Cancer devils and angels: from Taz to humans?

In some species cancer can be ‘caught’, like a cold, and with devastating consequences. This is the world of the Tasmanian devil, a rare and unique marsupial species, which is dying out due to the infectious cancer, Devil Facial Tumour Disease. A bite from one infected individual is enough to pass on the disease, which has a mortality rate of 100%. Infectious cancers also exist in some shellfish and dogs, but it hasn’t yet emerged in our own species. However, by studying how these cancers emerge and spread we can gain insight into both human cancer and develop effective vaccine strategies.

Southampton is a world leading centre for research into cancer of the oesophagus (gullet). With live footage from real operations, Tim will take you behind the scenes of the operating theatre when the fight against cancer requires focus, precision and exceptional skills. Following the cancer after it's removal form the body, Tim will describe how by understanding the relationship between the cancer and its host we are beginning to develop the cancer treatments of the future.

Cancer Research UK Senior Research Nurse Jac leads a team who see and care for patients participating in early trials for new cancer treatments. Together with her colleagues Kerry and Carly, she will share some insights into the group's crucial role.