Exploring metabolic differences in African Americans with colorectal cancer
Official title: Identification of metabolic niches in African Americans with colorectal cancer
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11001570 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why African Americans have higher rates of dying from colorectal cancer compared to other groups, focusing on how differences in tumor behavior and gut bacteria might play a role, with the goal of finding ways to improve treatment for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $211,427 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA280372-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001570 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are African American individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients of other racial or ethnic backgrounds may not directly benefit from the findings of this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the reasons behind higher colorectal cancer mortality rates in African Americans compared to other racial groups. It focuses on understanding how tumor metabolism and microbiome differences contribute to these disparities. By analyzing metabolites—substances produced during metabolism—and their relationship with lifestyle factors and tumor characteristics, the study aims to uncover critical insights that could improve treatment outcomes. The research employs a discovery metabolomics approach to identify key metabolites that may influence cancer progression and response to therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies and outcomes for African American patients with colorectal cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding metabolic differences can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Caroline Helen — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Caroline Helen
Related research
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.