NIH Reporter #5P30DK065988-22

Core D: Mucus Biochemistry and Biophysics Core

Award to University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for the Core D: Mucus Biochemistry and Biophysics Core, supporting cystic fibrosis research and therapeutic development through specialized research cores and clinical translation.

Description

The UNC Cystic Fibrosis Research and Translation Core Center (CFRTCC) aims to achieve a systemic cure for cystic fibrosis (CF) across the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, pancreas, and lungs by synergizing and accelerating CF therapeutic development. The center has an extensive research base with 120 faculty members specializing in CFTR biogenesis, ion transport, genetics, gene therapy, epithelial cell biology, mucus biochemistry and biophysics, microbiology/immunology, inflammation/infection, and clinical research. Current funding exceeds $37 million in direct costs. The center requires accurate in vitro and in vivo testing of drug candidates, access to diverse epithelial cell supplies, new mucus/mucin technologies, and a clinical research network. It maintains a focus on systemic CF pathophysiology and therapies, supported by a strong Administrative Core of Multi-PIs overseeing budget, communication, training, and program activities. The center offers four research service cores: Molecular/Functional Measurement Core, Cell Models Core, Mucus Biochemistry and Biophysics Core, and Clinical Translation Core. The program also supports Pilot and Feasibility Awards for early-career investigators. The center is committed to advancing CF research and therapeutic development.

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