How aging affects intestinal cells and the role of aspirin in cancer prevention.

Effects of inflammaging on intestinal epithelial cells and aspirin chemoprevention.

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11092765

This study is looking at how aging affects the cells in our intestines and how that might change the way older adults respond to low-dose aspirin in preventing colorectal cancer, so we can better understand how to help keep everyone healthy as they age.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11092765 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how aging, specifically a process called 'inflammaging', impacts the cells in the intestines and their response to low-dose aspirin (LDA) in preventing colorectal cancer. The study aims to understand why older adults may not benefit from LDA as younger individuals do, focusing on the changes in intestinal stem cells that occur with age. By examining these cellular changes, the research seeks to clarify the effectiveness of aspirin in older populations and potentially improve cancer prevention strategies. Participants may contribute to understanding the relationship between age, inflammation, and cancer risk.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 65 and older who are interested in understanding their cancer risk and the effects of aspirin.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those with specific contraindications to aspirin may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved guidelines for aspirin use in older adults, enhancing colorectal cancer prevention strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that low-dose aspirin can reduce colorectal cancer risk in younger populations, but this research is exploring untested aspects of its effectiveness in older adults.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.