How dietary taurine and gut bacteria interact to influence colorectal cancer development
Official title: Interaction between dietary taurine and microbiota sulfur metabolism in the development of colorectal cancer
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11024643 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how eating foods high in taurine, like energy drinks, might change certain gut bacteria and possibly increase the risk of colorectal cancer, especially in younger people, using mice to learn more about these effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $536,489 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA296643-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11024643 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 50 years old who consume high amounts of taurine-rich foods or supplements and are at risk for colorectal cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume taurine-rich diets or have no risk factors for colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between dietary taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, and specific gut bacteria, particularly Bilophila wadsworthia, in the context of colorectal cancer (CRC). It aims to understand how the consumption of taurine-rich foods, such as energy drinks, may affect gut microbiota and potentially increase the risk of CRC, especially in younger individuals. The study will utilize mouse models to explore how taurine influences the growth of Bilophila wadsworthia and its subsequent effects on cancer development. By identifying these interactions, the research seeks to provide insights into new prevention and treatment strategies for CRC.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary recommendations or interventions that help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated a link between diet, gut microbiota, and cancer risk, suggesting that this research builds on established findings rather than being entirely novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jobin, Christian — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Jobin, Christian
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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.