How diet and a specific enzyme affect colorectal cancer

Investigating the Role of Diet and ACSS2 in Metabolic and Epigenetic Regulation of Colorectal Cancer

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10902636

This study is looking at how what you eat, especially sugar from fruits and fiber, might affect the growth of colorectal cancer, and it aims to find out if changing your diet could help lower your cancer risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10902636 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of dietary factors, particularly fructose and fiber, on colorectal cancer (CRC) progression. It focuses on how these dietary components influence metabolic processes and epigenetic changes through a key enzyme called ACSS2, which converts acetate to acetyl-CoA. By understanding the interplay between diet and metabolism, the research aims to identify potential dietary interventions that could reduce cancer risk. Patients may be involved in dietary assessments and interventions to evaluate their effects on cancer progression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are individuals at risk for colorectal cancer, including those with a family history or other predisposing factors.

Not a fit: Patients who have already been diagnosed with advanced colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that significantly lower the risk of colorectal cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in dietary interventions for cancer prevention, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

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.