Mission Statement
The mission of the CCMTR is to promote scientific discovery and facilitate its clinical application to achieve the goal of improving the health of animals and humans. Translational research is patient-centric. The needs of the patients direct the emphasis of basic research, patient samples provide the critical resource to investigate the basis of disease, and patient participation in clinical studies is required to generate the evidence needed to apply new drugs, vaccines and technology to the broader patient population. Initiatives at the Center are designed to develop the multidisciplinary teams necessary to bring an idea from the lab to the patient. The Center is home to service cores that provide advanced technology, collect and store clinical patient samples, and perform clinical trials to validate new medical interventions. For more information contact the Center Director, Dr. Jorge Piedrahita.
Discovery
Generate knowledge related to initiation, progression, and treatment of disease:Comparative Medicine
- Multiple species under study
- Can match question of interest to most appropriate animal model
- Benefits both human and animal health
Interdisciplinary Faculty
- Clinical and non-clinical expertise gives the studies a balanced approach
- Combination of disciplines as varied as oncology, biomaterials, and structural biochemistry
- Clinical expertise in multiple areas
Partnerships
- Ongoing collaboration with scientists at UNC, Duke, EPA, NIEHS, and others further enhancing discovery potential
Translation
From bench to clinic, more innovation to benefit the patient (animal & human):Clinical Expertise
- Broad clinical expertise across many animal species
- Facilitates utilization of most appropriate animal model for drug/therapy development
Animals Models
- Naturally occuring and induced models of human and animal disease
- Multiple models in multiple species available
Interdisciplinary
- Broad discipline representation facilitates rapid and more effective translation of scientific discoveries
Application
CCMTR & partners move translational advances from research clinics to the private sector:Development & Commercialization
- Move promising technology to the private sector through partnerships and licensing agreements
- Assist interested industrial partners with development and testing of their discoveries through our expertise in multiple animal models
Implementation
- Move clinical therapeutic methods from research to utilization in clinics in collaboration with our partners in human and veterinary medicine
Regional Economic Development Assistance
- Provide links to interested industries with economic development agencies to assist in moving innovation to the private sector