Ellis Fischel Cancer Center research programs encompass a range of topics and disciplines.
Investigators from across the University of Missouri System participate in basic, translational, clinical, and population-based research, with strategic emphases in the following areas.
Theranostics and Molecular Imaging
The Molecular Imaging and Theranostics Center is developing targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy agents, either alone or in combination with immune-based therapies, to treat melanoma and other types of cancer. A strong partnership with the MU Research Reactor gives Ellis Fischel Cancer Center a national reputation in radiation-targeted cancer diagnostics and therapeutics. The goal is to kill cancer cells with less damage to the body — improving the patient’s quality of life.
- Leader: Carolyn Anderson, PhD
Immunomodulation and Regenerative Medicine
These areas of study aim to leverage the mechanisms involved in activating the immune system to fight cancer. Recent discoveries by University of Missouri researchers have shown the immune system can be trained to offer long-term protection against various cancer types. The discovery of new immune pathways that can be used with theranostic immunotargeting and cancer immunoprevention could serve a unique long-term niche for Ellis Fischel Cancer Center and its affiliate partners to build a competitive program in cancer immunotherapy.
- Leader: Haval Shirwan, PhD
Comparative Oncology and Translational Medicine
Comparative oncology is the study of naturally developing cancers in animals as models for human disease, and translational research is the process by which the results from basic research are used to develop new ways to diagnose and treat disease. Research in this area is focused on translational oncology models for the development of targeted imaging and therapy and understanding of epigenetic contributions to cancer development, progression, and therapy.
- Leader: Jeffrey Bryan, DVM, PhD
Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination
The objective of the Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination (CRTEC) is to provide rigorous training in cancer research and support career development in biomedical cancer research or healthcare. The program offers educational opportunities for individuals at multiple levels, from elementary students to junior faculty members.
At the University of Missouri, the CRTEC focuses on coordinating and facilitating cancer research education and training across the entire academic spectrum. This includes organizing seminar series, scientific seminars, workshops, educational resources, Continuing Medical Education (CME) and various networking and mentoring activities. The program is committed to equipping individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills for successful careers in the field of cancer research.
- Leader: Robin Dianics, JM, MBA
Cancer Prevention and Control
The Cancer Prevention and Control (CPC) Program is dedicated to alleviating the impact of cancer on a population scale. It engages in observational and interventional studies focusing on primary prevention, early detection, health outcomes and the delivery of cancer care to diverse communities, including the state of Missouri.
Cancer represents a significant burden on both the United States and global societies. In 2018, an estimated 1.7 million new cancer cases were diagnosed in the United States, leading to over 600,000 deaths. The National Cancer Institute reports that the national expenditures for cancer care in the United States reached $147.3 billion in 2017, with increasing costs projected. While affecting all population groups, certain groups may experience a more pronounced impact, underscoring the importance of understanding and addressing health disparities. In Missouri, the burden of cancer adds to the broader national challenge, emphasizing the need for targeted efforts in this region. Globally, cancer remains a leading cause of death, with over half of all new cases and two-thirds of cancer deaths occurring in less developed regions.
- Leader: Gerhard Hildebrandt, MD, FACP
Community Outreach and Engagement
The Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) Programs collaborate with communities, practitioners and researchers to expedite health equity and alleviate the burden of cancer in the state of Missouri.
The goals of Community Outreach and Engagement at Ellis Fischel are to:
- Track the burden of cancer and disparities in Missouri and recognize priorities driven by the community.
- Promote research that makes a meaningful impact, addressing community needs and advocating for equity.
- Share and apply sustainable evidence-based guidelines, practices and policies.
- Leader: Kevin Everett, PhD
