Exploring the link between oral health and colorectal cancer

The oral-gut axis in colorectal cancer

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11042851

This study is looking at how germs in your mouth might affect the risk of developing colorectal cancer, especially if you have gum disease, and it aims to find new ways to help prevent and treat this type of cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11042851 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how certain microbes in the mouth may influence the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). By studying the connection between oral inflammation, such as gum disease, and CRC, the researchers aim to identify specific oral microbes that contribute to cancer progression. They will use mouse models to explore how these microbes interact with the gut and potentially promote tumor growth. The ultimate goal is to find new ways to prevent and treat CRC by targeting these microbial pathways.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of periodontal disease or those at risk for colorectal cancer.

Not a fit: Patients without any oral health issues or those not at risk for colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative strategies for preventing and treating colorectal cancer by targeting harmful oral microbes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown a correlation between oral health and colorectal cancer risk, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.

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.
Conditions anti-cancer therapyCancer CauseCancer EtiologyCancer Modelcancer therapy
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.