2010 Grants

Research Grants

UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center

Dr. Andrew Wang - $34,000
- Development of Molecularly Targeted Nanoparticles for the Delivery of Radiosensitizers
  This study will develop nanoparticles as a means to directly sensitize the tumors to chemotherapy, lessening the severity of side effects. Targeted nanoparticles work with several cancer types.

Sr. Stefanie Sarantopoulos - $25,000
- Improving Overall Survival in Patients with Leukemia, Lymphoma, and Multiple Myeloma
  With stem cell transplantation often curing leukemia and lymphoma, but with significant graft versus host disease as a side effect (death), the study will identify those who will be affected, thus allowing treatment before incurring such effects. There will be collaboration with Duke and Wake Forest Comprehensive Cancer Centers.

Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center

Dr. Micah Luftig - $55,000
- ATM as a Critical Suppressor of Epstein-Barr Virus Mediated B Cell Growth Transformation
  This project aims to develop a supressor of the EBV through analysis of Duke’s extensive data bank of tumor samples, since EBV is thought to be involved in many types of tumors. There is potential for use of this technique with other cancer types.

Wake Forest University Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center

Dr. Thomas Ellis - $20,000
- Quantification of Blood-Brain Barrier Disruption Achieved by Intracranial N-TIRE for an Optimized Combinatorial Therapy
  This project will use an FDA-approved heat therapy (N-TIRE) machine already at WFUCCC to treat glioblastoma, with a more predictable burn border and sensitivity for chemotherapy to surrounding cells, preventing recurrence.

Dr. Pradeep Garg - $40,000.
- Translational Steps from Bench to Bedside for a Highly Specific Diagnostic for Advanced Prostate Cancer Detection
  This study intends to offer a more accurate PET scan (Positron Emission Tomography which reveals functional health of tissues and organs) to detect advanced prostate cancer in time to allow for better treatment.

Brody School of Medicine at ECU

Dr. Li Yang - $45,000
- Development of Small Molecules to Modulate Tumor-Microenvironment Interaction
  This project uses prostate cancer and melanoma, but is adaptable to other cancers. It is intended to develop understanding of the interaction between tumors and their microenvironments, and to identify therapeutic targets, as well as to develop small molecules to modulate tumor microenvironment interaction for combination cancer therapy.