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Researchers and Staff
June 9, 2009
Reminder: Update will have a biweekly schedule during the summer. Publication dates are: June 23, July 7 and 21, and August 4 and 18. Please submit items to Gina Kennedy, kenne069@umn.edu, by noon Friday before each publication date.
In This Issue
Funding News and Opportunities
Today's Seminar
Tuesday, June 9, 2009, 12-1 p.m., 450 MCRB
Type-1 polarizing immunotherapy and immuno-prevention of gliomas
Hideho Okada M.D., Ph.D., Associate Professor of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Co-leader, Brain Tumor Program, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute
Host: John Ohlfest, Ph.D.
A peek at the next seminar:
June 16, 2009, 12-1 p.m., 450 MCRB
Molecular regulators of self renewal in normal tissues and cancer
Michael F. Clarke, Ph.D., Stanford Stem Cell and Biology Regenerative Medicine Institute
Host: Rachelle Veenstra, MICaB graduate student
For a complete schedule and to watch recorded seminars, visit the Web site.
News
Members in the news
Selwyn Vickers, M.D., associate director for translational research, was interviewed in a Minnesota PublicRadio story about a new DNA test for detection of pancreatic and other gastrointestinal cancers.
Jin-Min Yuan, Ph.D., Prevention and Etiology Program, was quoted in Oncology Nursing News about his research that higher levels of the metabolite NNAL in the urine could help researchers determine why some smokers will develop lung cancers and others will not.
Yong Yeon Cho, Ph.D., and Zigang Dong, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Hormel Institute in Austin and members of the Carcinogenesis and Chemoprevention Program, were cited about their research in the Austin Daily Herald.
Medical Bulletin feature cancer researchers
The cover story of the spring 2009 Medical Bulletin focuses on research collaborations between Masonic Cancer Center, other clinical research areas, and the College of Veterinary Medicine. The story features cancer researchers John Ohlfest, Ph.D., Genetic Mechanisms of Cancer and Tumor Biology and Progression Programs; Liz Pluhar, V.M.D., Ph.D., and Jaime Modiano, V.M.D., Ph.D., Genetic Mechanisms of Cancer and Immunology Programs, as well as Batman, the shepherd-mix dog that successfully underwent surgery performed by Pluhar to remove a brain tumor and then received an experimental treatment developed in the Ohlfest laboratory.
The issue also features cancer research reports involving Timothy Church, Ph.D., Prevention and Etiology Program; David Largaespada, Ph.D., leader of the Genetic Mechanisms of Cancer Program; and Daniel Weisdorf, M.D., co-leader of the Transplant Biology and Therapy Program.
The Medical Bulletin is published by Minnesota Medical Foundation.
Two Cancer Center Basic/Translational Science Researchers Needed to Mentor Undergraduates
Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota in collaboration with the Medical School's Program in Health Disparities Research has very recently received funding for the Masonic Cancer Center Health Disparities Summer Internship. For the summers of 2009 and 2010, ten undergraduate students from Minnesota's minorities or under-represented communities will be invited to complete an eight-week internship program that will include seminars on the fundamentals of research and translational research, and career development in the health professions. Interns will also be matched with a faculty mentor to participate in cancer-related research projects. Qualified candidates will be incoming undergraduate college sophomores or juniors from any college or university who plan to become health care or research professionals and are from minority communities or other under-represented groups. Successful candidates must conduct themselves in a professional manner and work well in both independent and group settings. Internships will be 40 hours per week and are anticipated to start Monday, June 29, and last up to eight weeks. Interns will receive a stipend up to $3,200 for the summer and will be expected to provide their own computer and arrange their own transportation and lodging.
The Masonic Cancer Center Health Disparities Summer Internship Application and Recommendation Form must be completed and emailed to Sandra Rivera at river039@umn before 5 p.m. on Friday, June 12. The review committee looks forward to receiving applications!
2009 Application Schedule
Application deadline—Friday, June 12 at 5 p.m.
Award notification date—Wednesday, June 17-Thursday, June 18
Anticipated start date—Monday, June 29 at 9 a.m.
Please feel free to share this information with anyone who may be interested in this opportunity.
More Cancer researchers present at ASCO meeting
Members of the laboratory of Arkadiusz Dudek, M.D., Ph.D., Tumor Biology and Progression Program, presented research at the recent American Society of Clinical Oncology annual meeting in Orlando. Presentations included a talk on "A phase II trial of dasatinib in advanced melanoma" and a poster "Efficacy of capecitabine in secondary prevention of skin cancer in solid organ-transplanted recipients (OTR)."
Understanding Targeted Therapies for Cancer: An NCI Animated Web Tutorial
Understanding Targeted Therapies for Cancer is an animated, educational Web tutorial for cancer health professionals who wish to learn more about targeted cancer therapies. Produced by the National Cancer Institute's Center for Cancer Research, the tutorial explains the three main types of targeted therapies, their risks and benefits, and how they differ from conventional chemotherapy. The tutorial provides a tour of the FDA-approved agents and shows the viewer how to find clinical trials that are evaluating these new treatment approaches.
