How KRAS mutations influence fat cell development to worsen colorectal cancer
Official title: Oncogenic Kras drives stromal adipogenesis to promote colorectal cancer (CRC) progression
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11199641 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the KRAS gene help colorectal cancer grow and spread by encouraging fat cells to form around the tumor, with the goal of finding new ways to treat patients with advanced colorectal cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $98,998 |
| NIH project number | 5K00CA274661-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11199641 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer, particularly those with KRAS mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with localized colorectal cancer or those without KRAS mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how mutations in the KRAS gene contribute to the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) by promoting the development of fat cells in the tumor environment. The study uses a specialized mouse model to explore the mechanisms by which KRAS mutations drive cancer metastasis and suppress the body's immune response against tumors. By understanding these processes, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets that could improve treatment options for patients with advanced CRC.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better target metastatic colorectal cancer and improve patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting KRAS mutations and related pathways, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hsu, Wen-Hao — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Hsu, Wen-Hao
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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.