Improving cervical cancer outcomes by targeting specific bacteria
Official title: Targeting tumoral Lactobacillus iners to improve outcomes in cervical cancers
Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-10979840 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a certain bacteria called Lactobacillus iners, found in cervical tumors, might make cervical cancer harder to treat, and it hopes to find new ways to help women with advanced cervical cancer live longer and healthier lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $660,742 |
| NIH project number | 1R37CA285794-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10979840 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with locally advanced cervical cancer, particularly those who have not responded well to standard treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage cervical cancer or those who do not have the specific bacterial presence in their tumors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific bacteria, Lactobacillus iners, found in cervical tumors and its impact on treatment resistance in cervical cancer. The study aims to understand how this bacteria alters tumor metabolism and contributes to poor survival rates among patients. By exploring novel therapeutic approaches that target this bacteria, the research seeks to improve outcomes for women diagnosed with locally advanced cervical cancer. Patients may be involved in trials that assess new treatment strategies based on these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options and survival rates for women with cervical cancer.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting tumor microbiomes is a novel approach, similar studies in other cancer types have shown promising results, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Colbert, Lauren Elizabeth — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Colbert, Lauren Elizabeth
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Targeting tumor Lactobacillus iners to help cervical cancer patients
This grant seeks to understand how a specific bacteria, Lactobacillus iners, in cervical tumors affects treatment and outcomes, with the goal of improving therapy for women with cervical cancer.
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Connecting communities and clinics to increase early breast and cervical cancer screening in Kenya
This project tries two community-plus-clinic programs to help women in Kenya get breast and cervical cancer screening and follow-up care.
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Boosting early breast and cervical cancer screening in Kenyan communities
This project tests two combined community outreach and clinic-support programs to help women in Kenya get screened for breast and cervical cancer and receive timely follow-up.
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Understanding bacteria in cervical cancer to improve treatment
This project looks at a specific bacteria found in cervical tumors to find new ways to make treatments work better for women with cervical cancer.
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Improving early detection of breast and cervical cancers in Kenya
This study is working to help women in Kenya get better access to breast and cervical cancer screenings by connecting community resources and providing education, so they feel more informed and motivated to take care of their health.
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Moderately hypofractionated radiotherapy after hysterectomy for cervical cancer
This study tests whether a shorter, moderately intensified radiotherapy course after surgery is safe and effective for patients with cervical cancer.
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.