Mechanisms of Fusion-Driven Oncogenesis in Childhood Cancers (U01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

NCI is forming the Targeting Fusion Oncoproteins in Childhood Cancers (TFCC) Network to advance our understanding of the mechanisms of action of fusion oncoproteins in pediatric cancers and to apply novel chemical strategies for developing targeted therapeutic approaches. This RFA will use the U01 mechanism to solicit applications focused on molecular mechanisms by which fusion oncoproteins drive pediatric cancers with the goals of better understanding the biology of these cancers and identifying potential drug targets or critical dependencies. Examples of relevant research activities include, but are not limited to, dissecting pathways by which these fusion oncoproteins cause cancer, characterizing the composition and structure of fusion oncoprotein complexes, and delineating the roles of ncRNAs and post-translational modifications in fusion oncoprotein function. Funding priority will be given to applications that focus on fusion oncoproteins found in tumors that have high risk of treatment failure and for which there has been little progress in identifying targeted agents. Applications focused on pediatric solid tumors and brain tumors are particularly encouraged. U01 recipients will meet regularly with UM1 grantees funded through the Next Generation Chemistry Centers for Fusion Oncoproteins FOA.

Other Eligible Applicants include the following: Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions; Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISISs); Eligible Agencies of the Federal Government; Faith-based or Community-based Organizations; Hispanic-serving Institutions; Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs); Indian/Native American Tribal Governments (Other than Federally Recognized); Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Organizations); Regional Organizations; Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCUs) ; U.S. Territory or Possession; Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Institutions) are not eligible to apply. Non-domestic (non-U.S.) components of U.S. Organizations are not eligible to apply. Foreign components, as defined in the NIH Grants Policy Statement, are allowed.