The targeted therapies described in this tutorial are transforming the way cancer is treated. These carefully designed drugs have already begun to make personalized medicine a reality and will continue to help doctors tailor cancer treatment based on the characteristics of each individual's cancer. It is important for health professionals to become familiar with the concept of targeted therapies so they can communicate with their patients about these new approaches. The information provided in this tutorial will contribute to improved informed decision-making.
The tutorial is also available as a DVD. To request a copy, please contact Donna Kerrigan at kerrigad@mail.nih.gov.
Education and Events
Center for the Study of Impulsivity in Addiction Seminar
Tuesday June 9th, 2009, 12 p.m., 717 Delaware St. SE, Room 105A
The good, the bad, and the impulsive: Emotional aspects of tobacco smoking and abstinence.
Jeffrey M. Engelmann, Department of Psychology
A luncheon platter will be available, first come first served.
Herberger's Friends & Family Appreciation Event
June 12-16, 2009, Herberger's Department Stores
Masonic Cancer Center members and staff are invited to shop at a 25 percent discount at area Herberger's stores or online. The Friends & Family coupon (download the coupon) can be redeemed June 12-16, including during the store's Preview and 12-Hour Sale Days June 12 and 13. Herberger's supports the cancer center with its "Charge Against Breast Cancer" program, which supports breast cancer research at the cancer center every time a customer makes a purchase with the Herberger's Rose charge card.
Seventh Annual Cancer Survivorship Series: Living With, Through & Beyond Cancer
A Three-Part Telephone Education Workshop Program
Part III, Survivors Too: Family, Friends and Loved Ones: Managing the Fatigue of Caregiving
Tuesday, June 23, 2009, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., EST.
This free series, made possible by CancerCare and with support from the National Cancer Institute and Lance Armstrong Foundation, offers cancer survivors, their families, friends and health care professionals practical information to help them cope with concerns and issues that arise after treatment ends.
The featured speakers for this workshop include:
- Joe Sommer, Caregiver, Executive Director, AT&T Intellectual Property
- Laurel L. Northouse, R.N., Ph.D., F.A.A.N., Mary Lou Willard French Professor of Nursing, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Co-Director, Socio-Behavior Program, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center
- Shelby L. Langer, Ph.D., Research Assistant Professor, University of Washington School of Social Work, Affiliate Investigator, Biobehavioral Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
These workshops are free—no phone charges apply. However,pre-registration is required. To register simply go to the CancerCare website, www.cancercare.org/TEW and click on Register for a Telephone Education Workshop.
Part I of the series, Managing the Stress of Survivorship, and Part II, The Importance of Nutrition and Physical Activity, are availalbe as podcasts.
Time to Fly®
Saturday, June 27, 2009 at Harriet Island Regional Park in St. Paul
Join in the race against childhood cancer. Bring your family and friends to the 7th annual Time to Fly®Walk/Run, and help move us one step closer to a world free of childhood cancer. This event features something for everyone: the recreational walker, the competitive runner, and people of all ages who simply like to get out and exercise for a good cause.
- 10K Run, 5K Run, 5K Walk, and 1K Kids’ Fun Run
- The Twin Cities’ most scenic certified race route along the majestic Mississippi river.
- Technical shirts and race bags for all runners and walkers
- Post-race food-and-beverage spread and activities for all ages
For registration or for more information, visit www.CCRFTimeToFly.com or call 952-224-8497.
Living with Lynch Syndrome: An Update for Families with HNPCC
June 27, 2009, 10 a.m. -3 p.m., Mayo Clinic, Rochester
This half-day educational program will offer a variety of topics focusing on Lynch syndrome—also known as Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC)—from the biological basis of the condition and psychological impact of a diagnosis to practical health care tips. The program is designed for people living with Lynch syndrome, their family members, and interested health care professionals. Patients and families will be able to expand their knowledge, network with one another, and share their experiences. Anna Leininger, M.S., C.G.C., Minnesota Colorectal Cancer Initiative coordinator and consultant to the Masonic Cancer Center's William C. Bernstein MD Familial Cancer Registry, will be one of the presenters at the program. The program is hosted by Mayo Clinic; organizing sponsors include the William C. Bernstein MD Familial Cancer Registry, HealthEast Cancer Care, and the Colon Cancer Coalition. Cost is $20 per person; $35 per couple; and $50 per family (up to 5 members). For more information or to register, download the brochure, call 507-284-2241, or e-mail canceredprog@mayo.edu.
Visit the Upcoming Events Web page for more event listings.
Visit the Professional Education Web page for more conference and special lecture listings.
Program Meetings
Women's Cancer Interest Group
Tuesday, June 9, 2009, 10 a.m., 450 MCRB
Updates in cervical cancer prevention
Rahel Ghebre, M.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health
For a complete schedule, visit the Web site.
