The Center for Protease Research, an NIH/NIGMS/COBRE supported center, has broad-based research programs to provide fundamental information on how proteases, key biological players, impact several diseases. The biological role played by matrix metalloproteinases and histone deacetylases in cancer, arthritis, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and asthma is being investigated. These studies have the potential to provide novel therapeutics that can treat these deadly and debilitating diseases. The Center for Protease Research currently has nine investigators from three different NDSU colleges. Two central Core Facilities in biology and synthesis established by the Center have had a significant impact on research programs in the university and throughout North Dakota. The Center has initiated several outreach activities such as workshops for North Dakota University System faculty and students and a summer research program for undergraduates.

Long-term goals for the Center are:

1. To carry out cutting edge research in biomedical science and foster growth of biomedical research in the state of North Dakota.
2. Bring the North Dakota research establishment to the point where it can have a significant impact on biomedical research effort in the nation.
3. Increase the availability of well-trained personnel with biomedical expertise for employment in the region and beyond.
4. Establish the Center as a resource for enabling biomedical research at NDSU and the state of North Dakota.