How radiation affects immune cells and gut bacteria

Radiation Effect on Immune Cells and the Microbiome

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-10930025

This study is looking at how radiation therapy affects the immune system and gut bacteria in people with colorectal cancer, to help find better ways to improve treatment outcomes by understanding how these changes can help or hurt the body’s ability to fight cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10930025 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of radiation therapy on immune cells and the microbiome, particularly in the context of colorectal cancer. It aims to understand how radiation alters the behavior of cancer cells, normal tissues, and immune cells, and how these changes can impact treatment outcomes. By examining the balance between the beneficial immune responses triggered by radiation and the potential harm to immune cell function, the study seeks to improve therapeutic strategies. Patients may be involved in understanding how their immune systems respond to radiation and how this affects their cancer treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing radiation therapy for colorectal cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving radiation therapy or those with cancers other than colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved radiation therapy techniques that enhance immune response while minimizing damage to healthy cells.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the interplay between radiation therapy and immune responses, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
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.