Exploring the link between oral health and colorectal cancer
Official title: The oral-gut axis in colorectal cancer
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11042851 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $580,822 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA288546-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042851 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of periodontal disease or those at risk for colorectal cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any oral health issues or those not at risk for colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kamada, Nobuhiko — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Kamada, Nobuhiko
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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.