Exploring how colon cancer cells use iron to grow and survive

Understanding the mechanisms of iron addiction in colon cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-10977334

This study is looking at how iron affects the growth of colon cancer and aims to find new ways to treat it by understanding how cancer cells use iron to thrive, so it’s for anyone interested in better treatments for colon cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10977334 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of iron in the growth and progression of colon cancer. It focuses on understanding how colon cancer cells accumulate high levels of iron and how this accumulation supports their proliferation and survival. By examining the metabolic pathways involved, the researchers aim to identify potential therapeutic targets that could lead to new treatments. The study involves both genetic and dietary approaches to manipulate iron levels in cancer cells to observe the effects on tumor growth.

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 iron-based therapies that improve treatment outcomes for patients with colon cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach could be effective, although the specific focus on iron in colon cancer is relatively novel.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Cell Growth, Cancers

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.