Prize for ’cancer’ theory of autoimmunity

Professor Chris Goodnow has claimed the prestigious GlaxoSmithKline Award for Research Excellence for his pioneering work on autoimmune diseases. The prize includes $80,000 research funding. The funding will allow Professor Goodnow from The John Curtin School of Medical Research to test a controversial theory, that autoimmune disorders are a form of benign cancer. The research also has the potential to lead to more effective treatments and preventions for the millions who have or are at risk of contracting these diseases globally. "It's a high risk and high returns approach - testing a theory for autoimmune disease that's somewhat controversial. Some people really love it, but some people really hate it. That's a good sign; no one finds it boring," Professor Goodnow said.