Claire M Perks

Claire M Perks is an Associate Professor in Tumour Cell Biology at the University of Bristol, where she leads the Cancer Endocrinology research group within the Bristol Medical School. Based at Southmead Hospital's Learning and Research Building, her work facilitates collaborations with clinical colleagues specializing in breast, urological, and colorectal cancers. Her research focuses on the intersection of metabolic conditions and cancer development, particularly examining how obesity and diabetes influence cancer risk and progression.

Dr. Perks completed her B.Sc.Hons and Ph.D. at the University of Bristol in 1995, with her doctoral research focusing on 'The Role of the IGF axis in the Ovary' in relation to fertility. After her Ph.D., she continued these studies as a Postdoctoral Research Scientist at The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, before joining the University of Bristol as a Research Associate in the Department of Surgery.

Her research interests center on insulin-like growth factors as fundamental regulators of growth and metabolism that are increasingly associated with cancers linked to Western diet and lifestyle. The Cancer Endocrinology Group performs mechanistic studies using cell lines to understand molecular processes underpinning tumor development phenotypes including proliferation, survival, migration, and invasion. They also play an integral role in clinical studies through analysis of human tissue and blood samples. With the increasing prevalence of obesity, her work examines how co-morbid conditions like diabetes affect cancer presentation and treatment response, aiming to identify better treatment approaches and potential prevention strategies.

Recent publications reveal a strong focus on the connections between neurological conditions and cancer, particularly examining apolipoprotein E's dual role in Alzheimer's Disease and cancer development, as well as the role of insulin-like growth factors in neural stem cell niches and glioblastoma pathogenesis. Her work demonstrates interdisciplinary connections between endocrinology, oncology, and neuroscience, with particular emphasis on molecular mechanisms that could lead to improved therapeutic interventions.

As a Co-Investigator on the BRC2 - Diet and Physical Activity Theme project (running from December 2022 to November 2027), she contributes to research examining the relationship between lifestyle factors and disease. Her work has been referenced by multiple news outlets and social media platforms, indicating its broader impact beyond academic circles.

The Cancer Endocrinology Group at Southmead Hospital works closely with clinical colleagues, leveraging their hospital-based location to facilitate translational research from bench to bedside. Their research aims not only to improve cancer treatment but also to highlight the negative impact of obesity and type 2 diabetes on cancer development and treatment response, potentially empowering patients to make positive lifestyle changes for better health outcomes.