This Optional Function Application directly addresses a major goal of the UMCCTS, specifically, to accelerate the translation of basic discoveries into efficient solutions that improve human health. We will capitalize on UMass’ international reputation as a hub for noncoding RNA investigation and discovery to establish an Integrative Biomarker Center (InBioC), that builds onto existing UMCCTS infrastructure by providing a resource that enhances clinical research, enriches biomarker innovation, facilitates novel discovery, and builds bridges throughout the broader UMass community. We expect that the expansion of novel, innovative, and accessible biomarkers to a wider audience will enhance discoveries regarding human disease. Currently, the UMMS High-Throughput Gene Expression/Biomarker Laboratory provides rapid, cost-effective biomarker analyses and generates valuable data for a wide range of projects. Importantly, the lab is not static, and technologies utilized evolve to remain cutting edge and scientifically impactful. We have provided some of the largest data sets of noncoding RNAs in human populations and continue to develop novel tools in this area. Utilizing this expertise, we will build out the laboratory as a central hub that will provide education, as well as laboratory and virtual data to UMass investigators based on their scientific needs. To form these central “connections”, the Integrative Biomarker Center (InBioC), will link data and groups through: Aim 1: Advance the science of biomarker development. We will work with investigators to provide relevant and timely supportive data such as proteomics, RNA, and phenotypic information. InBioC will 1a. Continue development of cutting-edge platforms; 1b. Institute a “Seed Money” program to provide support for investigators to generate needed data for programs, grants, and projects (discussed above); 1c. Provide education regarding the data generated and technologies used, as well as in-laboratory internships for junior investigators; and 1d. Create a virtual data repository that will allow data sharing and/or reanalysis. Aim 2: Facilitate the use of biomarkers to understand disease and develop new therapies: This will be accomplished by: 2a. Close collaboration with UMCCTS Informatics Component and UMCCTS BERD to support and assist with target analyses and network development based on new and available data sets. This will ensure proper and productive interpretation of often complex information; 2b. Close collaboration with biomarker development, specifically with the UMCCTS Tissue Core and Biorepository, which will serve as a source of biomaterials for investigators; and 2c. Outreach and close collaboration with the community, the Science Participation Research Center (SPRC), and the 5 UMass Campuses.