Phase I and II Clinical Research Program Infrastructure Award - Brenda Weigel, MD/MSc & Emily Greengard MD (2015)
Background
Currently, our program is actively developing agents in three areas: brain tumors, sarcomas and leukemias. These trials are local investigator-initiated trials that have local, national, and/or pharmaceutical support. These three areas form the pillars of our pediatric drug development program. The agents in development marry the best in scientific development at the University of Minnesota, namely cellular and immune-based therapies with clinical trial expertise. “The support of ALSF is critical in translating findings from the lab to the clinic and moving us towards greater cures for childhood cancers.” - Dr. Brenda Weigel
Project Goals
This award will allow for the ongoing development of new agents for patients with childhood cancers treated at the University of Minnesota and elsewhere. We are focusing our work on developing new therapies for brain tumors, sarcomas as well as leukemias. The new therapies are targeted at specific markers on the cancer cells that hopefully allow for a great chance for cure compared to other non-targeted therapies. The ALSF grant allows us to maintain the necessary staff to continue this work and bring it to the clinic to treat children with cancer. It also allows us the ability to work with other institutions to bring new therapies to a greater number of children.
