| Citation | Richard Houlston is distinguished for his contributions to the understanding of the genetics of cancer susceptibility and the application of that knowledge to clinical practice. He has led highly successful gene discovery studies of colorectal and lung cancer, primary brain tumours and haematological malignancies. He has been at the forefront of work establishing the polygenic basis of cancer susceptibility in general and its underlying biological basis. His work on the identification of genetic susceptibility to renal and smooth muscle tumours provided evidence of pseudo-hypoxic drive in the development of cancer. Importantly his work has led to changes in the management of individuals at risk of cancer who can benefit from targeted screening and interventions. |