Texas universities secure $6 million in cancer research funding to address health disparities

The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) Oversight Committee convened on November 20, 2024, to discuss significant advancements and funding allocations in cancer research across Texas. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to address cancer disparities, particularly among Hispanic populations, and the collaborative initiatives among various institutions.

The committee began by reviewing the allocation of funds for essential equipment necessary for cancer research, emphasizing the importance of training personnel to effectively utilize these instruments. A new pilot study award of approximately $200,000 over two years was introduced, aimed at supporting high-impact, high-risk research with a focus on geographic diversity. Awardees included the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) in Lubbock, and Texas A&M.

The meeting showcased the initial $6 million awards granted to five institutions over five years. Notable mentions included the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), which is concentrating on Hispanic cancer health disparities, and TTUHSC Lubbock, focusing on pediatric cancer drug development. The second cycle of funding also included Texas A&M and UTRGV, with research centered on gene-environment interactions and cancer outcomes in Hispanic populations.

A virtual symposium held in June 2024 facilitated collaboration among institutions, allowing representatives to present their research and explore potential partnerships. UTEP's strategy involves building infrastructure for cancer research, including data collection and analytics, supported by significant funding from CPRIT and NIH.

TTUHSC Lubbock reported $36 million in active external grant funding, with a focus on biobanking and clinical trials. The institution has successfully recruited junior faculty who have secured substantial grants, further enhancing their research capabilities.

TTUHSC El Paso, a newer recipient of the track award, has also begun supporting junior faculty members who have received grants from prestigious organizations, demonstrating the impact of CPRIT funding on fostering new talent in cancer research.

Overall, the meeting underscored CPRIT's commitment to advancing cancer research in Texas, particularly in underserved communities, and highlighted the collaborative efforts among institutions to address critical health disparities. The committee plans to continue monitoring the progress of funded projects and explore further opportunities for collaboration and funding in the future.