Professor Gerard Evan

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Department of Biochemistry
University of Cambridge
Cambridge

Investigating cancer genes

Professor Gerard Evan is one of the world’s foremost experts in oncogenes – the genes that drive the development of cancer. Over the years he has played a vital role in identifying some of these genes, and revealing how they fuel the disease.

In particular, Professor Evan works on a gene called Myc, which helps tumours grow, spread and develop a blood supply. Many scientists think that drugs targeting Myc could be a good way to treat cancer. But Myc has many different roles within healthy cells, as well as in cancer cells.

Professor Evan and his team are working to understand exactly how Myc works within the body, both in healthy tissue and in several types of cancer, including lung and pancreatic cancers. They are also testing drugs that can block Myc, and searching for other genes that work with it, which could also be good targets for future cancer treatments.

Scientists across the globe have recognised Professor Evan’s contribution to cancer research. He is a member of the European Molecular Biology Organisation, the UK Academy of Medical Sciences, and the Royal Society – one of the most prestigious scientific organisations in the world.

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