Luise de Longueville Ms Judy Radecki Roslyn Currie Mrs Sheila Loudon Ms Dimity N Raftos
54 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Ms Margarita Rasink Mrs Pamela Salmon Mrs Cynthia Southwell Mr Michael Weekes Mrs Jean Redman Mr John Sanders Ms Josie La Spina Mr & Mrs Geoff and Ann Weller Mr & Mrs Don and Mr & Mrs Ken and Judy Sargeant Mrs Liese-Lore Spring Ms Gail West Shirley Rees Ms Coral Saunders Ms Maureen A Stephenson Mrs Marvin West Mrs Julie Reid Mrs Betty Saxby Mr Rick Stevens Mrs Judith Wheeldon AM Mrs Marjorie Renshaw Patricia and Dieter Schafer Dr Jeanne-Claude Strong Mr Paul White Dr Judith Reynolds Mrs Wilhelmina H Schippers Mr & Mrs Peter and Dr Yvonne White Trevor Rice Dr John Schubert AO and Diane Sturrock Mr Robert Wickenden Ms Nerida Richards Mrs Prue Schubert Mrs Barbara Taylor Ms Faye Margaret Williams Ms Julia Richardson Barry M Schulz AFC Ms Margaret Taylor Ms Barbara Williams Mr & Mrs Don and Charles Seaberg Diana R Terp In memory of the Late Avis Robertson Ms Peggy De Seriere Ms Bonnie Thomas Kathrin Nell A Wilshire Ms Kathy Rockwell In memory of Mr Dennis Seward Ms Audrey Timbs Mrs S Wilson-Pearson Ms Tanya Roddan Miss Thelma Shepherd Mr Leonard Towers Miss Vivienne Windsor Mr & Mrs John and Ms Shona Sherwin The Hon Philip A Twigg QC Ms Roberta Withnall Barbara Rogan Anthony Abrahams and Mrs Maya Van Rol Mr & Mrs Karl and Mr & Mrs Christopher Wendy Sillence Mr & Mrs Ian and Sharon Vette Madeline Wolf and Nancye Rolfe Jane & Barry Simpson Mr & Mrs Byron and Diane Wright Mr Bruce Rosenberg Mrs J Sindel-Hand Helen Vlahos Mrs Dorothea Wright Dr Edna Ross Kathryn Ann Smith Ms Julie Wahlberg Ms Janet Wright Mr George Saliba – Miss Angela Sofoulis Mrs Verna Wakefield Ms Kerry Wynne Living with MS Ms Betty Song Mr William Alan Walker Mrs Elizabeth Yates
Give to others, eat good food…
And walk every day. These are the tips Vicki Graham gives for those seeking longevity. About to celebrate her 90th birthday, she knows. Vicki sailed from Malta in 1950. Her first job in Australia was in a Melbourne hospital, which was the start of her love of “anything medical”. Combined with her enormous compassion, this led to her multiple volunteer roles over 40 years. She worked as a manager in St George Hospital and volunteered in carer roles.
Vicki first heard of Garvan’s seminars when she was volunteering on a community service committee about 14 years ago, and she booked a group to attend. Following that, Vicki became a ‘Garvan Ambassador’ and has brought many more groups to attend tours, open days and seminars. “People love Garvan. We asked a researcher to come to the war widows meeting and Dr David Croucher (from the Cancer Division) came to speak. Everyone found it fascinating.”
Vicki’s beloved husband, Kevin, came along with her to events and they decided together to give gifts to Garvan in both of their Wills. Kevin’s bequest has since come to Garvan, and Vicki now spreads the word to others. “I think flowers are a waste. Flowers should go to the living, not the dead. When Kevin passed, we asked people to give donations to Garvan instead.”
Vicki’s daughter Kerin is supportive of Vicki’s wishes, has visited Garvan and is a donor herself. “I know that my daughter will know exactly what I wanted, when I ‘fall off the branch,’ as Kevin used to say.” She adds, “Family comes first, of course. You need to look after them. But if you have enough to go further you should talk with your family about leaving a gift Partner for the Future Vicki Graham in your Will. To me, medical research is of so much value.” with her daughter Kerin Wood. Garvan community Our heartfelt appreciation goes to all those who supported Garvan in 2017.
LIFE GOVERNORS John and Deborah McMurtrie 2017 SUPPORTERS Mr Alexander Berlee Mr Len Ainsworth The late Mrs Mabs Melville 1666 Foundation Mr Ronan Bernard Allind Pty Ltd Mr & Mrs David and A L Zambo Pty Ltd Better Hearing Tasmania Amadeus Energy Limited Renata Money Mrs Gladys Abbott Mrs Barbara Beynon The late Mr John Armati NAB Foundation The Abey-Perera Mr Robert Billett The Australian Lions Childhood National Australia Bank Family Foundation BioTools Cancer Research Foundation The NELUNE Foundation Ablosix Pty Ltd Dr Allison Black ASX Group Dr Graham O’Neill Accenture Mr Andrew Black ASX Thomson Reuters The late Mr K Packer AC AccorHotels Australia Mr William Blackshaw Charity Foundation Mrs Roslyn Packer AC Mrs Lenore Adamson Mrs Kaye Blaiklock Australian Cancer The Paramor Family Mr Len Ainsworth Ms Valeska Bloch Research Foundation Paul Ainsworth Family Ake Ake Fund Mrs Beverley Bloomfield Mr David Baffsky AO and Foundation A I Topper & Co BNP Paribas Mrs Helen Baffsky Petersen Family Foundation Antoinette Albert Ms Patricia Bone The Bill and Patricia The Petre Foundation Mr Richard Aldridge Borambil Philanthropic Trust Ritchie Foundation R T Hall Trust Ms Paula Aleixo Border Ovarian Cancer The CLEARbridge Foundation Ridley Corporation Ltd Mr & Mrs J D and Awareness Group Inc Mr Charles P Curran AC Mrs