How a gut bacterium's molecule colibactin can damage DNA and promote colon cancer
Structural and functional studies of colibactin
Scientists are figuring out how a chemical made by some gut bacteria damages DNA and might raise colorectal cancer risk so future tests or treatments can be developed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11285443 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
They will work to determine the exact chemical structure of colibactin and how its parts react with DNA. In the lab the team combines chemical synthesis, stable isotope labeling, mass spectrometry, CRISPR genetics, and enzymology to trace the molecule and measure DNA cross-links and damage. The research builds on prior work that partially reconstructed colibactin and will test alternative structural forms and mechanisms. Understanding the molecule could point to ways to detect or block harmful bacteria before they cause mutations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with colorectal cancer, those with a family history of colon cancer, or individuals worried about colon cancer risk are the populations most likely to be relevant to future clinical applications of this work.
Not a fit: People without colon-related conditions or those affected by unrelated diseases are unlikely to see direct benefits from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to tests that identify harmful colibactin-producing bacteria or strategies to prevent the DNA damage that increases colorectal cancer risk.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory and animal studies have linked colibactin-producing E. coli to colon tumors and the team has partially defined the molecule, but fully confirming its structure and actions is still novel and challenging.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Herzon, Seth B. — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Herzon, Seth B.
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.