Related NCI Initiatives

FDA/NCI Interagency Oncology Task Force (IOTF)

The FDA/NCI Interagency Oncology Task Force (IOTF) was formed in May 2003, as a multi-part interagency effort to enhance the efficiency of clinical research and the scientific evaluation of new cancer medications. The goal of the IOTF is to leverage the expertise and capabilities of both agencies for the purpose of streamlining and accelerating the overall development of diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic interventions for cancer.

Under this effort, the two agencies share knowledge and resources to facilitate the development of new cancer drugs and speed their delivery to patients. Theresa Mullin, Ph.D., Assistant Commissioner, Office of Planning, Office of Policy and Planning, FDA, and Anna Barker, Ph.D., Deputy Director for Strategic Scientific Initiatives, Office of the Director, NCI, serve as the Co-Chairs for the IOTF.

Since its formation, the membership of IOTF has collaboratively undertaken an analysis of the overall process for new oncology drugs and devices and identified several specific initiatives that are directed toward optimizing new oncology products development. The NCI is working to specifically gather and synthesize the scientific support needed by the FDA to address specific regulatory issues. The IOTF works through a series of issue-specific subcommittees.

For more information on the FDA/NCI Interagency Oncology Task Force (IOTF), http://www.cancer.gov/newscenter/pressreleases/NciFdaCollab