[Functional research structures and the efficiency of science management in oncology]

The paper discusses feasibility of assessment of the state of the art in research in oncology using information technology and computed functional research structures. This structure allows to identify polar areas of interest, viz. active and passive research. Neutral directions of research serve to exchange information between the two polar areas. This approach allows quantitative evaluation of the importance of the research areas and their interrelationship and offers advantage over expert assessment methods. A critical area of research-genetic peculiarities of the malignant cell (tumor genetics)-is identified. The comparative data on the costs involved in analysis of planned research programs using experts and information technology are discussed.