NIH-funded research R21 grant

Exploring the hidden genetic factors that contribute to cancer risk

Official title: Leveraging the Hidden Genome to Recover the Missing Heritability of Cancer

Funded at Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research · NIH-10586348 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at unique genetic changes that might affect how cancer runs in families, and it aims to find new information that could help doctors better understand cancer risks and create more personalized treatment plans for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project startSeptember 5, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$455,111
NIH project number1R21CA270428-01A1
Project IDNIH-10586348 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of cancer or those diagnosed with cancer who are interested in understanding their genetic risk factors.

Less likely to help

Patients without a family history of cancer or those whose cancer is not believed to have a genetic component may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the unexplored genetic variations that may play a significant role in cancer heritability. By utilizing advanced sequencing technologies, the team aims to analyze large datasets to identify rare genetic variants that have been overlooked in previous studies. The methodology involves aggregating these variants to better understand their collective impact on cancer risk across different types. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved risk assessment and personalized treatment options based on their genetic profiles.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of cancer genetics, leading to better prevention and treatment strategies for patients.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in uncovering hidden genetic factors in various diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights in cancer as well.

Where this research is happening

  • Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
    New York, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Shen, Ronglai — Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
  • Study coordinator: Shen, Ronglai

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.