Core C: Biostatistics and Informatics

ABSTRACT – BIOSTATISTICS AND BIOINFORMATICS CORE (CORE C) The Ovarian SPORE Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Core provides statistical and bioinformatic collaboration and data management support for each of the main SPORE projects, the Developmental Research Program (DRP) and Career Enhancement Program (CEP) projects, and the other Cores. As in Years 1-5, Core C members have continued in Years 6-10 to collaborate heavily with SPORE researchers to facilitate optimal study design, create analysis plans, and interpret results. In addition, Core members also improved the data infrastructure by consolidating the biospecimens, clinical and animal models databases into one comprehensive data management system. This migration has resulted in improved efficiencies for Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Core members as well as Animal Models Core members, Biospecimens and Patient Registry Core members, and study coordinator staff. This database system is utilized not only by Ovarian SPORE researchers, but also by institutional ovarian cancer researchers. It is a source of accurate, up-to-date information and has facilitated both intra- and inter-SPORE collaborations. Members also developed an improved investigator request portal and tracking database for SPORE biospecimen and core resource requests. In this renewal, the Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Core will be very active in preparing the analytical plan for each Project. The proposed projects are expected to span a wide range of approaches and analyses. The Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Core will continue to assure each SPORE investigator access to statistical and bioinformatic expertise that includes collaborative development of study designs and analysis plans, state-of- the-art data analysis and interpretation, data management resources, and abstract and manuscript preparation. In addition, Core members will continue to improve existing database infrastructure. The Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Core builds upon the innovative and time-tested procedures and systems developed by Mayo Clinic, one of the largest statistical groups in the country, whose members have collaborated on clinical and basic science research studies since 1932. This Core complements and assists the efforts of the Biospecimens and Patient Registry Core and Animal Models Core by providing superior data management and experience with biospecimen registries. Through these collaborative activities, the Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Core will help ensure that research in this SPORE is carried out in an efficient, effective, and rigorous manner.