Margaret Rose AM E J Alexander Mr Stephen Borland Mr & Mrs Geoff and Rosemary Pryor Foundation Dr Lyn Allen Mr & Mrs Gordon and Dawn Dixon The Ross Trust Mr Murray Allen Lorraine Bourke Mr & Mrs Peter and Mr John Roth and Ms Mrs Jane Allen Mrs Lorraine Bourke Val Duncan Jillian Segal AM Ambleside Trading Mr Peter Bower E J Whitten Foundation Roth Charitable Foundation Emeritus Professor Boyer Family The late Mr Alan Elder Alan and Lynne Rydge Derek Anderson AM Mr Graham Bradley AM and Mrs Janice Gibson and Ernest Scrimshaw Foundation Mr Neil Anderson Mrs Charlene Bradley Heine Family Foundation Mr & Mrs Tim and Sally Sims Mr Murray Andrews Mr & Mrs Peter and The late Lady (Mary) St Vincent’s Curran Foundation The Ann Helene Toakley Lurline Bradley Fairfax AC OBE The late Mr Robert Charitable Endowment Braemac Pty Ltd Ferris Family Foundation Strauss MBE Mr & Mrs V and E Annuk Ms Christine Bray Mr Laurence S Freedman AM Mr Laurie Sutton Mr John Anstice Mr & Mrs Robert Elizabeth Fyffe Suttons Motors Management Mr Geoffrey Applegate and June Brice The late James Patrick Dr John Tonkin The Arcus Foundation Drs Ruth and Des Bright Garvan and Family Tour de Cure Mrs Betty Armbruster The Broinowski Foundation The late Miss Felicia D Garvan Vodafone Foundation Australia Australasian Tunnelling Mr Leo Browne George Patterson Pty Ltd Mr & Mrs John and Society (Sydney Chapter) Mr Norman Brunsdon AM Mrs Agnes Ginges and the Megan Wade Australian Federal Police Mrs Kate Buchanan late Mr Berel Ginges Wade Civil Engineering Pty Ltd The Australian Ladies Mrs Zella Buckham The late Mr Cyril Golding The Walker Family Foundation Variety Association Inc Mrs Elizabeth Bunyan Mr William A Gruy Witchery Australian Lions Childhood Mr & Mrs Christopher In memory of Patricia Westfield Holdings Ltd Cancer Research Foundation and Joanna Burke Helen Guest Reverend Peter Baines Mr John Burke The late Mr Philip Hemstritch VOLUNTEERS Mr & Mrs Harrie and Mrs Rebecca Burn Mr & Mrs Paul and Mrs Janet Barkell Noreen Baker Mr Donald Bursill Judy Hennessy Mrs Barbara E Buttery Ms Sandra Baker Burwood RSL Club Ltd HIH Insurance Mr Graham Curtis Mr & Mrs J and S Barbeau Mr Ian Cairns The late Mr Pieter Ms Justine Flynn Martin Barge Mr & Mrs Alan and H Huveneers Mrs Patricia Foertsch Ms Robyn Barlow Cecilia Calder John Brown Cook Foundation Ms Claire Greaves Mrs Margaret Barnes The Calligeros Family The Johnny Kahlbetzer Family Mr Howard Houliston Mr & Mrs David and Mr Bruce Cameron The late Mrs Virginia Mrs Lynne Jones Robyn Barnett Mr Ian Cameron Kahlbetzer Mrs Pascale Kirk Mr Paul Barnett Mr Chris Campanaris Mr Trevor Kennedy AM and Mr Rory O’Carroll Dr Denis Barrett Professor Joseph Campbell Mrs Christina Kennedy Mr Theo Oo Dr & Mrs Ian and Pam Barrett Campbell Scholtens Mr & Mrs Ralph and Mrs Joan O’Regan The Honourable Pty Limited Lorraine Keyes Ms Rosanna Russo Reginald Barrett Canberra Grammar School King & Wood Mallesons Mrs Kalgi Patel Mr & Mrs Kelvin and Mr Michael Cannon- The Kinghorn Foundation Mrs Mairi Payten Melony Barrie Brookes Snr and Mrs The Lady Proud Foundation Mr Richard Ruhle Mr Sean Barry Helen Cannon-Brookes Lions Club International Ms Stella Stefanidis Mrs Christine Bateman Canterbury Girls’ High Foundation Mrs Deirdre Stuart Mr David Bath 1963 Year Group Love Your Sister Mr Bill Upton Baxter Charitable Foundation Carla Zampatti Foundation Mr & Mrs Roy and Mr Erwin Weastell Mr Hubert Bell Mrs Deborah Ann Carlsund Cindy Manassen Ms Denise Yates Mr Geoffrey and Marie Bennett Carlton Family Foundation
56 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Carpy Pty Ltd Mr & Mrs Eddy and Mrs Norma Gall Mr Barry Hart Ms Susan Casali Gwen DeMarco Galston District Garden Club Ms Cheryl Hatch Mr E Cassimatis Mr Jonathan Denovan Ms Karen Gannon Mr Ian Hatch Mrs Maureen Cavill Mrs Helen Devenish-Meares Ivan Gantar Mrs Jill Hawker Centenary Foundation – Dr Thomas Diep Mr Justin H Gardener The Hayes Family Judith Hodge Fund Mrs Virginia Digges George and Robyn Garis Mr & Mrs Bill and S & Y Center Mr & Mrs Geoff and Mr Ian Garling Alison Hayward CHAMP Private Equity Dawn Dixon Mrs Janice Garvan Mrs Mary Hearn Mr Anthony Champman Mr & Mrs Leonard Garvan Financial Planning Heliflite Pty Limited and Mrs Ann Walker and Patricia Dixon Georges River Lioness Club Mr & Mrs Herbert Ms Maureen Chan Dr Joseph Quang Do Mr & Mrs Peter Gibbins and Patricia Hely Mr Robert Chapman Don Clark Tractors Pty Ltd Mrs Beverley Gibson The late Mr Philip Hemstritch Ms Lynda Chapman Dr Lucy Donovan Mrs Jane Gibson Mr & Mrs Paul and Mr & Mrs Stephen and Mr & Mrs Russell Mrs Janice Gibson and Ernest Judy Hennessy Mary Charlesworth and Anne Dorey Heine Family Foundation Henry Pollack Foundation Mr & Mrs W Chiu Mr Paul Downard Ms Marcelle Gibson Herro Trading Chun Academy Ms Natalie Suzanne Dray Mr R J Gilchrist Corporation Pty Ltd Mr Philip Marcus Clark AM Mrs Anthea Drescher Mr Denis Gilmour Mrs Margaret Heuer Ms Anne Clarke Duchen Family Foundation Mrs Agnes Ginges and the Mr Clifford Hicks Mr Robert