Coffee-derived metabolites that may boost survival after colorectal cancer
Official title: Coffee and metabolites modulating the gut microbiome for improved colorectal cancer survival
Funded at Harvard University D/b/a Harvard School of Public Health · NIH-11374108 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A biomarker-based trial will explore whether compounds from coffee and gut bacteria can improve outcomes for adults with colorectal cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University D/b/a Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | June 2, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $664,676 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA263776-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11374108 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults 21 years or older with colorectal cancer who are receiving standard treatments and willing to participate in biomarker testing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not drink coffee or cannot tolerate dietary components may not benefit from this specific approach.
What this research studies
This study tests if specific coffee-derived metabolites, shaped by the gut microbiome, are linked to better survival for adults with colorectal cancer. It will recruit participants and use a placebo-controlled design to see if these metabolites influence cancer progression and inflammation. The researchers will measure biomarkers in blood and tissue to understand mechanisms and potential benefits. If the approach works, it could guide dietary or microbiome-based strategies to support conventional cancer therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could lead to dietary or microbial strategies that improve survival for people living with colorectal cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Observational data have suggested coffee-related associations with better outcomes, and this trial aims to test causality through a controlled design.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard University D/b/a Harvard School of Public Health
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Song, Mingyang — Harvard University D/b/a Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Song, Mingyang
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Coffee and Gut Health for Colorectal Cancer Patients
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This study is looking at how following a Mediterranean diet and losing weight can help lower the risk of colorectal cancer, especially for African Americans who are more at risk, by improving gut health and reducing harmful bacteria.
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Improving colorectal cancer screening and follow-up care.
This study is working to help more people get screened for colorectal cancer and receive the follow-up care they need, especially those who haven't been screened much before, so that everyone can have better access to important health checks and improve their overall health.
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.