Summary
Cancer affects the health of millions of Americans. Studying molecular mechanisms that endow cells with
malignant properties is an essential component of advancing pre-clinical studies and a key part of efforts to
improve patient outcomes. The purpose of this COBRE submission is to establish the Center for Molecular
Interactions in Cancer (CMIC) at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). The mission of the
CMIC is to study molecular features and functional properties of biomolecules that drive cancer. The unifying
theme of research among Center members is the coupling of structural biology and high-resolution imaging with
precise, quantitative analysis of biochemical and cellular processes to understand how molecular interactions
govern the initiation, progression and treatment of cancer. In Phase 1 of this COBRE, we will pursue the following
aims: (Aim 1) establish the CMICcreating an organizational framework that ensures the success of junior
investigators as independent scientists and strengthens the research infrastructure at UAMS and its affiliate
institutions, (Aim 2) build a thematic, multidisciplinary COBRE center with unique collaborative opportunities and
strong research programs focused on understanding the molecular basis of cancer, and (Aim 3) implement a
plan for long-term sustainability of the CMIC. The organization of the CMIC will include 5 Research Projects, an
Administrative Core, and 2 new research coresthe Structural Biology Core and the Biomolecular Interactions
Core. The Administrative Core will oversee operation of the Center, including a Pilot Project Program to fuel the
pipeline of replacement Research Project Leaders (RPLs) and a formalized Faculty Development Plan that
includes individualized mentoring. The Structural Biology Core will help RPLs plan and execute structure-function
studies by ensuring high-quality sample preparation and providing access to world-class instrumentation and
computational resources required for high-resolution structural studies. The Biomolecular Interactions Core will
enable researchers to perform quantitative analysis of macromolecular interactions and dynamics down to the
level of single-molecules. Both research cores will assist users in experimental design, data analysis and
interpretation of results, while also providing training and educational outreach. The CMIC will address an
institutional priority at UAMS and contribute to the mission of the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute by
creating a critical mass of investigators who are able to gain molecular-level insights into mechanisms that are
crucial for a deep understanding of cancer biology. Our long-term goal is to leverage faculty mentoring, strategic
recruitment, and cutting-edge core resources to develop a critical mass of investigators that will support a self-
sustaining center in which research advances our knowledge of cancer through precise and comprehensive
analyses of molecular events that impact malignant pathogenesis.