Developing a special hydrogel to understand how the tumor environment affects colorectal cancer

A 4D-tunable hydrogel for the study of the impact of the tumor microenvironment on the development of colorectal cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-10856294

This study is working on a special gel that mimics the environment around tumors to better understand how colorectal cancer develops, which could help improve prevention and treatment for patients like you.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10856294 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a unique hydrogel that mimics the tumor microenvironment (TME) to investigate how changes in this environment contribute to the development of colorectal cancer. By using advanced biomaterials and 4D-tuning techniques, researchers aim to replicate the physical and chemical conditions that influence cancer initiation from adenomas or polyps. The project involves a collaborative team of experts in various fields, including materials science and oncology, to optimize this hydrogel for studying cancer progression. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the TME's role in colorectal cancer, potentially leading to improved prevention and treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for colorectal cancer, particularly those with adenomas or polyps.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced colorectal cancer or those not at risk for developing colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and new strategies for preventing and treating colorectal cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using biomaterials to study cancer environments, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.