Project Summary The key for the Early Detection Research Network (EDRN)'s success lies in good communication among scientists in multiple disciplines; efficient evaluation and prioritization of promising biomarkers; and rigorous validation studies to demonstrate their clinical utility. The overall aims of the proposed renewal of the Data Management and Coordinating Center (DMCC) are to (i) provide coordination of EDRN in order to enhance communication and collaboration among EDRN investigators and with general scientific communities; (ii) coordinate EDRN validation studies and provide leadership in data science; (iii) disseminate cancer biomarker information to broader scientific communities and the public; and (iv) manage the EDRN Core funds. Under the direction of the EDRN Steering Committee, the DMCC will 1) perform network coordination and outreach and promote collaborations among scientific investigators by providing support for EDRN meetings and workshops, developing and maintaining EDRN secure websites and listservs, producing and maintaining all EDRN documents, and maintaining the online review system for applications submitted to the EDRN; 2) support EDRN validation studies by developing and maintaining validation study data management systems; working with EDRN investigators on study design, protocol development, data forms, and study manuals; coordinating and monitoring studies; tracking specimens; and performing QA/QC and study evaluation; and provide and promote best statistical and computational practices to EDRN studies; 3) work with the NCI and JPL to provide informatics resources for the EDRN Secure Web site for data security, data warehousing, and data sharing, and a Public Web site for dissemination; and 4) work closely with the EDRN SC and the NCI Project Coordinator and Fred Hutch OSR to timely activate the core funds after the EDRN SC approval and ensure the compliance of all regulatory requirements for sub-award management.

Project Narrative The proposed study is highly relevant to public health because early detection has great potential to reduce cancer burden. Rigorous evaluation of biomarker tests for their clinical utility is imperative for public health.