How gut bacteria affect immune responses in lung cancer with Kras mutations

Interplay between host microbiome and immunomodulatory responses in the pathogenesis of Kras mutant lung cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR · NIH-11012357

This study is looking at how changes in gut bacteria might affect the immune system in people with a specific type of lung cancer linked to smoking, and it hopes to find new ways to treat this cancer by understanding these changes better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11012357 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between gut microbiome changes and immune responses in patients with Kras mutant lung cancer, a type of lung adenocarcinoma commonly found in smokers. By using a genetically engineered mouse model that mimics human disease, the study examines how tobacco exposure alters gut bacteria and contributes to cancer progression. The researchers aim to identify specific microbial changes and inflammatory pathways that could be targeted for new treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are smokers diagnosed with Kras mutant lung adenocarcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients with lung cancer that does not involve Kras mutations or those who have never smoked may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies that improve outcomes for patients with Kras mutant lung cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the microbiome in cancer progression, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.