Exploring how bacteria in tumors affect cancer growth and diversity.

Defining the landscape of bacterial-colonized microniches in tumors and their role in intratumoral heterogeneity.

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR · NIH-10859933

This study is looking at how bacteria inside tumors might affect cancer growth and treatment outcomes, helping us understand how these tiny organisms could play a role in your cancer journey.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10859933 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of bacteria within tumors and how they interact with cancer cells. By analyzing the tumor microenvironment, the study aims to identify specific bacterial communities that may influence disease progression and patient outcomes. The researchers will utilize advanced microbiome analysis techniques to map the distribution of these bacteria and their potential impact on tumor behavior. This work could lead to a better understanding of how intratumoral bacteria contribute to cancer heterogeneity and treatment responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with various types of cancer who have tumors containing distinct bacterial populations.

Not a fit: Patients without tumors or those whose cancer does not involve significant bacterial colonization may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for cancer treatment by targeting bacterial communities within tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of the microbiome in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, 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.