J Clarke Dunstan Family Foundation late Mr Berel Ginges Ms Michelle Hilton The CLEARbridge Foundation Mr Stephen Dupond Mr John Glennie Hindmarsh Investments Pty Ltd Mr Denis Cleary AM Mr Ken Dwyer Cherie Glick and family for Joe Mr & Mrs Lionel and Mrs Elaine Clode Edify Private Wealth P/L Ms Leone Glynn Gwen Hirning Ms Kylie Coates Mrs Elizabeth Efinger Mrs Barbara Goldman Mr John G Hocking Mr Anthony Cole Mrs Sharon Egan Mrs Judith Gollan J Holden Family Foundation Coles Group Mr Brian Eggert Mrs Colleen Goodwin Mrs Lea Holm Miss Lucy Collingridge Ms Jacqueline Elliott Mr & Mrs William and Jessica B Hore Mrs Angela Compton Dr Robert Ellis Jacqueline Goodyear Dr Ronald Houghton DFC FRAS Mr Frank Constable Eltham East Primary School Gordon and Christine Mr & Mrs Tony and Ms Bridget Conybeare Essential Energy Windeyer Foundation Christine Housden Mr Thomas Coogan Estée Lauder Companies Mr Frank Goudge Mr & Mrs Greg and Mr & Mrs G Cook Mr Peter Evans Mr & Mrs Alan and Gabriella Howard The Cook Society (UK) Mr Paul Eveleigh Lesley Goulburn Dr & Mrs David and Mr Louis Cordony Eventide Homes NSW The Goulburn Family Sarah Howell The Corio Foundation Every Trade Building Services Ms Megan Gourlay Mrs Sue Howieson Mr Bruce Corlett Mrs Gwenyth Falson In memory of Patricia Mrs Lynette A Hudson Ms Malia Corry Mr & Mrs CW and JA Farmer Helen Guest Mr Robert Humphris OAM Mrs Edda Cosmo Miss Jane Farrell Emmanuel G. Harris for Mrs Pat Huntley Dr & Mrs Brett and Miss Julia Farrell G P Harris Foundation Mr Edwin Hurley Susan Courtenay Miss Vicky Farrell Mr Neville Grace William Hurley Craig Mostyn & Co Pty Ltd Richard Fenning and Graf Family Foundation Mr Pieter H Huveneers Mr & Mrs Justin and Wendy Volckman Ms Lorette Graham Mr John Hyde Ali Crawford Mrs Helen Ferguson Ms Jennifer Gray IAG Croall Foundation Ms Diane Ferrier Mr Malcolm Gray The Ian Potter Foundation Mr John Crooke Firehold Pty Ltd Sharon Green and Idle Acres Foundation Croydon Park Chapter Mr Humphrey Firkins Marcel Skjald Inchcape No. 40 O.E.S Mrs Nona Fisher Dr Leslie Green and Ms Susan Inglis Cue Clothing Co Mrs Wendy Fisher Mrs Ginny Green International Wing Mr Warwick M Cumming Mr Robert Flint Ms Christina Grygiel Inveruglas Pty Ltd Mr & Mrs Robert and Mr & Mrs Douglas Mr John P Gunning Mrs Ignazia Ippolito Beryl Cusick and Lynne Flynn Mr Bradley Hair Mr Graham Irving Ms Emma Dale Mr Lachlan Ford and Mr Allan N Hall AM Mrs Jill Irving Mr David Daley Ms Natalie Dean Mr Roger Hallaran The Hon Justice Mr Warren Daley Mr Grant Forster Hallidays Heating & Cooling Peter M Jacobson Miss Ann Dang Ms Jane Forster Mrs Karen Hamilton Dr Cary James Danielle Fashion and Mr Glenn Eggleton Peter and Patricia Hannaford Mr Craig Jamieson Mrs Lois Dann Mr Christian Forsterling Mr John L Hannan Mr & Mrs Paul and Dao Chemist Mr John Forsyth and Mrs Ann Hanson Wendy Jeans Mr Rodney F Darke Ms Ann Verschuer Miss Helen Hardman Mr Garry Jensen Mrs Sara R Darling Mrs Barbara Foster Mr Neville Harpham Mr Erik Jensen David Lesnie Foundation Francis Maxwell Hooper Mrs Ena Harries John Brown Cook Foundation David Z Burger Foundation – Australian Philanthropic Mrs Betsy Harrington Charitable Trust Ms Joan Davis Services Foundation Mrs Angelique Harris Reverend William Johns Mr & Mrs Don and Mr Ross Franklin Mr Donald Harris AM Ms Gwendolene Jones Christine Davison Mr John Fuller Mr & Mrs Don and Joseph Palmer Foundation Mr & Mrs Haydn and Sue Daw Mr Sunny Fung Margaret Harris Mrs Suzanne Julian De Lambert Largesse Elizabeth Fyffe Mr Loftus Harris AM Kenneth and Myrtle Topliss Foundation Ms Debra Gabriel and Mrs Jane Harris Charitable Foundation Ms Anne De Salis Mr Nick Gagliano Mr & Mrs Paul and Gail Harris Dr Colleen Kane Mrs P De Sauty Mr & Mrs Eric and Tonia Gale Mr Peter Harris Kevin and Louise Keady
GARVAN.ORG.AU 57 2017 SUPPORTERS cont. Lions Club of Mordialloc- Mr & Mrs David and Paul Ainsworth Family Mr John Keam Mentone Renata Money Foundation Mr & Mrs Patrick Lions Club of Munmorah Mr R E Moore Ms Hilary Penfold and Beryl Keane Summerland Point Mr John Morgan The Penn Foundation Professor Geoffrey Lions Club of Samford Ms Alexandra Morley Ms Judy Pennefather Kellerman AO Lions Club of Speed and Mr Craig Owen Perpetual Foundation - The Warwick and Carole Kendall Lions Club of Stirling Mrs Catherine Moroney Felicia Garvan Endowment John & Connie Kennedy Lions Club of Western Sydney Dr Genevieve Mortiss Perpetual Foundation Mr Steve Kennedy Lions Club of Whitsunday Mr Joe Moschella – Hamilton Charitable Mr Trevor Kennedy AM and Lions Clubs International Mr Brendon Moss Gift Account Mrs Christina Kennedy Foundation Mr Darren Moss Perpetual Foundation – The Mrs Lee Kenny Mr Anthony Little Mrs Glennis Moss Kibblewhite Endowment Mrs Wendy Kessler Mr John B Little Mostyn Family Foundation Perpetual Foundation – Mr Matthew Keswick Lesley and Tony Little Mr Tony Mouatt The Stombuco Family Mr & Mrs Ralph and Ms Justine Lloyd Mount Beauty Medical Centre Legacy Endowment Lorraine Keyes Mrs Mary Lourantaki Mrs Catherine