Project: Optimizing cancer care delivery through maximally informative molecular diagnostics
SEAMO is celebrating a major milestone with the announcement that Dr. Neil Renwick has been selected by the Innovation Fund Provincial Oversight Committee to receive a 2025 Innovation Fund Award in the Cancer category. This marks the first time a SEAMO project has been recognized at the provincial level, and it highlights the depth of impact our clinician scientists bring to patient care and discovery.
Dr. Renwick’s project focuses on improving the diagnosis and monitoring of neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs), a group of cancers that often present late because their symptoms are non-specific. His team has discovered a microRNA that is abundant and highly specific to neuroendocrine cells and tumors. This molecular marker has the potential to give pathologists a more accurate diagnostic tool and to support the development of a rapid, sensitive, and inexpensive blood test for patients.
“This work really began with the goal of helping patients with a cancer that is often diagnosed too late,” says Dr. Renwick. “During our research, we identified a microRNA that appears to be present in most neuroendocrine cells and NEN tissues and is more abundant in plasma from individuals with NENs. It brings us a step closer to earlier diagnosis and better access to effective treatment.”
For Dr. Renwick, the award carries personal and professional significance.
“I was a little shocked to receive this award. Once it sank in, I thought about my parents and my wife and how lucky I am to have supportive people in my life. Professionally, I am thrilled because this recognition shines a light on a disease that was described as neglected only a decade ago. It also feels like a meaningful way to thank SEAMO for supporting me with a New Clinician Scientist Award.”
His project’s success reflects the strength of his team and collaborators across Queen’s and the country. Dr. Renwick speaks proudly about the people behind the work, including Research Associate Dr. Xiaojing Yang, biomedical data analyst Dr. Kathrin Tyryshkin, and the many trainees who contributed to the lab’s discoveries. He also credits colleagues in Medicine, Oncology, Surgery, and partner institutions across Canada for helping advance a shared goal of improving patient outcomes. “This type of research really takes a village,” he says.
Dr. Lisa Tannock, SEAMO’s CEO, says this recognition is an exciting moment for the organization. “This is the first time a SEAMO project has received a Provincial Innovation Fund Award, and we could not be more proud of Dr. Renwick and his team. Their work is opening the door to earlier diagnosis and better care for patients across the province. It is a remarkable achievement and a reflection of the innovation and dedication that define SEAMO’s clinician scientists.”
The progress coming from Dr. Renwick’s lab is the result of teamwork, shared purpose, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of people facing complex cancers. SEAMO is proud to support this type of work and the collaborators that make it possible.