Research in Australia and volunteers

[BAS]

This is mainly intended for Australian residents - I have lymphoma and work at Grifith University in Queensland. My colleagues in the science area (genetics) are researching lymphoma. If you are interested in giving a sample of blood to aid their research (no cost) then it would be fantastic. I understand they have around 55 samples but need 100 or more. Read below and follow up if interested. Also note that you can be located anywhere in Australia and they will assist with the collection side. I did clear this with Robert who felt it would be okay to post this request.

The Griffith Lymphoma Project – Volunteers Needed
Griffith University is located in Queensland Australia and is an innovative research and teaching institution. Griffith University has an established Genomics Research Centre, which focuses upon the investigation of the genetic basis of disease. Research is focused on common chronic human disorders that have a significant genetic component such as migraine, high blood pressure, cancer, multiple sclerosis and osteoporosis. Scientists within the Centre have expertise in gene mapping and the characterisation of gene dysfunction and have the ability to translate this information to both diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes.
In 2004 the Genomics Research Centre established the Griffith University Lymphoma Project. Following fund-raising for this Project a PhD scholar, Michael Green, was selected to receive a scholarship dedicated to investigating genetic issues associated with lymphoma. Over the past 18 months of active research the Griffith Lymphoma Project has progressed at a rate hampered only by the restricted number of patient samples that the researchers have access to. However, collecting further blood samples is vital to investigating this disease as new techniques have been developed that allow researchers to detect changes in genes that may have a role in Lymphoma predisposition, and several candidate gene have been found which the research team wish to test in a large population of non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma sufferers. The Griffith research team has formed promising collaborations with Gold Coast hospitals and the Queensland Institute of Medical Research, which will lead to research into possible therapeutic targets in this disease.
To aid the Griffith University Genomics Research Centre in their research, the research team is asking for help from anyone in Australia who has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The team requires only a single tube of blood, from which they will extract DNA and investigate predisposition markers over the entire genome. These donations can either be made locally (Gold Coast), by calling the GRC Clinic (07 5552 9771) and organizing a suitable time, or for anyone outside the Gold Coast but located in Australia by calling the clinic Genomics Research Centre and requesting that the appropriate form be sent out so that participants can have a sample taken by their doctor or at a local Pathology laboratory. There will be no cost to the person providing the sample, and only a small and confidential questionnaire to fill in. This is an excellent opportunity for people affected by non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma to participant in research dedicated to gaining a better understanding of the genetic origin or behaviour of this cancer.

If you require any additional information please contact the GRC clinic (07 5552 9771) or the primary researcher, Michael Green (07 5552 9179).
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BAS
dx April 2004 fNHL, grade 2 of 3
6.5cm para-aortic mass, no bone marrow involvement. Remission following CHOP, Mabthera and extensive natural therapies. No conventional treatment since November 2004. Stem cell harvest January 2005.

[Robert]

Thanks, BAS.

I'll also mention this as an item in the upcoming February newsletter. We have many members in Australia.

~Robert
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Please see "My Personal History" by first logging in through the Members Section button at http://LymphomaSurvival.com and then scrolling down the page to SECTION 2.

[juanita]

Hi

Got all details yesterday and sent the bloods off today and
the information and signature for my part on helping your
organisation do what they want to do for this trial.

I am only too happy to do my part in order for someone
else not to endure this illness.

Many thanks for the promptness of all the paperwork

Rgds
Juanita Hill
Brisbane
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follicular lymph stage 3, grade 2 on diagnosis 15mths ago
radiation therapy aug06, chemo cvp completed July 07 maintenance rituxa started sept 07 going well

[BAS]

Juanita

Thanks for the post and I am glad you were able to help out the researchers. I know they are still seeking volunteers so every bit helps. I will try to let the group know if any results are released.
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BAS
dx April 2004 fNHL, grade 2 of 3
6.5cm para-aortic mass, no bone marrow involvement. Remission following CHOP, Mabthera and extensive natural therapies. No conventional treatment since November 2004. Stem cell harvest January 2005.

[hazel]

Bas,

We went and gave blood to the University on the 22 Feb. Hope it all goes well and they get the results they want.

Regards,
Hazel
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Hubby dx July 2005 Stage 1, Grade 4, nodes in neck, spleen(tennis ball size), groin and lungs, no treatment to date, practise natural stratagies as best we can.