UF researchers receive $150,000 for pediatric cancer studies

University of Florida Shands Cancer Center researchers received $150,000 in funding June 20, from STOP! Children's Cancer Inc., a local nonprofit organization dedicated to children's cancer prevention, control and cure.

Researchers Xingming Deng, M.D., Ph.D., Diaqing Liao, Ph.D., and Jianrong Lu, Ph.D., each received $50,000 for studies of pediatric leukemia and neuroblastoma, one of the most lethal tumors in children.

"Children are our future; however, children's cancers, like leukemia, are seriously threatening their lives today," Deng said. "If my research can develop a new approach to stop this disease, my work will be very significant."

In the past, the organization has donated grants that provide necessary seed money for scientists to begin research projects, enabling them to apply for more substantial national grants from institutions such as the National Institutes of Health.

"I'm proud STOP! Children's Cancer is continuing its mission of funding critical pediatric cancer research here in the heart of Florida," said W.J. Rossi, president of the organization's board of directors. "Our goal is to find cures for the cancers that attack our children and raise the quality of life for all who suffer from this devastating disease."