Continuation and Expansion of the National Mesothelioma Virtual Bank for Translational Research (U24)

The National Mesothelioma Virtual Bank (NMVB) was established in 2006 to serve as a resource for malignant mesothelioma research. This funding opportunity will advance biomedical research for malignant mesothelioma by adding more biospecimens together with demographic data and clinical data.  Examples of biospecimens include fresh frozen tumor and control tissues, paraffin embedded tissues, blood, DNA, RNA, and protein samples from mesothelioma patients. Demographic data includes age, sex, race, and occupational history. Clinical data includes stage, treatment, and survival information.  The virtual registry and tissue bank also serve as a virtual repository and offer a library of biospecimens and data that investigators can use and share, including genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data.  The NMVB can:  Help identify early signs of disease.  Support the development of biomarkers that show disease stage and prognosis.  Help develop new or improved treatment options.  The goal is to continue to expand the NMVB and improve its ability to be a resource for both biomedical researchers and the clinical science community focused on malignant mesothelioma research.