Tzu Chi Foundation joins BC Cancer Foundation in unlocking the mysteries of cancer

Vancouver, BC, Canada | The Buddhist Compassionate Relief Tzu Chi Foundation of Canada has purchased a state-of-the-art gene sequencing machine for the Genome Sequence Centre in Vancouver -- the flagship laboratory for the BC Cancer Foundation and BC Cancer Agency. A cheque for $243,000 was presented at a special ceremony at the centre today.

The 3700 Gene Sequencer is a crucial piece of equipment required in the quest to help map the genetic structure of DNA. Understanding the building blocks of DNA is critical to understanding, diagnosing, treating and preventing cancer. Researchers are participating in the Human Genome Project -- a global effort to decode all 100,000 human genes. The Genome Sequence Centre is headed by Nobel Laureate Dr. Michael Smith, (Chemistry, 1993) and is providing unprecedented advances for the future of cancer research worldwide.

The gene sequencer is able to quickly process 96 DNA samples at one time and the Genome Sequence Centre is the first laboratory in Canada to own one. Researchers would not be able to do the kind of work they are doing without it.

"The donation comes from the hearts of our members," said Gary Ho, board chairman of the Tzu Chi Foundation." We are privileged to be partners with the BC Cancer Foundation and the dedicated scientists at the Genome Sequence Centre to help unlock the secrets of the universe."

In thanking the Tzu Chi Foundation for their friendship and partnership, BC Cancer Foundation board chair Jane Hungerford called the donation "a wonderful gift that will help fund a wonderful vision-to provide our children and grandchildren a world without the fear of cancer."

The Buddhist Compassionate Relief Tzu Chi Foundation of Canada is a volunteer organization dedicated to caring for people. There are 6,000 members in Vancouver alone.