Moxham Mr & Mrs Peter and Mr Mark Keynes Mr Michael Lowe Mrs Beverley Munday Annette Perry Dr Virendra Khanna Lowenden Foundation Mr Jeff Munday Petersen Family Foundation Dr Judith Killen Dr M M Luka Mr Tim Munro Mrs Alison Peterson Mrs Brenda Killin Ms Helen Lynch AM The Murphy Family Mr Russell Peterson Mr Geoffrey H Kimpton Ms Meryll Macarthur Mr Geoffrey Murphy The Petre Foundation The Kinghorn Foundation Dr Lee MacCormick Edwards Mr Peter Murphy Dr Sang G Phan King & Wood Mallesons Charitable Foundation Mr Ronald Nathans Ms Elizabeth Phillips Mr W Bruce Kirkpatrick OAM Ms Alison MacDougall National Australia Bank Mrs Almut Piatti and Mrs Juliet Kirkpatrick Ms Maureen Macfarlan Ms Nicole Naylor Pioneer Consulting Dr George Kirsh Mr Duncan Macintyre Nelumbo Trust Fund Pittwater Memorial Women’s Mr Todd Kissick Dr Magda Macourt The NELUNE Foundation Bowling Club Ms Lili Koch Macquarie Group Foundation Miss Shirley Neville Pittwater Village Mr Samuel Kushe Mr & Mrs J Maffey New Start Paphos Pty Ltd Mrs Suzannah Plowman Mr Brad Kyaw Mr & Mrs James Mrs Marion Newman Mr V John Plummer Mr Theodore Kyriacos and Janice Main Ms Anna Nguy Mr Carlo Poli Mrs Heather Lacey Robert Maloney Quang Nguyen Van Mr Peter Polson The Lady Proud Foundation Mr & Mrs Roy and Trinh Mih Nhut Mr Tony Ponti Mr Graeme Lambert Cindy Manassen Ms Hilary Nicholson Lady Primrose C Potter AC CMRI Mrs Beatrice Lang Mrs Joan Mangan Miss Zoe Nicholson Miss Carol Pryor Mr Steven Lang Mrs Susan Maple-Brown AM Nick & Caroline Minogue Ms Michele Pursche Mrs Elizabeth Langley Maple-Brown Family Foundation Qantas People Services Mrs Judy Langton Foundation Nicol Foundation Giving Back Committee Mr Ian Lansdown Mrs Sandra Marder Mr Robert Nixon Mrs Trish Quach Mrs Caroline Laws Mr Alfredo D Marrocco Mr Leigh Norman Mr David Quane Mrs Thi Thuy Ngan Le In loving memory of Mr Leonard Norris – in memory In loving memory Mr & Mrs Michael Domenico Marrocco of Mrs Margaret Allen of Kelda Quinn and Wendy Leahy Mary Henzell Wayne and Gretina Norton Radford College Mr Tony Leahy Investments Pty Ltd Norton Rose Fulbright Mr Roy Randall Ms Helen Lee Dr Thomas Mautner Mr Simon Oaten Ms Margarita Rasink Dr & Mrs Steven and Mrs Patricia McAlary Ms Jackie O’Brien Mr Brian Rathborne Catherine Lee MCA Private Investment Trust Mrs Margaret O’Brien Mrs Jean Redman The Legends Legacy Christine and Denis McConnell Mr Michael O’Dea KCSG AM Mr Stephen R W Reed Lemoar Nominees Pty Ltd Mr Graham McConnochie and Mrs Marianne O’Dea Mr & Mrs David and Mary Reid Mr John Lennox Mrs Monique McCorry Mr David O’Hara Mr Peter Reid Les Hiboux Pty Ltd Linda McGovern Ms Lysia O’Keefe Mr Bernard Remond Mr & Mrs John and Chris Leslie Dr Shaun McGrath Ms Janette Mary O’Neil Mrs Catherine Remond Mrs Alison Lever Ms Anita McKenzie Dr Geoffrey S Oldfield ResMed Ltd In memory of Mrs Grace Mrs Margaret McKerihan Mrs Lorna Oliff Ms Jane Rich Shirley (Kit) Lewis Dr Elaine McKinnon Ms Annette L Olle Mr Angus Richards The Lewis Foundation Mrs Shirley McLennan Miss Betty Olsen Ridley Corporation Ltd Lidia Perin Foundation John and Deborah McMurtrie Dr Graham O’Neill Ms Annabel Ritchie The Lindsay & Heather McLeod Family Foundation Mr Ronan O’Reilly Mrs Judy Roach and Payne Medical Research Miss Susan McMahon Mrs & Mr Beverley Estate of L I Roach Charitable Foundation Mr & Mrs Warren J and and Frank Osborn Mr Graeme Roache Dr P R Lindberg Pamela A McNamara Mr Tim Osborn Mr Christopher Roberts Lions Club of Capalaba Ms Anne McNiven Mrs Maria O’Sullivan Mr Stuart Robertson Lions Club of Cudal Edward Thomas Paul Meagher Pacific Equity Partners Mr Nicholas Robison Cargo & District Ms Tash Meinertzhagen Ms Stavroula Papadatos Mr Peter Rockey Lions Club of Diamond Valley Ms Libby Menadue The Paramor Family In memory of Roger Rose Lions Club of Elizabeth Playford Mr Peter Merrigan Mr Colin Parker The Rodney & Judith Lions Club of Geelong Corio Bay Haydn and Dorothy Miller Mr Craig Parker O’Neil Foundation Lions Club of Heathmont Mr John Miller Mr & Mrs GE and JE Pasfield Mr & Mrs John and Lions Club of Lugarno Dr Rodney Mitchell Paspaley Barbara Rogan Lions Club of Millbridge Ms Hazel Paton Mrs Gloria Rolfe
58 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Mrs Margaret Rose AM Mr & Mrs John and Westpac Group Mr Lindsay Leeser Mr & Mrs Stuart and Irina Rose Margaret te Strake Kim and Peter Whitfield Mr Dan Morahan Rosemary Pryor Foundation Mr Reginald H Streifler Mr William Whiting Mr Tom Morgan Mr Bruce Rosenberg Mrs Annabel Struthers Craig and Suzanne Whitworth Mr Chris Nasser Mr David Ross Mr John Stuckey Ms Rini Wijaya-Cooke Miss Lucia Robson Mr Edward Ross Mrs Grace Sugden Willba Endowment Mr James Wilkinson Rotary Club of Bendigo Mrs Di Sutton Mrs Maureen Williams-Barrow Rotary Club of Dural Mr Laurie Sutton Mr Ian Willington ESTATES Rotary Club of Kings Cross Mr Jim Sweeny Willowie Nominees Pty Ltd Estate of the late John Ball Mr John Roth and Ms Mr Nick Tait OBE and In memory of the late Estate of the late Joan Barry Jillian Segal AM