NEOMED and Stokes VA to help veterans
Staff report
ROOTSTOWN
Northeast Ohio Medical University and the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center have signed a memorandum of understanding that will help both institutions improve the health status of veterans through an established research affiliation.
The memorandum outlines a plan for coordination and collaboration on projects of mutual interest that support their respective research missions.
“The signing of this memorandum of understanding marks an important milestone in furthering the development of Northeast Ohio Medical University’s research enterprise,” said Walter E. Horton Jr., vice president for research and dean of the College of Graduate Studies at NEOMED. “This partnership has opened the door to a myriad of opportunities that will further enhance the health and well-being of those who have served our country through innovative research.”
A driving force behind the establishment of the agreement is the leadership and research of Min You, chairman of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, professor of pharmaceutical sciences and associate dean for research in the College of Pharmacy at NEOMED. Dr. You’s prior relationship with the Department of Veterans Affairs and renowned research on alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) played a pivotal role in cultivating a partnership with the Cleveland VAMC.
“I’m thrilled that Dr. You’s research is leading the way on this new collaborative research venture,” said Charles Taylor, dean of the College of Pharmacy at NEOMED. “We believe that sharing resources will draw on the strengths and expertise of the two organizations while accelerating medical discoveries, and Dr. You’s initiatives will lay the groundwork for future collaborative efforts.”
Dr. You’s research, which examines the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of alcoholic fatty liver, has earned her extensive funding from the National Institutes of Health.
This common form of liver disease affects a number of veterans each year, specifically in its early stages of cirrhosis and alcoholic hepatitis, making AFLD a major concern for veterans’ health.
The memorandum will enable joint appointment of senior investigators by both institutions.