Finding microbial genes that affect cancer and immune diseases
Computational methods for discovery of disease-modulating microbial genes
['FUNDING_R01'] · WISTAR INSTITUTE · NIH-11305305
We are building computer tools to find microbial genes in gut and tissue samples that relate to cancer and immune diseases to help improve diagnosis and treatment for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WISTAR INSTITUTE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11305305 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We will use large-scale sequencing data from diseased tissues and stool to look for microbial genes that are active in people with cancer and immune disorders. The team will create new computer methods to detect microbial gene expression from RNA sequencing and to measure gut microbial gene capacity from metagenomic data. Results will be organized into a searchable database linking microbial genes, proteins, or peptides to specific human conditions. Over time the findings could point to new biomarkers for diagnosis or targets for therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are people with cancer or immune-related conditions who can donate tissue or stool samples or agree to have their sequencing data analyzed.
Not a fit: People without the targeted diseases or those who do not provide samples or data are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal microbial gene markers and targets that lead to better diagnosis, prognosis, and new treatment options for people with cancer and immune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier studies have linked microbes or microbial genes to disease outcomes, but comprehensive computational detection and quantification of microbial genes in human tissues is a newer approach with limited prior clinical translation.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- WISTAR INSTITUTE — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: AUSLANDER, NOAM — WISTAR INSTITUTE
- Study coordinator: AUSLANDER, NOAM
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 below.
Conditions: Cancers