# I-Corps: Translation Potential of a Precision Biomarker and Therapeutics for Advanced Cancers

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Maryland Eastern Shore (MD) · $50,000

## Abstract

This I-Corps project focuses on the development of a technology for cancer diagnosis and therapy. Cancer remains the second leading cause of deaths in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 618,120 people are projected to die from cancer in in 2025. There is an urgent need for more accurate diagnostic tools and more effective therapies for this devastating disease. This technology aims to help physicians accurately detect cancer diseases and to make informed treatment decisions. It also enables oncologists to manage patients more efficiently, ultimately improving quality of life.

This I-Corps project utilizes experiential learning coupled with a first-hand investigation of the industry ecosystem to assess the translation potential of the technology. This solution is based on the development of a PI3Kδ-based cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy. The protein PI3Kδ is overexpressed in a wide range of cancers, including both solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. In particular, upregulation of PI3Kδ splice isoforms has been associated with increased tumor aggressiveness and drug resistance. This technology provides a solution for clinicians and researchers to detect the cancer disease at the molecular level and more accurately predict clinical outcomes for the patients. Moreover, PI3Kδ-based therapeutic agents - used as single agents or in combination with other FDA-approved chemotherapeutic, immunotherapeutic, and hormonal drugs - ha

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2450154
- **Awardee organization:** University of Maryland Eastern Shore (MD)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** LNUBJQ26R2M5
- **PI:** Bi-Dar Wang
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** INSTRUMENTATION & DIAGNOSTICS
- **Estimated total:** $50,000
- **Funds obligated:** $50,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2450154

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2450154, I-Corps: Translation Potential of a Precision Biomarker and Therapeutics for Advanced Cancers. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2450154. Licensed CC0.

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