Core C

Radiation and Imaging Core – Project Summary/Abstract Translational research into the biology of cancer therapy side effects relies heavily on complex in vivo research models that require specific expertise for their design and development, implementation, and troubleshooting. The mission of the Radiation and Imaging Core (Core C) at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) is to facilitate the development and use of imaging and experimental radiation in pre-clinical models by investigators in the Center for Studies of Host Response to Cancer Therapy and other users on campus and in surrounding institutions. During Phases 1 and 2 of the Center, Core C has provided its services through 2 institutional core facilities: the UAMS Ultrasound Imaging Core and the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute Radiation Biology Shared Resource, both of which operate on a fee- for-service basis. In doing so, Core C has built a strong infrastructure for radiation research and high- resolution ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging of small animals. During Phase 3, Core C will continue to provide these services to investigators at UAMS and surrounding institutions. The core will perform high-resolution imaging of small research animals (Specific Aim 1); provide high-quality radiation services in a wide range of research models (Specific Aim 2); provide mentoring, training, consultation, and technical assistance within the core’s areas of expertise (Specific Aim 3); and become a self-sustaining research core facility (Specific Aim 4). Core personnel confirm that the necessary maintenance, calibration, and radiation dosimetry are performed to guarantee high-quality services. Core services are advertised with poster and oral presentations at a range of departmental and institution-wide meetings and retreats, regional and national NIGMS IDeA conferences, and other local and national research symposia. In Phase 3, we will focus on increasing our visibility in the states surrounding Arkansas to increase the user base. Regular surveys among core users will identify additional services that may be required, and with COBRE and institutional support, such services will be developed. UAMS continues to expand its externally funded research portfolio, with cancer research as one of the areas of emphasis, requiring state-of-the-art small animal radiation and imaging services. In Phase 3, Core C will continue to provide critical research infrastructure and training to investigators in the Center for Studies of Host Response to Cancer Therapy and other research laboratories at UAMS and serve investigators from other institutions in Arkansas and surrounding states.