Ovarian Cancer Research
Pioneering early detection for the "silent killer" through biomarker discovery and innovative prevention strategies
Our Ovarian Cancer Program
The Canary Foundation was founded after Don Listwin's mother, Grace, died from late-stage ovarian cancer that was initially misdiagnosed. This personal tragedy drives our commitment to developing early detection methods for ovarian cancer, often called the "silent killer" because symptoms typically appear only in advanced stages.
Our ovarian cancer research began in 2002 with biomarker work for Dr. Nicole Urban at the Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center. Since then, we've made significant advances including the validation of the HE4 biomarker in 2008 and the discovery of gene fusions in 2011.
HE4 Biomarker Validation
In 2008, we validated the HE4 biomarker for ovarian cancer, providing a crucial tool for early detection and monitoring treatment response.
BRCA Pre-Cancer Atlas
Developing comprehensive molecular profiles of pre-cancerous changes in BRCA mutation carriers to identify the earliest signs of ovarian cancer development.
Fallopian Tube Research
Studying fallopian tube precursor lesions as many ovarian cancers actually originate in the fallopian tubes, opening new avenues for prevention.
Prevention Initiatives
Collaborating with BRCA Foundation on prevention initiatives and advocating for prophylactic fallopian tube removal during non-gynecologic procedures.
Research Milestones
First Biomarker Work
Funded Dr. Nicole Urban's research at Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center
HE4 Validation
Validated HE4 biomarker improving early detection capabilities
Gene Fusion Discovery
Discovered gene fusion advancing understanding of tumor biology
BRCA Partnership
Launched prevention initiative with BRCA Foundation
Current Research Focus
CA-125 Enhancement
Improving CA-125 testing accuracy through combination with other biomarkers and developing point-of-care ultrasound tools for biomarker confirmation.
High-Risk Population Studies
Focused research on BRCA mutation carriers and women with family history, developing personalized screening protocols for high-risk individuals.
Surgical Prevention Advocacy
Working to overcome administrative barriers to opportunistic salpingectomy (fallopian tube removal) during other procedures to reduce ovarian cancer risk.
Honor Grace Listwin's Memory
Support ovarian cancer research to ensure no family experiences the loss the Listwin family endured.