Noted Oncologist Dr. William Cance Named Interim Director of UA Cancer Center

The appointment was made by UA Senior Vice President for Health Sciences Michael D. Dake, MD.

“Dr. Cance has made enormous strides in Phoenix and across the state to establish a culture of collaboration to advance cancer care and treatment,” Dr. Dake said. “His keen focus on collaboration will enhance programs, advance basic science, reduce disparities and elevate the UA Cancer Center’s reputation for excellence in service to our state.”Continue reading

Science Foundation Arizona positions its future with ASU

Effective July 1, Science Foundation Arizona (SFAz), the nation’s largest, leading-edge, public-private partnership that connects the research capabilities in Arizona’s three universities with the needs of Arizona’s business and industry is positioning its future at Arizona State University. It will remain an independent 501c3 located at SkySong and will be known as SFAz@ASU.Continue reading

ASU researcher starts clinical study to improve diagnostic tests for lung infections

Just breathe.  If detecting lung infections were as simple as taking a breath, patients with cystic fibrosis would be able to seek treatment sooner.

People with cystic fibrosis who get bacterial infections in their lungs often experience a decline in their lung health — which ultimately shortens their life spans. However, if the infections are caught and treated early enough, these same patients can live longer, healthier lives.Continue reading

Report Highlights Best Practices in Bioscience Economic Development

Every two years, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) publishes a biennial BIO Economic Development Best Practices Report that  catalogs state and regional economic development initiatives.  The best practice examples contained within this report highlight the critical facets that foster high-performing industry and the long-term success it has maintained. The report reaffirms that successful industry development initiatives are built upon the following four key building blocks for company creation and expansion:Continue reading

Master of the immune system: Myxoma virus could solve long-standing medical conundrums

 Virus: friend or foe?  Viruses are likely the most abundant biological entities on Earth – they inhabit every ecosystem, and thus have shaped the evolution of most species. But we have been conditioned to believe that viruses only pose a threat to life. Until recently, viruses were only thought to be infectious agents that exist and replicate within the cells of a host organism, often causing life-threatening illnesses. Although this is true and much of modern healthcare is aimed at preventing infection at the hands of these pathogens, viruses can also be used to vanquish other diseases without any adverse health effects to the host.Continue reading