Analyzing chromatin to improve colon cancer screening
Official title: Optical hyperspectral nanoscale chromatin analysis for colon cancer risk-stratification
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11048418 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new, easy, and affordable test to help find early signs of dangerous growths in the colon that can lead to cancer, making it simpler for patients to get checked without needing a traditional colonoscopy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $670,534 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA289294-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11048418 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over the age of 45 who are at risk for colorectal cancer and may benefit from enhanced screening methods.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already been diagnosed with colorectal cancer or those who do not meet the age criteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a new screening test that can identify patients at risk for advanced adenomas, which are precursors to colorectal cancer. By utilizing advanced optical hyperspectral technology and artificial intelligence, the study seeks to detect nanoscale changes in chromatin that indicate the presence of these dangerous polyps. The goal is to create a low-cost, accurate test that can be performed in primary care settings, making it easier for patients to get the necessary screenings without the barriers associated with traditional colonoscopy. This innovative approach could significantly enhance early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more accessible and effective method for identifying individuals at high risk for colorectal cancer, potentially saving lives through earlier intervention.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant interest in colorectal cancer screening, this specific approach using AI-enhanced optical technology for nanoscale chromatin analysis is novel and has not been widely tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Backman, Vadim — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Backman, Vadim
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Colon Cancer Family Registry Cohort study for smarter prevention and care
A large international group is following thousands of people with colorectal cancer and their relatives to better understand risk, causes, and outcomes so future patients can get better guidance and treatment.
-
Bioengineered Networking Microbes for Targeted Colon Cancer Therapy
A project tests a engineered bacteria-based therapy designed to target colon tumors and boost the body’s immune response in people with colon cancer.
-
How DNA methylation patterns are kept in colon cancer and what happens when they’re disrupted
Researchers are studying how the molecular marks that control gene activity are maintained in colon cancer and how breaking these marks affects cancer growth and treatment response.
-
Adaptive aerobic exercise plans during chemotherapy for colon cancer
This study tests personalized aerobic exercise during chemotherapy for people with colon cancer to help them stay on their planned treatment schedule and reduce side effects.
-
Immune regulation in colon cancer and its spread to lymph nodes and liver
A patient-friendly look at how immune system circuits in colorectal cancer and its metastases may influence treatment responses and outcomes.
-
Biomarker discovery in colon cancer with advanced metabolomics
A new project will use advanced chemical analysis to find blood- and tissue-based markers that indicate colon cancer and its progression.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.