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Overview

To drive progress from the lab to the clinic to the community, CCRI has organized its research into three integrated programs, reflecting a collaborative and translational approach:

Cancer Biology and Immunology- “Understanding tumor mechanisms and immune interactions”

The program focuses on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis. The program also explores the complex interactions between cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment, with a particular focus on how immune cells contribute to immune evasion and tumor survival. By investigating the genetic, epigenetic, and signaling pathways that regulate tumor growth, the program aims to uncover key insights into how cancer cells circumvent normal regulatory processes and develop resistance to treatment. These discoveries serve as a foundation for drug discovery and the development of novel, mechanism-based therapeutic strategies to improve cancer treatment outcomes. 

Experimental Therapeutics- “From lab to clinic: drug development and early-phase trials”

The program integrates cutting-edge approaches in molecular biology, pharmacology, and bioinformatics to discover new drug targets and optimize drug design. Researchers in this program utilize high-throughput screening, structure-based drug design, nanotechnology, and advanced modeling techniques to identify promising compounds and evaluate their efficacy, safety, and potential for clinical use. Additionally, the program investigates innovative therapeutic strategies, including targeted therapies and combination therapies, aimed at improving treatment outcomes. Through collaboration with clinical researchers, the program also works to accelerate the translation of discoveries from the lab to the clinic, ensuring that novel therapies address unmet medical needs and enhance patient care. 

Population Health and Cancer Control- “Addressing disparities, prevention, and community outreach”

The program focuses on reducing the burden of cancer through early detection, prevention, and health promotion strategies aimed at diverse populations. The program combines epidemiological research, behavioral science, and public health strategies to identify risk factors for cancer and develop effective intervention approaches. Researchers examine lifestyle factors, environmental exposures, genetic predispositions, and socio-economic determinants that contribute to cancer risk, with an emphasis on underserved and high-risk populations. By identifying patterns of cancer incidence and survivorship at the population level, the program aims to implement evidence-based preventive measures, including screening guidelines, vaccination programs, and health education initiatives. The ultimate goal is to reduce cancer incidence, improve early detection, and promote healthier lifestyles to lower cancer-related morbidity and mortality across communities.