COBRE Phase III

Overall – Project Summary/Abstract The overall goal of the Center for Studies of Host Response to Cancer Therapy at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) is to become a self-sustaining multidisciplinary center for research excellence that contributes to our understanding of mechanisms for side effects of cancer therapy, identifies methods for early detection, and develops strategies to prevent or treat such side effects. The Center accomplishes this overall goal by assisting junior investigators with research programs in this common theme establish themselves as independent scientists, providing opportunities for established investigators to collaborate and expand their capacities in this area, and strengthening the research infrastructure for all at UAMS. Achieving these goals will create a vibrant, multidisciplinary, yet synergistic research environment. To our knowledge, few research centers focus on cancer survivorship, and none take the paradigm-shifting approach of proactively addressing treatment- related toxicities to improve overall cancer treatment outcomes. During Phases 1 and 2, the Center has grown significantly in critical mass and is spanning the full translational spectrum from basic to clinical research that is funded by a number of federal and private sources. Several research core facilities provide services that enhance the research of Center members. In Phase 3, the Center will strengthen its research portfolio by bringing in new investigators and supporting team collaborations (Specific Aim 1); advance the Center’s technical cores to being self-sustaining by ensuring that they are run by expert personnel, adjusting core services in response to institutional needs assessments, and continuing to advertise the services to grow the user base (Specific Aim 2); and ensure that the Center becomes self-sustaining (Specific Aim 3). The Center will consist of an Administrative Core (Core A) that will continue to oversee the Center’s pilot project program, and 2 technical cores: the Bioanalytical Core (Core B) and Radiation and Imaging Core (Core C). Strengthening our interactions with the 6 other COBRE Centers and additional NIH-supported programs that enhance biomedical research in Arkansas will also contribute to establishing the Center as a self-sustaining research program that is well- integrated in the institution. The Center’s progress will be guided by a comprehensive evaluation plan and a highly qualified Advisory Committee. Strong institutional support combined with active interest from funding agencies in improving uncomplicated cancer cure rates and the quality of life of cancer survivors ensures a high likelihood of lasting success for the Center for Studies of Host Response to Cancer Therapy.