National Center for Research Resources

National Center for Research Resources (NCRR) was a center within the National Institutes of Health (NIH), an agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services. The NCRR provided funding and support for biomedical research and research infrastructure across the United States. It played a crucial role in advancing medical research and innovation by supporting a wide range of resources, including biomedical technology, comparative medicine, and clinical research.

History

The NCRR was established to enhance the capability of the NIH to support research that spans across various disciplines and sectors, facilitating the translation of basic research into clinical practice. Over the years, it funded numerous programs and facilities that significantly contributed to the advancement of medical science and health care.

Mission and Programs

The mission of the NCRR was to support research that led to the improvement of human health, to foster resource sharing, and to promote collaborations among researchers. The center achieved its mission through a variety of programs and initiatives designed to build and support the infrastructure necessary for high-quality biomedical research. Key programs included:

• Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA): This program aimed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of clinical research and to speed the translation of discoveries into patient care.
• Biomedical Technology Research Centers (BTRCs): These centers provided access to advanced technologies, methodologies, and expertise to a wide range of biomedical researchers.
• Comparative Medicine: This area focused on the study of disease processes across different species, including humans, to improve the understanding of biology and disease mechanisms.
• Research Centers in Minority Institutions (RCMI): The RCMI program aimed to enhance the capacity for high-quality biomedical research in minority institutions and to increase the participation of underrepresented groups in biomedical research.

Impact

The NCRR's support for research infrastructure and resources had a profound impact on the biomedical research community. By fostering collaboration and providing access to state-of-the-art technologies and facilities, the NCRR helped to accelerate scientific discoveries and their translation into clinical applications. Its programs not only advanced the frontiers of medical research but also trained the next generation of scientists and clinicians.

Transition

In 2011, as part of a broader NIH reorganization to enhance efficiency and to streamline operations, the NCRR was dissolved. Its programs and initiatives were integrated into other parts of the NIH, including the establishment of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS). This transition was designed to further enhance the translation of basic research into tangible benefits for patient care and public health.

Legacy

The legacy of the NCRR lives on through the continued success of its programs and the ongoing work of the NIH in supporting biomedical research and infrastructure. The center's efforts have laid a strong foundation for future innovations in medical research and health care delivery.