Research Project
9916575
ADMINISTRATIVE CORE: SUMMARY/ABSTRACT The overall objective of the proposed University of Mississippi (UM) Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center (BDSRC) is to generate the necessary information that will provide the scientific rationale to optimize the design of future human intervention studies to evaluate the use of Spirulina-derived oral supplements in promoting antiviral resilience. To help achieve this goal the Administrative Core will oversee and coordinate research efforts among the UM BDSRC components ? a Botanical Core and two research projects. The Program Director and leader of the Administrative Core, Dr. Ikhlas Khan, is an internationally recognized expert in the field of natural products and brings two decades of experience successfully managing multi- faceted botanical research programs. Serving as Associate Director of both the UM BDSRC and the Administrative Core will be Dr. Nirmal Pugh. Dr. Pugh has a strong background in the biological evaluation of immune-enhancing botanicals, with an emphasis on Spirulina, and has well-established, collaborative relationships with the leader of the Botanical Core and the principal investigators of the two research projects. Our first aim is to implement a flexible and responsive governance structure to manage, coordinate and supervise all UM BDSRC activities, monitor progress through well-defined milestones, and realign UM BDSRC resources as needed to best meet the needs of its investigators. Expected outcomes include (1) commencement of monthly meetings of the Internal Steering Committee; (2) establishment of an External Advisory Committee; (3) compliance with policies and regulations; and (4) oversight of progress and establishment of clear lines of authority and responsibility within the UM BDSRC. Our second aim is to promote communication, collaboration, and dissemination of UM BDSRC research and findings. Expected outcomes include (1) development and timely updates of a website dedicated to the UM BDSRC, and (2) exploration of possible collaborations with other BDSRCs and CARBON components. Our third aim is to provide an environment suitable for training opportunities and oversee career development initiatives for post-doctoral fellows and graduate students. Expected outcomes include establishing competitive fellowships and participation in conferences/training courses within the UM BDSRC.