Mrs Mimi Tait Kathrin Nell A Wilshire Estate of the late Mr David E Routley Mr Harry Tamvakeras In memory of Norma Andrew Bennie Mr Peter Rowe Mr Peter Tan Wilson and Tom Wood Estate of the late Peter Ms Alison Rowland Mr David Taranto Mrs Jon M Wilson and Pamela Binnie RT Hall Trust Mrs Valerie Taranto Mr Raymond Wilson Estate of the late Peter Boulken Mrs Wendy Russell Mr Roger Taylor Dr Bruce Wilson Estate of the late Mrs Margaret Ryan Mrs Rosemary Taylor Miss Vivienne Windsor Margaret Briggs Alan and Lynne Rydge Ms Victoria Taylor Mr R Witchard Estate of the late Kenneth Sachdev Foundation Than & Co. Solicitors Wood Family Foundation and Betty Brown Ms Bridget Sack Mr Robert B Thomas AM Mr & Mrs Jack and Leah Woolf Estate of the late Jens Mrs Karen Samociuk Mr & Mrs John and Mrs Penelope Wright Christophersen Mrs Barbara R Sanders Joan Thomas Michael and Shirley Wrigley Estate of the late Peter Clarke Mr John Sansom Ms Mara-Jean Tilley Mr Robert Yeates Estate of the late Alan Crook Say Family Foundation Mrs Joy Timbrell Mr J M Yorke Estate of the late David and Eva Scheinberg Mrs Carolyn Todd Mr & Mrs Ralph and Marie Dalkeith Mr Steve Schenko Mr Paul Traeger Robyn Youie Estate of the late Helen Dovnik Ms Patricia Scheveling Cuong Quoc Tran Zen Imports Pty Ltd Estate of the late Dr John Schlederer Dr Xuyen Thi Tran Florrie Fernihough Mr & Mrs Conrad and Mrs & Mr Julia and COMMUNITY Estate of the late Juliet Schmidt Simon Tregoning FUNDRAISERS Wallis Fletcher Scleroderma Association Mr Walter Turnbull Belmadar Bandits Estate of the late of NSW Tusa Pty Ltd/Webb Family Mrs Jane Carroll Lynette Forbes Bobbie Scotland Twin Towns Services Ms Megan Castor Estate of the late Sylvia Francis Mr Laurie W Seaman Community Foundation Limited Ms Vanessa Dupond Estate of the late Barbara Giblin Mrs Judith Shanahan Mrs A Udy Georgina Hayes Estate of the late Ms Diana Shang Mr Peter Unwin Ms Jane-Maree Hurley Mackersey Gibson ShareGift Australia Mrs Maya Van Rol Ilena’s Greatest Shave Estate of the late Fay Harris Ms Diane Sharland Mrs Margaret Vere Mr Ryan Kolster Estate of the late Alan Hellicar Mrs Doreen Sheehy Vodafone Foundation Australia Mr Daniel Kranz Estate of the late Ms Mollie Shelley Mr & Mrs John and Let’s Find a Cure! Gabriel Keleny Mr William Sherrard Megan Wade Marie Ramos Photography Estate of the late Mrs Edith Shipway Mr Peter Wade & Baby Imprints Henryk Kitaszewski Skipper-Jacobs Charitable Trust Miss Rebecca L Wade Mr Alfredo D Marrocco Estate of the late Mr Joseph Skrzynski AO Wade Civil Engineering Pty Ltd Ms Alexandra Morley Nathalie Kulakowski and Ms Roslyn Horin Mrs Caroline Walder and Mr Craig Owen Estate of the late Denise Lang Ms Pamela Sleeman Mr James Waley Ms Penelope Murphy Estate of the late Dr & Mrs Raymond In memory of John Walker Mr Michael Murphy Adell Littlejohn and Robyn Sleet Mrs G M S Walker Pathfinders Estate of the late Mrs Jennifer M Smith Mrs Nancy Walker Dr Sang G Phan Mabs Melville Mr Roger Smith Mr Ian Wall Pretty in Pink Fundraising Estate of the late Mr Stephen Smith Mr & Mrs Quentin and Townsville Helen Morgan Mr & Mrs John and Lorna Wallace Sam Quin Estate of the late Carolyn Sneyd Ms Evelyn Walsh Chris Ryan Elizabeth Newton Mr & Mrs David and Mr Barry Walsh Miss Deb Schmitzer Estate of the late Clare O’Brien Audrey Solomons Mr & Mrs J B Walsh Ms Tracey Stevenson Estate of the late Shirley Power Dr Peter Southwell-Keely Mr Robert J Walsh Tee off for MOS’ golf day Estate of the late Ann Roche SP Health Mr John S Walton AM Mrs Susan Thorley Estate of the late Mrs E Spencer Mr & Mrs Sam and Ms Lauren Truefeldt Elizabeth Rudduck Mr Kevin Spencer Patricia Wang The Walkie Talkies – Estate of the late Mrs Robin Spencer Mr Peter Ward Girlfriends Doing It for the Reginald Ryan Mr & Mrs K J and F L Stanton Dr John R Warneford Garvan & Eating Disorders Estate of the late State Custodians Mr Robert Warren Mr Glenn Wilkinson Helen Southern Ms Martha Stauble Ms Margaret Weaver Estate of the late Helen Short Dr Andreas Stephens Mr Neville Webb YOUNG GARVAN Estate of the late Ms Leslie Stern Ms Alexandra Wedutenko Ms Shalini Ananda Reginald Stubbs Mrs Maureen Stevenson Mr Ken Wee Dr Elissa Deenick Estate of the late Nola Wagner Wendy Stewart Mr Michael Weekes Miss Georgina Dwyer Estate of the late W L Stoermer Dr Berthold Weitkamp Mr Gordon Eckel Richard Warren Mrs Gillian Storey Mr Andrew Wells Ms Georgie Harrowell Estate of the late Mr Howard Welsh Mr Alex Henson Adrian Wilden
GARVAN.ORG.AU 59 Peer-reviewed funding
From the CSO Garvan researchers had an outstanding year in 2017 with a 29.4% success rate To support their own salaries and for NHMRC grants and fellowships, their research work, it is essential for compared to the national average our researchers to receive fellowship of 19.3%. Researchers spend many and grant funding from the National months putting their applications Health and Medical Research Council together and it’s always a tough time (NHMRC) and other funding bodies. when the outcomes are announced.
