How bile acids affect gut immune cells in colorectal cancer

The regulation of gut macrophage’s function by the bile acid receptor FXR

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11075199

This study is looking at how bile acids affect immune cells in the gut and how this might relate to the development of colorectal cancer in people with inflammatory bowel disease, with the goal of finding better ways to detect and treat these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11075199 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of bile acids and their receptor, FXR, in regulating the function of gut macrophages, which are important immune cells in the intestines. It focuses on understanding how these macrophages respond to bile acids and how this interaction may influence the progression of colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC). By studying the mechanisms involved, the research aims to improve early detection and treatment strategies for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) who are at risk for CAC.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with inflammatory bowel disease, particularly those with ulcerative colitis, who are at risk for developing colorectal cancer.

Not a fit: Patients without inflammatory bowel disease or those who do not have a history of colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for early detection and treatment of colorectal cancer in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of bile acids in gut health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights into colorectal cancer.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.
Conditions anti-canceranti-cancer therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.