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Cancer Research

Advancing Cancer Research, Transforming Patient Care 

At the University of Mississippi Medical Center Cancer Center and Research Institute (CCRI), research is at the heart of everything we do. Our scientists, physicians, and collaborators are committed to pushing the boundaries of knowledge to discover new ways to prevent, detect, and treat cancer. 

Cutting-edge discoveries with real-world impact 
Our research programs span the full spectrum of cancer science—from understanding the disease at its earliest stages to developing therapies that change the course of treatment. CCRI scientists focus on a number of critical cancer research themes: 

• Cancer genomics and epigenetics to uncover how genetic and molecular changes drive cancer. 

• Tumor microenvironment research to explore how cancer cells interact with surrounding stromal and immune cells, influencing tumor growth, metastasis and response to therapy 

• Biomarker discovery to improve early detection, predict clinical outcomes, enable disease monitoring and guide therapeutic planning. 

• Cancer stem cell biology to understand and address treatment resistance and recurrence. 

• Drug discovery and delivery to design innovative therapies and improve how treatments reach tumors. 

• Immuno-oncology research to find ways to harness the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. 

• Precision medicine to tailor treatments based on individual patient and tumor characteristics. 

• Cancer prevention, survivorship, and quality of life research to reduce risk, support recovery, and improve long-term well-being. 

Research that improves patient outcomes 
Every study we conduct has a single goal: to improve the lives of patients and families. Our work translates directly into better survival rates, access to next-generation therapies, and more effective care—especially for those in underserved and rural communities who have historically faced barriers to advanced treatment. Together, we are working to change the trajectory of cancer in Mississippi—through research, innovation, and compassion. 

In pursuit of National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation, CCRI has organized its research intothree integrated research programs, reflecting a collaborative and translational approach. Further, we are expanding our clinical trials to offer more patients access to cutting-edge therapies and to accelerate the development of new cancer treatments.Achieving NCI designation will enhance our ability to deliver cutting-edge therapies, drive innovation, and bring hope to patients across the state. With every discovery and every patient served, CCRI is building a future where cancer is not only treated but ultimately prevented and defeated.