Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research

The FNLCR Campus at Fort Detrick U.S. Army Installation in Frederick, Maryland

Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research (FNL) is a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) dedicated to cancer research and development. It is located in Frederick, Maryland, USA, and operates under the auspices of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The laboratory's mission is to accelerate the discovery and innovation in cancer research and to develop new technologies to improve the health of the public.

History

The Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research was established in 1972, following the National Cancer Act of 1971, which significantly expanded the scope and funding for cancer research in the United States. The facility was initially created to house large-scale research projects and advanced technological resources that were beyond the capacity of individual academic institutions or private industry.

Research and Development

The research at FNL encompasses a broad range of cancer-related areas, including but not limited to, genomics, proteomics, imaging, nanotechnology, and bioinformatics. The laboratory is known for its collaborative approach, working closely with other research institutions, universities, and industry partners to advance cancer research and treatment.

One of the notable projects includes the management of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), a landmark cancer genomics program that has significantly advanced our understanding of the molecular basis of cancer. Additionally, FNL houses several national resources for the scientific community, such as the RAS Initiative, focused on understanding and targeting the RAS family of oncogenes, which are mutated in a significant portion of cancers.

Facilities and Resources

FNL boasts state-of-the-art facilities and resources that are critical for cutting-edge cancer research. These include high-throughput genomics laboratories, advanced imaging centers, and high-performance computing resources. The laboratory also provides access to unique biological specimens and cancer models that are invaluable for research and development.

Collaborations and Partnerships

Collaboration is a cornerstone of the FNL's approach to cancer research. The laboratory partners with a wide range of stakeholders, including academic institutions, government agencies, and the private sector, to foster innovation and accelerate the translation of discoveries into treatments. Through these partnerships, FNL aims to leverage the collective expertise and resources to tackle the most pressing challenges in cancer research.

Education and Training

In addition to its research and development activities, the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research is committed to education and training the next generation of scientists and researchers. The laboratory offers various programs, internships, and fellowships designed to provide hands-on experience in biomedical research and to foster a deep understanding of the scientific and clinical aspects of cancer research.

Conclusion

The Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research plays a pivotal role in the national and international cancer research landscape. Through its comprehensive research programs, advanced facilities, and collaborative initiatives, FNL is at the forefront of efforts to understand, diagnose, and treat cancer more effectively. As cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, the work of FNL and its partners is more critical than ever in the quest to save lives and improve the quality of life for those affected by this disease.