These grants are peer-reviewed Therefore, the fundraising efforts and if successful demonstrate how and contributions of Garvan’s donors highly the applications are regarded are absolutely necessary to support by our peers in the medical research all of our researchers’ life‑changing sector. However, competition for the work. Private funds enable our available money is extremely high. researchers to continue their important Due to funding constraints, not all the research until they are able to Dr Marie Dziadek, Chief Scientific Officer excellent applications are successful. acquire competitive grant funding.
GARVAN-LED GRANTS 2017
Principal Amount Years of Funding Body Type of grant Co-Investigators Project Title Investigator Funded funding Allergy and Research Grant Marcia Mike Rogers A new approach to overcome a childhood $30,000 1 Immunology Munoz Tri Phan autoinflammatory disease Foundation of Australasia Avner Pancreatic Innovation Shane Grey Marina Pajic Harnessing a novel ‘tunable’ immune check $99,536 1 Cancer Foundation Ltd Grant point to enhance the immunogenecity of anti-pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma Accelerator Paul Timpson Thomas Cox, Anthony Gill Seeing is believing: mapping and targeting $809,676 3 Grant (Royal North Shore Hospital) the extracellular matrix in pancreatic cancer Marina Pajic, Jeff Evans (Beatson Institute, Scotland) Benjamin Parker (University of Sydney), Angus Grey (University of Auckland, NZ), Jennifer Morton (Beatson Institute, Scotland) Lorraine Chantrill Cancer Australia Priority- Mark Pinese Comprehensively surveying the complex $65,000 2 driven Young genetic determinants of sarcoma risk Investigator Project Grant Priority-driven Marina Pajic Paul Timpson, Anthony Dual-targeting of Src and JAK/STAT3 $600,000 3 Standard Gill (Royal North Shore signalling as a novel personalised treatment Project Grant Hospital), Shane Grey, strategy for pancreatic cancer. Stephen Clarke (Royal North Shore Hospital), Jas Samra (Royal North Shore Hospital) Cancer Council NSW Project Grant David Chris Ormandy, Ido Amit Identifying molecular targets for $440,000 3 Gallego- (Weizmann Institute, Israel) immunotherapy using highly-parallel Ortega single-cell transcriptomics Project Grant Ruth Pidsley Susan Clark, Phillip Stricker A novel predictive epigenetic test to stratify $299,483 2 (St Vincent’s Hospital) men for prostate cancer focal therapy Cancer Institute Translational Lisa Horvath Philip Stricker (St Vincent’s Integrating research into clinical $3,750,000 5 NSW Research Hospital), Anthony Joshua practice in prostate cancer Program Grant (St Vincent’s Hospital), James Kench (Royal Prince Alfred Hospital), Louise Emmett (St Vincent’s Hospital), Susan Clark, Vanessa Hayes Commonwealth Public Health Philip Stricker Quoc Nguyen, Anthony APCRC NSW TRANSITIONAL FUNDING: $1,500,000 1.5 Department of and Chronic Joshua (St Vincent’s Science and clinical innovation in Health and Ageing Disease Grant Hospital), James Kench prostate cancer research Program (Royal Prince Alfred Hospital), Louise Emmett (St Vincent’s Hospital), Susan Clark, Vanessa Hayes
60 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS GARVAN-LED GRANTS 2017 continued
Principal Amount Years of Funding Body Type of grant Co-Investigators Project Title Investigator Funded funding Diabetes Australia General Grant Carsten Amanda Brandon Dual deletion of PKCepsilon and CerS6 in $60,000 1 Research Trust Schmitz- (University of Sydney) adipose tissue to protect insulin sensitivity Peiffer General Grant Trevor Biden Piero Marchetti, Novel roles for endoplasmic reticulum $60,000 1 (University of Pisa, Italy) stress in beta cell dysfunction Gastroenterological ‘Near-Miss’ Maija Jane Dahlstrom (Canberra Determine the role of MCC silencing in the $50,000 1 Society of Australia NHMRC Kohonen- Hospital), Stephen Clarke promotion of colorectal cancer and how it project grant Corish (University of Sydney) can be targeted with anti-invasive therapy. Juvenile Diabetes Australian Type Shane Grey Kazu Kikuchi (Victor Chang Utilizing "Islet-Helper" T regulatory cells $1,500,000 3 Research Foundation 1 Diabetes Cardiac Research Institute), to regenerate damaged beta cells Clinical Dan Hesselson, Kylie Research Webster, Jonathan Network Sprent, Chris Goodnow, Innovation Simon Barry (University Award of Adelaide) National Breast Investigator Clare Susan Clark, Rodney Scott Novel epigenetic blood biomarker panel $602,414 3 Cancer Foundation Initiated Stirzaker (University of Newcastle), to stratify triple negative breast cancer Research Alexander Dobrovic (Olivia Scheme Newton John Cancer Research Institute), Vinod Ganju (Monash University), Alexander Swarbrick Investigator Alex Sandra O’Toole, Joseph Discovering new therapeutic strategies $716,450 3 Initiated Swarbrick Powell (University of for metastatic triple negative breast Research Queensland), Elgene Lim cancer at cellular resolution Scheme Mun Hui, Paul Timpson Investigator David Paul Timpson, "Priming” the immunosuppressive tumour $297,000 3 Initiated Herrmann Tatyana Chtanova microenvironment of breast cancer to boost Research immunotherapy and survival outcomes Scheme Investigator David Thomas Cox Targeting stiffness induced JNK activity as $214,000 2 Initiated Croucher a novel therapy in triple negative breast cancer Research Scheme National Health Project Grant David Thomas Cox Location, location, location: $625,005 3 and Medical Croucher Sub-cellular specific targeting of JNK Research Council as a novel therapy in breast cancer
Project Grant Susan Clark Clare Stirzaker A CTCF code for the 3D cancer $893,193 4 genome architecture Project Grant Paul Timpson Jennifer Morton (Beatson PARP and PI3K inhibition in pancreatic $750,005 3 Institute, Scotland), Yingxiao cancer: intravital insights and fine-tune Wang (University of priming using AKT and single/double- California San Diego, USA), strand DNA break biosensor mice Marina Pajic Project Grant David Alex Swarbrick, Walter Precision medicine for high-risk neuroblastoma $660,005 3 Croucher Kolch (University College Dublin, Ireland), Jamie Fletcher (Children’s Cancer Institute) Project Grant Susan Clark Fatima Valdés Mora H2A.Z acetylation: deregulation of enhancer $859,350 3 activity and 3D chromatin in prostate cancer
