Fundamental Research

The search for the vulnerabilities of cancer cells

In order to find the vulnerabilities of cancer cells and treat cancer, we need to understand the biology of cancer. How do cancer cells differ from healthy cells, and how do they interact with their environment, or with therapies?

The Netherlands Cancer Institute has designated fundamental research as one of its five overarching research themes. Together, our researchers form a highly international, vibrant, and curiosity-driven community, working in close collaboration with the clinicians from our hospital towards one shared goal: tackling the huge societal challenge we call cancer.

How are important processes in the cell regulated?

How do cancer cells differ from normal cells?

How does a cell deal with damage and interventions and how can we exploit this knowledge to optimize treatment?

How do various cell types in the body affect the development of cancer and its response to treatment?

Fundamental research literally lays the foundation on which cancer research can build. It is high risk, and high gain. As a cancer institute and as society as a whole, we have to take these risks.

Thijn Brummelkamp Theme leader Fundamental Research

In this video, researchers from the Netherlands Cancer Institute take you along in their quest to understand the fundamental workings of our biology. Many important new therapies are the results of fundamental research, in which you don't know what you'll find before you start. The Netherlands Cancer Institute conducts fundamental research because the opportunities and possibilities are endless.