Exploring how surgery affects the immune response and liver cancer spread

Surgery triggered immune response and liver metastases

NIH-funded research University of Virginia · NIH-11075861

This study is looking at how exercise before surgery can help people with colorectal cancer that has spread to the liver by boosting their immune system and reducing inflammation, which might lead to better recovery and lower chances of cancer coming back.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Virginia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlottesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11075861 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of pre-operative exercise therapy on patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer with liver metastases. It aims to understand how exercise can modify the immune response and reduce inflammation, potentially improving surgical outcomes. By analyzing changes in immune cell behavior and function, the study seeks to identify mechanisms that could prevent cancer recurrence after surgery. Patients may be involved in exercise programs designed to enhance their recovery and overall health before surgery.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are colorectal cancer patients scheduled for surgery, particularly those with liver metastases.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgery or those with non-colorectal cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved surgical outcomes and reduced recurrence of liver metastases in colorectal cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that pre-operative exercise can positively influence surgical outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective in this context as well.

Where this research is happening

Charlottesville, 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 metastasiscancer microenvironment
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.