Tumor microenvironment research hub to advance cancer care in Appalachia
Official title: Tumor Microenvironment-TME CoBRE
Funded at West Virginia University · NIH-11413654 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A cancer-focused research center at West Virginia University is exploring how the tumor environment affects cancer progression and therapy, with a goal of improving care for people in Appalachia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | West Virginia University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Morgantown, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2018 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $2,132,598 |
| NIH project number | 5P20GM121322-09 |
| Project ID | NIH-11413654 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals with cancer in the Appalachian region who might benefit from future therapies targeting the tumor microenvironment.
✕Less likely to help
Farm workers, visitors, or individuals without cancer are unlikely to directly benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This NIH P20 grant supports a Center of Excellence at WVU HSC that studies the tumor microenvironment (TME) to uncover new therapeutic strategies. The project builds on Phase I successes and expands translational teams, training students, and developing junior scientists to push mechanisms and treatments toward clinical impact. It emphasizes collaborations across multiple labs to study diverse tumor types and how the surrounding tissue and immune landscape influence outcomes. The center also highlights workforce development and community-focused relevance in West Virginia’s Appalachian region.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to new treatments tailored to the TME that may improve survival and quality of life for cancer patients in Appalachia.
How similar studies have gone: Phase I demonstrated productive collaborations, trained researchers, and several pilot and external grants, suggesting strong potential for Phase II success.
Where this research is happening
-
West Virginia University
Morgantown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lockman, Paul R — West Virginia University
- Study coordinator: Lockman, Paul R
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.