From the Director

Dear Colleagues,

I am delighted to present our 2018 Research Annual Report, which reflects another year of outstanding scientific achievement by faculty in the Cincinnati Children’s Research Foundation. Spanning the spectrum of discovery—basic exploration of biological processes, translation of new knowledge to clinical practice, and improvement of community health—our attainments in 2018 have been particularly noteworthy.

Our seven premier scientific and clinical advances highlight the best of basic science: genetic control of autoimmunity (Nature Genetics); neurological mechanisms underlying manual dexterity (Science); and mechanisms of nerve tumors (Cancer Cell). Potential translation to childhood disease derives from studies showing that liver cells can switch types to form bile ducts (Nature), characterizing factors exacerbating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in mice (Nature Medicine), and identifying genetic associations linked to preterm birth (The New England Journal of Medicine). National clinical impact may be generated by an asthma improvement collaborative for Medicaid-insured pediatric patients (JAMA Pediatrics).

Our faculty logged another record year for grant funding, with a total surpassing $223 million for extramural grants and contracts—continued victory over a tough funding environment. As of FY17 (the last year for which data are available), Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center ranked second among children’s hospitals in number of R01 equivalent grants, number of fellowship grants, and number of NIH awards.

These attainments have been possible because our faculty exemplify all the benefits of team science within our walls and are highly sought collaborators with colleagues worldwide. The Research Foundation continues to grow and to invest in faculty success through internally funded grants (including more than $25 million in new funding opportunities and endowed chairs over the past three years) and superb research cores.

These investments and their corresponding achievements reflect the institution’s dedication to a highly collaborative, multi-disciplinary culture that continues its commitment to benefit children and their families for years to come.

Margaret K. Hostetter, MD
B.K. Rachford Professor
Chair, Department of Pediatrics
Director, Cincinnati Children’s Research Foundation
Chief Medical Officer