Dr Jonathan Chee, a researcher at the National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases (NCARD), within the University of Western Australia and the Institute of Respiratory Health, has been awarded a Translation Fellowship from the Western Australian Department of Health. This fellowship, part of a $2 million initiative supporting translational research in WA, provides nearly $600,000 to support Dr Chee’s innovative research into new mesothelioma treatments.

Mesothelioma, a cancer affecting the protective lining of internal organs, remains a significant health concern in Western Australia, which has one of the highest per-capita rates globally due to historical asbestos mining and usage. Dr Chee’s research focuses on repurposing copper-binding drugs to improve treatment efficacy. These drugs aim to limit copper availability to tumour cells, boost immune responses against cancer and make tumours more susceptible to immunotherapy. As these drugs are already approved for other conditions, they present a cost-effective, low-toxicity, and accessible option for clinical use.

This project builds upon the pioneering work of A/Prof Orazio Vittorio from the University of New South Wales, highlighting the importance of collaboration in advancing cancer research. Over the next three years, Dr Chee will test these therapies in combination with existing treatments such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy. His goal is to translate laboratory discoveries into clinical settings, ultimately improving outcomes for mesothelioma patients who currently have limited treatment options.

The WA Future Health Research and Innovation Fund’s support for Dr Chee’s fellowship demonstrates the Government’s commitment to advancing medical research with direct relevance to Western Australian communities. By fostering collaborative, translational research, NCARD continues to drive innovation and hope for individuals affected by asbestos-related illnesses.