Anayra Goncalves is a PhD student in the Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology at Western University. She is conducting BCC-funded breast cancer research under the mentorship of Dr. Armen Parsyan and Dr. Alison Allan.
Could you share your motivation/personal connection to breast cancer research?
In 1993, my aunt passed away from intestinal cancer and at the time, effective treatments were limited, especially for advanced cases like hers. Witnessing my family’s grief and the impact of her loss even years after her passing was what first motivated me to pursue a career in cancer research. During my undergraduate studies, I joined the Oncology Academic League, an outreach program where students delivered lectures to underserved communities in my home country, Brazil, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. These lectures focused on the importance of regular self-examinations and early diagnosis, which we know can save lives. Being part of this initiative deepened my commitment to breast cancer research. These experiences have shaped my journey and continue to drive my passion for contributing to advancements in this field.
What specific areas of breast cancer research are you currently focusing on, and why are they important?
My research focuses identifying new biomarkers associated with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). TNBC is one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat subtypes of breast cancer and, unlike other subtypes, lacks targeted therapies and biomarkers to guide treatment decisions. I am using sophisticated “omics” technologies called spatial transcriptomics and spatial proteomics, which allow us to generate a map of how and where genes and proteins are expressed within a breast tumor. I am also using a specialized gene editing technique called CRISPR-Cas9, which allows us to test how specific genes influence breast cancer progression and/or response to therapy. Specifically, I’m studying the molecular changes in the tumour microenvironment (the ecosystem of cells and molecules that surrounds a tumour) that drive TNBC’s development, metastatic spread to the axillary lymph nodes, and resistance to treatment (in particular, neoadjuvant treatment, which takes place before surgery to shrink the tumour). By understanding these changes, we hope to uncover new biomarkers that can help develop more effective and personalized treatments and even prevent the cancer from spreading, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for TNBC patients.
How do you see the future of breast cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment evolving through research?
Thanks to advancements in research and technology, I see a future where this disease is not only more treatable but also preventable. Research is paving the way for earlier detection, more effective treatments, improved survival, and better quality of life for patients. Every breakthrough brings us closer to a world where breast cancer is no longer a life-threatening disease.
What advice do you have for young individuals interested in pursuing a career in breast cancer research?
My advice would be to stay curious and passionate. Breast cancer research is a field that requires collaboration across disciplines, so you must be open to learning and exploring diverse areas of study. It is also important to remember why you are doing this work. Research can and will be challenging, but the rewards of contributing to advancements in this field are immeasurable.
What message would you like to share with someone who has just been diagnosed with breast cancer?
There is hope and there is a community of people that are fighting everyday for better treatments and for improving the outcomes of patients like you. You are stronger than you think, and there are people walking this journey right beside you. You are not alone!
Nitara’s video message:
