Inova Fairfax Hospital and George Mason University Partner to Fight Breast Cancer

$750,000 Research Study Aimed at Developing New Types of Screenings and Treatments for Breast Cancer

Falls Church, VA – (December 18, 2007) – Clinicians at Inova Fairfax Hospital Cancer Center and scientists at George Mason University’s Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine (CAPMM) are partnering to take a revolutionary step forward in breast cancer research.

The team will investigate if cancer stem cells — thought to be the driving force behind the development of cancer — are present in the earliest stages of precancerous tumors. This may be the first time living, precancerous human breast tissue has been used in this type of breast cancer research.

This research could lead to:

• new screenings and treatments for breast cancer
• treatment of breast cancer at the pre-invasive stage
• treatment of advanced metastatic disease
• significant changes in how oncologists treat breast cancer.

This research could identify which therapies can be used to destroy or even distinguish the very cell that would go on to cause invasive cancer, said CAPMM co-director Emanuel Petricoin III.

This two-year, $750,000 study is funded by the newly created Synergistic Idea Award offered through the U.S. Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program.

The highly competitive award is given to collaborators for a proposal that addresses a critical problem in breast cancer research, exemplifies innovative research, demonstrates synergy between partners, and has high potential to further breast cancer research or enhance the quality of life of breast cancer patients.

“Working with colleagues at Inova’s Cancer Center offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the advancement of public health both in our local area and beyond,” said Dr. Lance Liotta, CAPMM co-director of the project. “Combining their vast clinical experience with our cutting-edge research capabilities will lead to a new era in breast cancer research.”

Inova Health System is a not-for-profit health care system based in Northern Virginia that consists of hospitals and other health services, including emergency and urgent care centers, home care, nursing homes, mental health and blood donor services, and wellness classes. Governed by a voluntary board of community members, Inova’s mission is to improve the health of the diverse community it serves through excellence in patient care, education and research. Inova provides a healthy environment for its patients, families, visitors, staff and physicians by prohibiting tobacco use on its campuses.