How caffeine affects melanoma growth

Influence of Caffeine on Melanoma

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11015887

This study is looking at how drinking caffeine might affect melanoma, a serious skin cancer, to see if it could help slow down the growth of cancer cells and improve treatment options for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11015887 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between caffeine consumption and melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. It explores how caffeine may influence melanoma cell growth and survival through its interaction with specific cellular receptors. By analyzing data from various populations and conducting experiments in mouse models, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which caffeine could potentially reduce melanoma risk and improve treatment outcomes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies involving caffeine or its derivatives.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for melanoma or those currently diagnosed with melanoma who consume caffeine regularly.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume caffeine or have no interest in dietary interventions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for melanoma patients that incorporate caffeine or target its biological pathways.

How similar studies have performed: Previous epidemiological studies have suggested a protective effect of caffeine against melanoma, indicating that this research builds on promising preliminary findings.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 2026-06-13 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.