UT Southwestern's winning application was spearheaded by Dr. Minna; Dr. Jerry Shay, professor of cell biology; Dr. David Chen, co-director of the NSCOR, professor of radiation oncology and head of the molecular radiation biology division; and Dr. Michael Story, associate professor of radiation oncology.
"The implications of radiation in space on the human body are not well understood, and this grant will enable us to examine the consequences and risks," Dr. Shay said. "This award solidifies an already strong program in lung cancer biology here and will help in our efforts to obtain recognition from the National Cancer Institute as a 'Comprehensive Cancer Center.' "
Dr. Chen, who received a $1.36 million NASA grant last fall to study "DNA Damage Responses Induced by HZE Particles in Human Cells" said the NSCOR will enable him and his colleagues in molecular radiation biology to further their DNA repair research on several fronts. "Our new division is working with clinicians at UT Southwestern to develop new modalities for treating patients," Dr. Chen said. "Part of our work is to find better ways to eliminate cancer cells in patients. Another is to increase our knowledge and understanding of radiation's effects and how to protect the cells in the body from harmful radiation, whether caused by space travel, nuclear waste accident or terrorism."
The $9.8 million award is the second such NASA grant for UT Southwestern. A five-year, $5 million NASA Specialized Center of Research an
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Contact: Scott Maier
scott.maier@utsouthwestern.edu
214-648-3404
UT Southwestern Medical Center
24-Feb-2005