Dr Howe Mao is a general surgeon specialising in hepatopancreaticobiliary (HPB) surgery. He is currently a research fellow and PhD candidate at the University of Auckland, with a focused interest in the genetics of pancreatic cancer.
Late-stage diagnosis, disease recurrence, and resistance to systemic treatments make pancreatic cancer one of the most aggressive cancers. Addressing these complex issues requires a multifaceted approach including identifying suitable patients for complex surgery, development of targeted therapy, improving screening and diagnostic accuracy. At the heart of these efforts lies a deeper understanding of the tumour's genetic and biological characteristics.
Although significant progress has been made internationally in defining the molecular profile of pancreatic cancer, New Zealand’s diverse ethnic composition presents a unique opportunity to generate new insights. Moreover, Māori and Pacific Peoples suffer disproportionately poorer outcomes from pancreatic cancer. This project provides a critical opportunity to address these inequities and contribute to meaningful advancements in the field.
Through partnership with the Te Ira Kāwai Auckland Regional Biobank, the stewardship of biobanked samples can be ensured, enabling sustained contributions to pancreatic cancer research for years to come. Through Māori and Pacific consultation and partnership, we will substantially expand current Aotearoa-led models for ethical and safe practices in biobanking and genetic research.
Dr Mao is collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of surgeons and scientists, including HPB surgeons Dr Sanket Srinivasa and Professor Jonathan Koea, Professor Cristin Print from the Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, Research Fellow Dr Anassuya Ramachandran, and Head of Oncology Dr Ben Lawrence.
Dr Mao says "our partnership with the Gut Cancer Foundation is vital. Their generous support has been instrumental to initiating this research and we are deeply grateful for Gut Cancer Foundation for enabling us to address pancreatic cancer and the associated health inequities affecting Māori and Pacific Peoples."