Calvin Bailey MBE MP Visits PCR-Funded Researchers at Imperial College London

Earlier this week, Calvin Bailey MBE MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Prostate Cancer, visited Imperial College London to meet researchers funded by Prostate Cancer Research (PCR). The visit coincided with International Men’s Day and the launch of the UK Government’s first Men’s Health Strategy, a fitting occasion to highlight the urgent need for innovation in prostate cancer detection and treatment. 

The visit was hosted by Dr Claire Fletcher, a leading molecular oncology researcher at Imperial College London. Dr Fletcher and her team are pioneering work to improve early detection and develop new treatments for advanced prostate cancer. During the visit, Professor Charlotte Bevan also showcased cutting-edge research into biomarker tests for early diagnosis, which could transform how prostate cancer is detected and treated in the future. 

Dr Fletcher discussed two major PCR-funded projects: 

• How Fat Fuels Prostate Cancer – This research investigates how fat surrounding the prostate influences cancer growth and aggressiveness. By understanding the molecular signals exchanged between fat cells and prostate cancer cells, the team aims to identify new drug targets and biomarkers for aggressive disease. This work is particularly important given the links between obesity and poorer prostate cancer outcomes.

• Prostate Cancer’s Achilles’ Heel – This project focuses on exploiting weaknesses in advanced prostate cancer cells’ ability to repair DNA damage. Dr Fletcher’s team has discovered that certain microRNAs can cause lethal DNA damage in cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. The goal is to develop this discovery into a new class of treatments that could improve survival and reduce side effects for men with advanced disease.

Speaking after the visit, Calvin Bailey MBE MP said:
“It was a privilege to see first-hand the groundbreaking research funded by Prostate Cancer Research by Dr Fletcher and her inspiring team. These projects have the potential to save lives and reduce inequalities in prostate cancer care. As Chair of the APPG on Prostate Cancer, I am committed to supporting efforts that bring us closer to earlier diagnosis and better treatments for all men.”  

Dr Fletcher added:
“Our research is driven by the urgent need for new ways to detect and treat prostate cancer. Support from PCR enables us to explore bold ideas that could make a real difference for patients.”  

Following the event, Mr Bailey also mentioned this week’s visit to Imperial College London during a debate in the House of Commons to mark International Men’s Day.  

For more information on the APPG on Prostate Cancer, which PCR jointly shares the secretariat for, please visit appgprostatecancer.org.uk