Transdisciplinary Tobacco Use Research Center Lectures
Friday, June 12, 2009, 12-1 p.m., 450 MCRB
The movement towards tobacco-free/smoke-free college campuses
David Golden, Director of Public Health and Communications, Boynton Health Service
and
Maria Rudie, M.P.H., Associate Program Director, Boynton Health Services
For a complete schedule, visit the Web site.
BMT Conference
Monday, June 22, 2009, 1:15-2:15 p.m., 450 MCRB
Imatinib for Chronic Graft Versus Host Disease
George Chen, M.D., Research Fellow, Blood & Marrow Transplant, Stanford University Medical School
Host: Daniel Weisdorf, M.D.
For a complete schedule, visit the Web site.
Funding News and Opportunities
NIH:
Recovery Act Limited Competition: Biomedical Research, Development, and Growth to Spur the Acceleration of New Technologies (BRDG-SPAN) Pilot Program (RC3)
(RFA-OD-09-008)
National Institutes of Health
National Cancer Institute
American Reinvestment and Recovery Act of 2009
Application Receipt Date: September 01, 2009
Funding: $1 million total costs per year for 3 years
The purpose of this pilot program, called Biomedical Research, Development, and Growth to Spur the Acceleration of New Technologies (BRDG-SPAN), is to accelerate the transition of research innovations and technologies toward the development of products or services that will improve human health, help advance the mission of NIH and its Institutes and Centers (ICs), and create significant value and economic stimulus.
Biomarkers for Early Detection of Hematopoietic Malignancies (R01)
(PA-09-197)
Biomarkers for Early Detection of Hematopoietic Malignancies (R21)
(PA-09-198)
National Cancer Institute
Application Receipt Date(s): Multiple dates, see announcement.
Funding: Standard R01 & R21 limits apply
This FOA encourages research grant applications from institutions/organizations for the development and validation of biomarkers for: a) early detection, prediction of progression, and recurrence of hematopoietic malignancies, especially in high-risk individuals; and, b) for risk assessment of primary and secondary hematopoietic malignancies.
Identifying Non-coding RNA Targets for Cancer Early Detection and Prevention (R01)
(PA-09-199)
Identifying Non-coding RNA Targets for Cancer Early Detection and Prevention (R21)
(PA-09-200)
National Cancer Institute
Application Receipt Date(s): Multiple dates, see announcement.
Funding: Standard R01 & R21 limits apply
This FOA encourages research grant applications from institutions/organizations on the discovery and characterization of non-coding (nc) RNAs in preneoplasias and early stage cancers to: 1) improve early cancer detection, intervention, and prevention; 2) predict risk of progression from preneoplasia to cancer, and 3) distinguish benign lesions from precancerous lesions.
Centers of Cancer Nanotechnology Excellence (CCNEs)(U54)
(RFA-CA-09-012)
National Cancer Institute
Application Receipt Date: October 14, 2009
Funding: $3.2 milllion total costs per year for up to 5 years
This Funding Opportunity Announcement solicits grant applications to establish a collaborative network of Centers for Cancer Nanotechnology Excellence (CCNEs) within the NCI Alliance for Nanotechnology in Cancer (The Alliance) program (http://nano.cancer.gov).
Cancer Nanotechnology Platform Partnerships (U01)
(RFA-CA-09-013)
National Cancer Institute
Application Receipt Date: October 14, 2009
Funding: $400,000 for up to 5 years.
This Funding Opportunity Announcement solicits applications for the development of cancer nanotechnology platforms. This initiative, to be known as the Cancer Nanotechnology Platform Partnerships (CNPPs), is an integral component of a broader program - the NCI Alliance for Nanotechnology in Cancer (The Alliance) (http://nano.cancer.gov).
Non-federal:
Lustgarten Foundation Request for Proposals
Lustgarten Foundation
Application receipt date: LOI - July 24, 2009; Application - Aug. 7, 2009
Funding: $100,000 total costs for one year beginning Jan. 1, 2010
The Lustgarten Foundation is pleased to announce that grant requests are being accepted to provide funding for research into the biology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of pancreatic cancer. The goal of this initiative is to make rapid advances in the battle against pancreatic cancer through a combination of cutting edge technology and novel ideas.
J.P. McCarthy Fund - 2009 Developmental Grant Program
Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan
Application receipt date: Aug. 17, 2009
Funding: $25,000 per year for two years.
The objective of this program is to strengthen the base of high-quality research in hematological diseases in the major research universities and medical centers across the country. It is intended that these awards will expeditiously initiate research projects to generate preliminary data, and be leveraged to successfully compete for conventional funding support through recognized national extramural grant programs.
Visit the Funding News & Opportunities Web page to see listings previously published in Update. Also, a list of organizations that provide funding for cancer research is provided on our Research Funding Resources page.