Overview & Agreements
Synopsis of the NCI Comparative Oncology Trial Consortium
A central mission of the Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI) is the development and delivery of novel cancer treatment strategies for cancer patients. A significant hurdle in the translation of information from the laboratory to the clinic is the availability of appropriate preclinical cancer models. Through a number of new initiatives created by the CCR, an essential infrastructure now exists to facilitate the translational research process. These efforts include the creation of the NCI Comparative Oncology Program (COP). The goal of this program is to include naturally occurring cancer seen in pet animals into studies of cancer biology and drug development. NCI is pleased that your company/institution has interest in participating in this novel program.
How We Operate
The NCI has agreements with each COTC member to allow NCI to take the lead on dealings with all companies/institutions which have a desire to interact with the COTC. Following discussions between your company/institution and the NCI, together we will determine if there is mutual interest in the study of your company’s drug by the COTC. NCI then will determine which COTC site is most appropriate to conduct a trial of your drug. NCI adds value to this interaction by supplying trial design, oversight and data management. NCI does not fund the COTC, but in many instances operational costs are offset by funding obtained from outside sources. In those instances, acceptance of such funds is made conditional on consistency with the COTC mission and any agreement we might develop with your company/institution. And while it is COTC member institutions which conduct the actual research, your agreement is made only with the NCI (acting on behalf of the COTC).