Translational Neuro-Oncology Research Program

Building capacity to produce new knowledge and improve care for patients with brain tumors in Wisconsin

Full Project Name:Translational Neuro-Oncology Research ProgramPrincipal Investigator:Wade Mueller, MD, NeurosurgeryCo-Investigator:Shekar Kurpad, Md, PhD, Neurosurgery; Mark Malkin, MD, Neurology and Neurosurgery; Kathleen Schmainda, PhD, RadiologyAward Amount:$808,774

Award Date

June2008

Project Duration:54 months

Project Description Narrative:

In southeast Wisconsin, the Medical College of Wisconsin and Froedtert Hospital have established a collaborative and interactive team to care for patients with brain tumors. To improve their care for these patients and advance health outcomes, an expansion of the existing Neuro-Onology Program to include clinical research is necessary.

Through this award, investigators will establish a Translational Neuro-Oncology Research Program at Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin that will develop advanced MRI technologies to evaluate brain tumors and their therapies.

Outcomes & Lessons Learned:

• Expanded the clinical Neuro-Oncology Program to include clinical research to improve care for patients with brain tumors, including establishing laboratory space, developing a brain tumor tissue databank, and developing a neuro-oncology research database

• Established operational and communication structures for the program, including regular meetings and engagement and integration with brain tumor boards

• Established a brain tumor research hub as part of the MCW Cancer Center

• Recruited post-doctoral fellows and faculty to advance program's work

• Initiated investigations and disseminated new knowledge produced through the program in numerous peer-reviewed journals, presentations, and poster presentations