Dissecting the role of germline ATM loss in the evolution of aggressive localized prostate cancer

The Defense Health Agency (DHA) awarded The University of Manchester $326,993 under the Military Medical Research and Development program (CFDA 12.420) for a two-year project running from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2027. The project, titled "Dissecting the Role of Germline ATM Loss in the Evolution of Aggressive Localized Prostate Cancer," focuses on advancing understanding of prostate cancer genetics through translational research. This award supports hypothesis-driven biomedical research aimed at identifying genetic factors and molecular mechanisms that contribute to aggressive prostate cancer development, with potential applications to inform diagnostic and therapeutic approaches relevant to military and civilian populations.

The research will be conducted at The University of Manchester's Research Office in the United Kingdom, leveraging the institution's substantial capabilities in genomic analysis and cancer biology. As a research-intensive institution with demonstrated experience in federal biomedical research projects, the university will apply advanced scientific methodologies to investigate the genetic basis of prostate cancer progression. This award aligns with the DHA's broader portfolio of cancer research initiatives under the Military Medical Research and Development program, which supports transformative healthcare research addressing critical health challenges.