Clinical Research Program

ABSTRACT: CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH PROGRAM Recognizing the fundamental nature of clinical research at UNC, and that common vulnerabilities may be found across many cancers, CR has further invested in the bench-to-bedside continuum. We have become even more integrated around the themes of tissue-based research, novel therapeutics and technologies with a pivot towards investigator intiated trials (IITs). CR, rated “Outstanding” at the last competitive renewal, has broad clinical and research expertise across all cancer types and key correlative strengths in imaging, statistical design, biomarker development, immuno-oncology, and tissue-based research. CR themes include: 1) Develop and evaluate novel therapies through early phase and investigator-initiated clinical trials; 2) Conduct tissue-based state-of-the-art ‘omics research to improve cancer treatments; 3) Develop new technologies for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Highlights of CR work and future plans include innovative IITs leveraging UNC research, an investment and track record of success in cellular immunotherapy trials, translating genomics efforts into therapeutic clinical trials, and incorporating biomarker development, novel imaging, and technologies into our trials. It is led by three dynamic trialists and physician-scientists, Drs. Dees, Milowsky, and Yeh. Each bring a complementary skill set to the program: Early Phase trials (Dees), genomics and novel drug trials (Milowsky), and translational collaborative research (Yeh). CR focuses on catchment area diseases and on training the next generation of clinical scientists. CR members are involved in multiple trials targeting cancers of particular relevance to the catchment area, the state of North Carolina. The CR Program consists of 60 members who are associated with 7 basic science and 10 clinical departments at UNC-Chapel Hill and affiliated institutions. During the last funding period, members published 1260 cancer- related articles, 34% were inter-programmatic and 18% were intra-programmatic (45% collaborative). In 2019, program members held grants totaling $18.7M (direct cost) in cancer-relevant extramural funding, including $5.2M (direct costs) from the NCI and $4.9M other peer-reviewed funding.