How genes and DNA changes affect lung cancer risk in people who used to smoke
Genetic and epigenetic risk markers for lung cancer in former smokers
This project looks at whether inherited genes and changes to DNA (epigenetics) help explain why former smokers still get lung cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11180279 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team compares genetic, epigenetic (DNA methylation), and biochemical markers from blood and other samples in former smokers to find signals linked to later lung cancer. They will study people from multiple racial and ethnic groups and compare marker levels with smoking history, screening results, and cancer outcomes, including those who quit more than 15 years ago and light smokers. The work uses low-dose CT screening data, blood leukocyte methylation measures, and known smoking-related genes to build more accurate risk profiles. The aim is to find markers that could point to former smokers at higher risk who are not currently covered by screening guidelines.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are former smokers—including long-term quitters and light smokers—especially from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds who can provide medical history and blood samples.
Not a fit: People who never smoked are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help identify former smokers who need earlier or extended lung cancer screening.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have linked genetic and epigenetic markers to lung cancer risk, but using these markers to expand screening beyond current guidelines remains relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Park, Sungshim Lani — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Park, Sungshim Lani
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 below.