Genomic profiling of cancers in American Indian and Alaska Native communities
Genome Characterization Unit
The project sequences tumors and normal DNA from American Indian and Alaska Native people with cancer to find genetic changes that could explain worse outcomes and point to better screening or treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11191560 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will partner with tribal communities to respectfully collect tumor tissue, blood samples, and health information from American Indian and Alaska Native patients. The team will perform comprehensive genomic sequencing of tumors and germline DNA to identify mutations, mutation patterns, and signatures linked to environmental exposures. Results will be compared with existing cancer genome data to find differences in mutation types or frequencies that may be unique to AI/AN cancers. The goal is to translate discoveries into improved screening, prevention, and targeted therapies for AI/AN patients and communities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are American Indian or Alaska Native adults with a current or recent cancer diagnosis who can provide tumor tissue, a blood sample, and access to medical records.
Not a fit: People without cancer, those who are not AI/AN, or individuals unable or unwilling to provide tissue or medical records are unlikely to receive direct benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to earlier detection, tailored prevention, and more effective personalized treatments for American Indian and Alaska Native patients.
How similar studies have performed: Comprehensive tumor and germline sequencing has revealed clinically useful findings in other populations, but applying this approach specifically to AI/AN communities is relatively novel due to prior underrepresentation.
Where this research is happening
Albuquerque, United States
- University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr — Albuquerque, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Trent, Jeffrey M. — University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
- Study coordinator: Trent, Jeffrey M.
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.