Cancer Biology Research Program

Promoting research aimed at identifying new therapeutic targets and developing more effective therapies to treat cancer

Full Project Name:Cancer Biology Research ProgramPrincipal Investigator:Gustavo Leone, PhD, MedicineCo-Investigator:Hallgeir Rui, MD, PhD, PathologyAward Amount:$4,986,242

Award Date

November2011

Project Duration:116 months

Project Description Narrative:

In 2016, the American Cancer Society and Wisconsin Division of Public Health estimated that 285,000 Wisconsin residents are living with a cancer diagnosis, a significant increase from 2013. While much of this increase is attributed to improved cancer screening rates, survivorship is also on the rise because of improved treatments, and the rate of cancer mortality in Wisconsin is falling.

Through this award, researchers aim to promote outstanding research aimed at identifying new therapeutic targets and developing more effective therapies to treat and prevent the recurrence of cancer for the citizens of Wisconsin.

Outcomes & Lessons Learned:

Contributed to several publishing efforts that addressed the goal of identifying unique genetic, signaling, and metabolic features of cancer cells. As of this reporting period, this represents more than 360 publishing efforts through this program
Established an interactive community of investigators through participation in the Cancer Cell Biology Research Forum, which meets weekly to promote the sharing of ideas and collaboration
Increased cancer expertise through recruitment of two new team members and additional leading scientists in the field as contributors and mentors
Conducted more than 95 local, national or international presentations on discoveries related to this work
Garnered more than $33 million in additional funding