Clinical Research
Gastrointestinal Cancer SPORE
The UNC Gastrointestinal Cancer SPORE (Specialized Programs of Research Excellence), one of only four in the country, is led by UNC radiation oncologist Dr. Joel Tepper. The radiation oncology component of this research program has focused on the use of combined modality therapy in the treatment of diseases of the GI tract, and assessing possible biological indicators of treatment response. For example, we are performing tumor biopsies to monitor changes in gene expression caused by radiation therapy, and then trying to correlate those changes with tumor response. Other studies attempt to inhibit the NFkB signaling pathway as a means of enhancing tumor cell killing by radiation.
For additional information on the research components of the GI SPORE, please visit the National Cancer Institute’s Specialized Programs of Research Excellence page.
Breast Cancer SPORE
UNC’s multidisciplinary breast cancer program has been a thriving example of true multidisciplinary care for the past 15 years, and accordingly, has been designated as a National Cancer Institute Specialized Program of Research Excellence. The SPORE’s emphasis is on “translational research”, bringing laboratory bench research to clinical trials. Radiation oncologist Dr. Carolyn Sartor is Co-Director of the breast program, and leads two of the five SPORE research projects.
For additional information on the research components of the Breast SPORE, please visit the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center Breast SPORE page.