Developmental Research Program

PROJECT SUMMARY (Developmental Research Program) The specific objectives of the Developmental Research Program are to: 1. Publicize the availability of funds for pilot translational research studies in the field of Epigenetic Therapy for cancers. 2. Identify through this mechanism innovative projects with significant potential for developing and improving Epigenetic Therapies for cancers. 3. Encourage collaborations of projects with scientists within the SPORE and outside the SPORE, specifically the Van Andel Institute-Stand Up To Cancer Epigenetics Dream Team (VAI-SU2C). 4. Enhance the communication between the SPORE leaders and VAI-SU2C Investigators to encourage the development of innovative epigenetics therapies for cancer. 5. Ensure program flexibility so that developmental projects that show promise can be: 1) funded for a second year; 2) encouraged to apply for peer-reviewed funding (i.e. R01); or 3) expanded to become full SPORE projects. The structure and processes of this program are modeled after a long-standing and successful Developmental Research Program within the MDACC Leukemia SPORE, and on the success of the VAI-SU2C Epigenetics Dream Team in soliciting, reviewing, awarding and monitoring developmental research project proposals. To achieve our aims, we will establish 1) specific criteria for selection and funding through a peer review mechanism, and 2) mechanisms for close monitoring of, and collaboration between the SPORE leaders and program awardees to enhance the quality of the translational research goals.