Biomarkers of lung cancer risk in former smokers
Carcinogenesis biomarkers in former smokers of the Multi Ethnic Cohort Study
This project tests whether specific chemical breakdown products and DNA changes in former smokers can signal who still has a higher chance of developing lung cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11180297 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would breathe very small, labeled versions of common inhaled compounds and then provide urine and simple mouth and blood samples. Researchers will measure labeled breakdown products in urine that come from polluted air and from inflammation in the lungs, and will measure DNA damage markers in oral cells and white blood cells. The team will compare results from former smokers with never smokers to see if former smokers carry lasting chemical signs that may explain their higher lung cancer risk. Findings aim to point to measurable signals that could be followed over time.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are former smokers willing to attend clinic visits, inhale small labeled tracers, and provide urine, oral cell, and blood samples, typically recruited through the Multiethnic Cohort or similar outreach.
Not a fit: People with active lung cancer, current heavy smokers, or those unable to inhale tracers or provide samples would likely not be eligible or benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to tests that identify former smokers at higher risk so they can get closer monitoring or prevention efforts.
How similar studies have performed: Related biomarker research exists, but using inhaled labeled tracers combined with urine and DNA adduct measures specifically in former smokers is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hecht, Stephen S — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Hecht, Stephen S
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 below.