How gut bacteria changes after weight loss surgery may affect colorectal cancer risk

Gut microbiota-related mechanisms that impact colorectal cancer risk after bariatric surgery

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10923948

This study is looking at how changes in the bacteria in your gut after weight loss surgery might affect your chances of getting colorectal cancer, and it’s for people who have had or are considering bariatric surgery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10923948 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between gut microbiota changes following bariatric surgery and the risk of developing colorectal cancer. By analyzing blood and stool samples from patients over time, the study aims to understand how weight loss and changes in gut bacteria can influence cancer risk. The research will focus on both beneficial and harmful bacteria, as well as bile acids, to determine their roles in cancer development after surgery. Patients will be monitored for various health indicators, including diet and medication use, to gather comprehensive data on these interactions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are planning to undergo or have recently undergone bariatric surgery.

Not a fit: Patients who have not had bariatric surgery or those with pre-existing colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for reducing colorectal cancer risk in patients who undergo bariatric surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in various health conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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.
Conditions Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
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.