MIT Center for Cancer Research

The MIT Center for Cancer Research (CCR) was founded in 1974, and is one of eight National Cancer Institute-designated basic research centers. Our mission is to apply the tools of basic science and technology to determine how cancer is caused, progresses and responds to treatment. Through this effort we have developed an increasingly complete understanding of the nature of cancer cells, which as led directly to improved treatments for the disease. Molecules identified by CCR research teams were used as targets for two of the first few FDA-approved cancer-fighting drugs produced by molecular medicine (approved by the FDA in 1998 and 2001). Today, the Center for Cancer Research continues to generate critical new insights into the basic mechanisms of cancer that are essential for advancing diagnosis and treatment of cancer. We remain committed to our founding vision that we can conquer cancer through research and technology.