# Human Tumor Atlas Network: Data Coordinating Center Supplement

> **NIH NIH U24** · DANA-FARBER CANCER INST · 2020 · $926,364

## Abstract

This proposal is a collaboration with the HTAN Data Coordination Center DCC and describes an
Image Data Project aimed at developing and deploying the technology needed for storage,
distribution and basic analysis of cell and tissue images collected by multiple HTAN Centers.
Multiplexed tissue images are an important type of data for nearly all of the centers contributing
to the HTAN (second only to single cell sequencing data in number of centers collecting data).
However, the software needed to visualize, analyze, manage, and share multiplexed images of
tissues and tumors is underdeveloped. The initial availability of SARDANA images has
highlighted the challenges faced by HTAN, including the DCC, in deploying an infrastructure for
distributing large and complex images. We therefore propose a two-year HTAN Image Data
Project (IDP) led by the DCC and HMS PCA focused on the rapid development and deployment
of image informatic systems and computational resources for image management and analysis.
Our goal is to put in place a functional first-generation system no later than summer 2020 and to
then steadily refine the system so that it becomes the backbone of cross-functional HTAN
atlases. As a matter of necessity, we will start with informatic systems and software that are
either available today or in a relatively advanced state of development. However, we expect to
evaluate these choices throughout the IDP and change course as necessary to incorporate
potentially superior approaches. We will also support the diverse needs and formats of centers
using different data collection methods. Aim 1 will focus on the deployment and progressive
improvement of a cloud-based database for image management based on the OMERO
standard as well as a parallel system for access to primary data. Aim 2 will develop and deploy
software for visualizing HTAN image data by the general public. The IDP will use the existing
MCWG and DAWG mechanisms for oversight and reporting, and all centers will be invited to
participate. Within IDP, the HMS PCA will take primary responsibility for initial deployment of
image informatics software. The DCC and HMS will jointly undertake software development and
code hardening, and the DCC will take the lead in user assistance and software deployment,
particularly in year two.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10206514
- **Project number:** 3U24CA233243-01S1
- **Recipient organization:** DANA-FARBER CANCER INST
- **Principal Investigator:** Ethan Cerami
- **Activity code:** U24 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $926,364
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2018-09-30 → 2023-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10206514

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10206514, Human Tumor Atlas Network: Data Coordinating Center Supplement (3U24CA233243-01S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-27 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10206514. Licensed CC0.

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