Project Grant Thomas Cox Paul Timpson Transient tissue priming via FAK inhibition $643,848 3 to impair pancreatic cancer progression and improve sensitivity to gemcitabine/Abraxane Project Grant Mike Rogers Anna Simon (Radboud Protein prenylation and inflammation: $715,755 3 University, The new insights into the pathophysiology and Netherlands), Elissa Deenick treatment of mevalonate kinase deficiency Project Grant Peter Andrew Zannettino Myeloma plasma cell dormancy - $834,428 3 Croucher (University of Adelaide), ‘eradicating the sleeping giant’ Tri Phan, Ido Amit (Weizmann Institute, Israel) Project Grant Tim Mercer Marcel Dinger, Leslie Diagnosis of inherited genetic disorders $690,820 3 Burnett, Jim Blackburn using DNA reference standards
GARVAN.ORG.AU 61 GARVAN-LED GRANTS 2017 continued
Principal Amount Years of Funding Body Type of grant Co-Investigators Project Title Investigator Funded funding National Health Project Grant Liz Caldon Endocrine therapy tolerance as $450,083 3 and Medical a cancer cell survival mechanism Research Council for late recurring breast cancer Project Grant Daniel Christ Jonathan Sprent, Cecile King Mechanisms of action of interleukin-2 superkines $725,585 3 Project Grant Joanne Reed Katherine Jackson Rogue B cell clones in patients $916,670 4 with autoimmune disease Project Grant Tri Phan Cindy Ma, Melanie The mechanism for combined immunodeficiency $648,371 3 Wong (The Children’s and autoimmunity due to STK4-deficiency Hospital at Westmead) and its broader application to human PIDs Project Grant Yanchuan Shi Herbert Herzog, Ross Laybutt Control of insulin secretion by $675,582 3 Y1 receptor signalling Project Grant Elissa Cindy Ma Regulation of immune responses $704,428 3 Deenick by STAT1 and STAT3 Project Grant Ross Laybutt New molecular mechanisms of islet $673,259 4 protection against diabetes Project Grants Cindy Ma Elissa Deenick Molecular and cellular control of human Th9 $550,888 3 cell differentiation in health and disease Project Grant Herbert Distinct populations of Arc NPY neurons control $843,340 4 Herzog different aspects of energy homeostasis Project Grant Jonathan Immunogenicity of dendritic cell nanovesicles $636,978 3 Sprent Development Tim Mercer David Thomas, Synthetic DNA standards for $870,005 2 Grant Marcel Dinger clinical genome sequencing Parkinson’s NSW Research Grant Antony Boris Guennewig (University Blood Biomarkers to diagnose PD $49,400 1 Cooper of Sydney), Anbupalam and track disease progression Thalmuthu (UNSW Sydney) Research Grant Daniel Yuxi Zhang Blocking PD progression $35,000 1 Hesselson St Vincent’s Clinic Research Grant David Paul Timpson, A novel biosensor to predict prostate $30,000 1 Foundation Herrmann Anthony Joshua cancer spread - implications for anti-invasive drug discovery Research Grant Anthony Megan Crumbaker, Vanessa DNA repair defects as a predictor of $50,000 1 Joshua Hayes, Louise Emmett response to novel treatments in advanced (St Vincent’s Hospital) castrate-refractory prostate cancer Research Grant Neil Watkins Richard Gallagher (St Vincent’s The genomic basis of locoregional metastasis $30,000 1 Hospital), Venessa Chin, Peter in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma Earls (St Vincent’s Hospital) Research Grant Jerry Dorit Samocha-Bonet, Personalised medicine in prediabetes - towards $100,000 1 Greenfield Mark Danta (St Vincent’s preventing diabetes in individuals at risk Hospital), Richard Day (St Vincent’s Hospital) Research Grant Bonnie Lai Kathy Samaras Dietary intervention to improve the $25,000 1 gut microbiome and body composition for better physical health in newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes mellitus. National Breast 2018 Endowed Elgene Lim The breast cancer therapeutics and $3,000,000 10 Cancer Foundation Chairs Program biomarker discovery program
FELLOWSHIPS AND SCHOLARSHIPS 2017
Amount Years of Funding Body Type of award Awardee Project Title Funded funding Australian & NZ Bone Gap Fellowship Dana Bliuc Predictors of mortality risk following osteoporotic fractures $50,000 1 & Mineral Society Cancer Institute NSW Career Mandy A clinical genomics program focused on early onset cancers $600,000 3 Development Ballinger Fellowship Career Thomas Cox Transient tissue ‘priming’ as a therapeutic modality to impair pancreatic $341,667 3 Development cancer progression and improve sensitivity to adjuvant therapies Fellowship Early Career Ira Deveson Representing the cancer genome with synthetic DNA spike-in controls $448,200 3 Fellowship Early Career David Pin-pointing pro-invasive plasticity of breast cancer in $600,000 3 Fellowship Hermann vivo by targeting the Src/EMT signalling axis Early Career Heloisa Expanding the repertoire of therapies targeting $600,000 3 Fellowship Helena Milioli sex steroid receptors in breast cancer Early Career Max Nobis Intravital imaging using AKT and DNA damage biosensor mice for drug $600,000 3 Fellowships target validation to improve PARP and PI3K inhibition in pancreatic cancer
62 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS FELLOWSHIPS AND SCHOLARSHIPS 2017 continued
Amount Years of Funding Body Type of award Awardee Project Title Funded funding Medical Research Next Jacqueline Improving outcomes in osteoporosis and bone health $343,683 5 Future Fund Generation Center Clinical Researchers Program National Health Senior Paul Timpson Biosensor imaging in preclinical pancreatic cancer targeting: $640,210 5 and Medical Research taking cancer targeting to new dimensions. Research Council Fellowship Senior Shane Grey Pancreatic islet inflammation and its role in diabetes and islet transplantation $707,370 5 Research Fellowship Early Career James Wang Developing mouse models of diffuse large B cell $412,952 4 Fellowship lymphoma for therapeutic discovery Susan G Komen Career Catalyst Thomas Cox Co-targeting tissue stiffness to improve the efficacy of breast cancer therapies $449,464 3 for the Cure Research Grant Sydney Catalyst PhD and ‘Top Morghan TOP UP AWARD: Seeing is Believing: Mapping and targeting $39,400 2 -up’ Research Lucas the extracellular matrix in pancreatic cancer Scholar Award
COLLABORATIVE GRANTS LED BY OTHER INSTITUTIONS 2017
