Exploring how gut microbes affect cancer risk in obese individuals.

Determining the contribution of microbial-derived metabolites to protective immunity in obesity-driven cancer risk.

['FUNDING_U01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE HEALTH SCI CTR · NIH-10920381

This study is looking at how being overweight might change the bacteria in our gut and how that could affect our immune system's ability to fight cancer, especially in people from the African American community in Memphis, including those who are getting weight loss surgery.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE HEALTH SCI CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10920381 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the link between obesity, gut microbes, and cancer risk by examining how microbial-derived metabolites influence the immune system's ability to protect against cancer. The study will involve diverse human subjects, including those with varying levels of obesity and individuals undergoing bariatric surgery, to understand how obesity alters immune responses. By analyzing these interactions, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to increased cancer risk in obese populations, particularly focusing on the African American community in Memphis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include obese individuals, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, including African Americans, and patients preparing for bariatric surgery.

Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or do not have a significant risk of cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for reducing cancer risk in obese individuals by targeting gut microbiota and immune function.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in health and disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

MEMPHIS, 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.