# Target Validation Core

> **NIH NIH P20** · UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER · 2021 · $171,057

## Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract: Target Validation Core (Core 3) 
With the explosion of new technologies, biomedical research has been moving at a very fast pace in 
generating novel links and suggesting promising therapeutic avenues. The research proposed in the MTDD 
COBRE application is expected to identify a number of exciting molecular targets. However, before further 
efforts and resources are devoted to these targets, it is crucial to have validation for physiological relevance 
and functional significance. With the common goal of achieving target validation, we propose to establish two 
key resources at UNMC, the Genome Editing facility and the Mouse Model and Imaging facility. Together, 
these facilities will comprise the Nebraska Center for Molecular Target Discovery and Development Target 
Validation Core. 
The newly developed genomic editing technology, CRISPR, allows researchers to examine the relevance of 
their target proteins or processes in a clean genetic background within a significantly shorter time frame. As 
we have accumulated extensive experience in the CRISPR technology, we propose to establish a core facility 
to provide the MTDD researchers with knockout or knockin cell lines for their genes of interest, thus allowing 
them to validate their findings in a reliable and efficient fashion. 
Another essential component of target validation is to determine the effect(s) of novel genetic, 
pharmacological, and environmental interventions on patient outcome. Mouse orthotopic xenograft models are 
ideal systems for the initial assessment of the impact of clinical interventions on disease outcome. To support 
the studies proposed in the MTDD COBRE application, we propose a core facility, which will focus on mouse 
models and feature state-of-art, advanced imaging capabilities to detect and monitor tumor development and 
progression non-invasively and effectively. Investigators with access to this core service will thus be better 
poised to understand the functional impact of specific genetic and pharmacologic interventions. Additional core 
strengths will include mouse metabolic assessment (by indirect calorimetry). 
The Core co-leaders have many years of experience in the field. Core staff are highly trained. We propose to 
ensure rigorous core quality at both an experimental (operator training and formalized equipment maintenance) 
and a systematic (input resulting from an annual external advisory board meeting) level. Together, the Target 
Validation Core is expected to provide the necessary technical input in target validation, and support MTDD 
investigators in achieving their goal of conducting high-impact research.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10117099
- **Project number:** 5P20GM121316-04
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER
- **Principal Investigator:** Xu Luo
- **Activity code:** P20 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $171,057
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2018-03-16 → 2023-02-28

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10117099

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10117099, Target Validation Core (5P20GM121316-04). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10117099. Licensed CC0.

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