Type of Administering Garvan Funding Body Co-Investigators Project Title grant Institution Investigator/s Australian Discovery University of Clare Stirzaker Matt Trau (University of DNA exhibits new self- Research Council Project Grant Queensland Queensland), Darren Korbie assembled structures due to (University of Queensland) clustered DNA methylation Discovery UNSW Sydney Eva Maria Novoa Schraga Schwartz (Weizmann Charting the human epitranscriptome Project Grant Pardo and Institute, Israel), Christopher Martin Smith Mason (Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, USA) Bill & Melinda Global Health Stanford Katherine Scott Boyd (Stanford University) To assist with analysis of RNAseq Gates Accelerator University, USA Jackson data set from sorted plasmablasts Foundation Platform Nearest University of Christopher David Baker (University of Washington) Development of nearest neighbour Neighbour Washington Goodnow immunogens for HIV1 vaccines HIV Vaccine Project National Health Project Grant University of Adelaide Peter Croucher Andrew Zannettino (University of Bone marrow macrophages: and Medical Adelaide), Peter Psaltis (SAHMRI), ‘Resident Evil’ in the establishment Research Jacqueline Noll (University of Adelaide) and progression of multiple myeloma Council Project Grant University of Adelaide Elgene Lim and Wayne Tilley (University of Adelaide), Pushing AR towards better outcomes Anthony Joshua Theresa Hickey (University of Adelaide), in breast and prostate cancers Luke Selth (University of Adelaide), Jason Carroll (Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute), Wilbert Zwart (Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam), Christopher Sweeney (Dana-Farber Institute USA) Project Grant University of Adelaide Tuan Nguyen Stan Gronthos (University of Deregulation of DNA Adelaide), Melissa Davis (WEHI) hydroxymethylases Tet1/ Tet2 compromises skeletal integrity during ageing and bone disease Project Grant University of Sydney Shane Grey Phil O’Connell (University of Sydney), Identifying donor and recipient gene David Harris (University of Sydney), pathways in renal transplant fibrosis Guoping Zheng (University of Sydney), Shounan Yi (Westmead Institute) Project Grant University of Alexander Michael Samuel (University How does ROCK ‘education’ South Australia Swarbrick of South Australia) of fibroblasts drive neoplastic progression in the breast? Development University of Elgene Lim Shudong Wang (University of South Development of a novel and Grant South Australia Australia), Robert Milne (University highly selective CDK4/6 of South Australia), Wayne Tilley inhibitor for treating cancer (University of Adelaide) Movember– Collaborative University of Adelaide Elgene Lim and Wayne Tilley (University of Adelaide), Transforming endocrine therapy National Grant Susan Clark Gail Risbridger (Monash University,) for breast and prostate cancer Breast Cancer Jason Carroll (Cancer Research Foundation UK Cambridge Institute), Theresa Hickey (University of Adelaide), Luke Selth (University of Adelaide)
GARVAN.ORG.AU 63 Financial highlights Statement of financial position as at 31 December 2017.
Profit and loss statement Revenue 2017 2016 Expenditure on 2017 2016 $’000 $’000 research activities $’000 $’000
Research grants Staff costs 52,597 49,505
NHMRC research grants 14,795 15,737 Sequencing consumables 9,728 7,724
Other peer-reviewed research grants 6,839 10,734 Research 14,199 12,875
Other grants 4,726 2,583 Depreciation and amortisation 11,502 11,356
Commercial partnerships 533 603 Administration 11,116 7,139
26,893 29,657 Fundraising* 3,260 2,669
Building and scientific 6,826 7,045 NHMRC and UNSW Infrastructure grants
Finance costs 1,452 988 NHMRC IRIISS grant 2,924 2,953 110,680 99,301 UNSW contribution 499 668 Total comprehensive (9,481) 10,065 3,423 3,621 income for the year
NSW government support 16,256 18,295
*Fundraising costs exclude employment expenses. Donation and bequests 27,024 33,985
Other income
Sequencing and facility charges 20,961 19,276
Investment/interest income 6,306 4,234
Software licensing revenue 672 0
Net gain on disposal of property, (209) 38 plant and equipment
Net gain on interest swap derivative 0 202 not qualifying as hedges
Share of gain of associates accounted (127) 57 for using the equity method
27,603 23,807
Total revenue 101,199 109,365
64 2017: A YEAR OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS Balance sheet Assets 2017 2016 Liabilities 2017 2016 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
Current assets Current liabilities
Cash and cash equivalents 36,132 57,817 Trade and other payables 8,986 11,539
Trade and other receivables 13,787 4,841 Borrowings 2,224 15,357
Financial assets at fair value 39,962 36,813 Derivative financial instruments 0 245 through profit and loss
Sequencing Consumables 3,765 3,724 Provisions 5,685 5,742
Biological assets 518 443 Other 70 69
94,164 103,638 16,965 32,952
Non-current assets Non-current liabilities
Investments accounted for 272 397 Borrowings 12,478 2,254 using the equity method
Property, plant and equipment 86,692 92,904 Provisions 1,132 944
Intangibles & others 968 427 Other 1,043 1,257
87,932 93,728 14,653 4,455
Total assets 182,096 197,366 Total liabilities 31,618 37,407
Net assets 150,478 159,958
Funds
Reserves 111,020 104,046
Retained surpluses 39,458 55,912
Total funds 150,478 159,958
The Statement of Financial Position provided above, together The statutory financial report (from which the summary with the attached Income Statement, have been extracted financial information has been extracted) has been from the audited general purpose financial statements of prepared in accordance with the requirements of Garvan Institute of Medical Research and its controlled the Corporations Act 2001, Australian Charities entities. The summary financial information does not include and Non-for-profits Commission Act 2012 and all the information and notes normally included in a statutory Regulations 2013, Australian Accounting Standards financial report. The audited general purpose financial report and other authoritative pronouncements of the can be obtained upon request to the Chief Operating Officer. Australian Accounting Standards Board. GARVAN INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL RESEARCH 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst NSW, 2010 Australia T + 61 2 9295 8100 F + 61 2 9295 8101 garvan.org.au
Garvan Institute of Medical Research ABN: 62 330 391 937 Garvan Research Foundation ABN: 91 042 722 738
Photography Peter Secheny Additional photography Anne-Marie Cook, John Gollings, Karen Mork, Paul McMillan, Meredith Ross, Skyview Aerial
Design Sherlock Creative
Published April 2018 Copies of the Annual Report can be obtained by contacting: Garvan Research Foundation [email protected] +61 2 9295 8110
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