Basic Research at CCR
Ushering in a new era in which cancers are prevented or routinely detected at their earliest, most treatable stages, or managed through genetic profiling and other novel approaches, requires us to deepen our understanding of the biology of cancer and translate that knowledge into more effective, less toxic, and better tolerated therapies. Identifying the most promising avenues of research, as well as the greatest challenges, is critical to yielding major returns on our investments in the years ahead.
In addition, in order to understand the cancer process, we first need to understand the processes of normal cell growth and differentiation in order to compare disease initiation and progression. The sequencing of the human genome presents enormous opportunities for improved understanding and predicting cancer risk, prognosis, and responses to treatment. Likewise, emerging scientific fields will empower the research community to develop less invasive interventions at the molecular level, identify and characterize human proteins and their biological functions, and create new technologies to deliver precise treatments and predict therapeutic effectiveness.
CCR's basic research program:
- Supports a comprehensive spectrum of investigator-initiated research and collaborative team science
- Seeks to change the practice of oncology through new discoveries and practices that generate new knowledge relevant to basic biology and causes of human cancers
- Promotes a “culture of the corridors” environment given the close proximity of basic and clinical researchers
- Promotes efficient translation of new discoveries from the lab to the clinic via the NCI Centers of Excellence, the Drug Development Collaborative and other groups
- Creates new technologies and resources to be shared with the scientific community
Cancer Research News
To learn about the latest basic research advances at CCR, visit our News page.