Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) was a class of marker with "exceptional specificity" that could be applied to most cancer types. Explorer grants support research ideas that have a good chance of making a "revolutionary change to how New Zealanders' health is managed". Dr Sean Coffey, of the Dunedin School of Medicine, and Dr Xiaolin Cui, of the university's Christchurch campus have also secured Explorer Grants, each worth $150,000. If successful, the method could transform our methods of assessing heart disease. Dr Cui's research will investigate using a new generation of stem cells to help treat cardiovascular disease and its complications, including heart attacks.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 31, 2019 16:18 UTC