Developmental Research Program

Baylor College Of Medicine, Houston TX

Investigators

Abstract

DEVELOPMENTAL RESEARCH PROGRAM (DRP) SUMMARY/ABSTRACT The objective of the Developmental Research Program (DRP) of this SPORE is to support the development and successful completion of innovative, high-risk/high-reward pilot projects that aim to understand or reduce health outcome disparities in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This program will be co-led by Dr. Monica Gramatges, a physician scientist, and Dr. Brooke Bernhardt, a pediatric oncology pharmacist and clinicianscientist. Drs. Gramatges and Bernhardt have strong track records in translational research investigating clinical, genetic, and molecular predictors of treatment-related toxicities in childhood leukemia. Their complementary disciplines and history of collaboration evidence a strong commitment of the DRP to supporting multidisciplinary research. DRP-supported projects may be basic, clinical, or translational but must address population-based disparities in ALL treatment-related toxicities (acute or late onset), or outcomes in relation to social determinants of health. Eligibility to apply for a DRP Pilot Grant will extend to any faculty member of an institution participating in this application, with alternating cycles of eligibility for early career vs. mid/late career faculty. Proposals will be scored using the NIH 9-point system. Selection for funding will be determined by the DRP Committee, with representation across all participating sites to ensure transparency in award distribution. Committee members include faculty with expertise in clinical and translational research and a strong track record of participation in grant peer review, as well as members of the U54 Community Advocate Board. Criteria for funding will be work with strong scientific merit in line with the SPORE objectives and with strong potential for future funding. Proposals representing collaborations between participating institutions will also be prioritized. All funded proposals will be awarded for one year, with an opportunity for a one-time, one-year renewal at the end of the first year. In addition to grant review and selection, the DRP Committee will be responsible for monitoring and oversight of funded projects via regular review of progress and final reports. The DRP’s core mission is to provide grant awardees with 1) funding support, 2) access to Core resources, and 3) mentorship during the award period. For each award year, $100,000 is budgeted to support funding two new or one new/one renewal award. All Pilot Grant PIs will have access to U54 Core Facilities at no cost. To conduct their proposed projects, applicants may utilize either REDIAL data and biospecimens or external data sources. The DRP Committee will assign each funded project an Advisory Committee with relevant expertise, who will provide mentorship and guidance specific to each project. A key role of the Advisory Committee, together with the DRP Committee, will be to facilitate the translation of DRP-funded projects to work that is included in a U54 SPORE project or that is independently funded.