Exploring how colon cancer cells use iron for growth

Understanding the mechanisms of iron addiction in colon cancer

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10860973

This study is looking at how iron affects the growth of colon cancer cells and aims to find out how these cells manage to survive with too much iron, which could help develop new treatments for people with colon cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-10860973 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of iron in the growth and progression of colon cancer. It focuses on understanding how cancer cells accumulate high levels of iron and how this accumulation supports their survival and proliferation. The study aims to identify the mechanisms that allow colon cancer cells to thrive despite the toxic effects of excess iron, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies. By examining the metabolic pathways involved, the research seeks to uncover targets for iron-based treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with colon cancer, particularly those with advanced stages of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage colon cancer or those whose cancer is not influenced by iron metabolism may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that specifically target iron metabolism in colon cancer, improving treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.
Conditions Cancer Cell GrowthCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.