Improving treatment for rectal cancer by targeting tryptophan metabolism

Targeting Tryptophan Metabolism in Rectal Cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10932926

This study is looking at how a specific part of your body's metabolism affects the growth of locally advanced rectal cancer and how well treatments work, with the goal of finding better ways to help patients respond to their treatments.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10932926 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing treatment outcomes for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) by investigating the role of tryptophan metabolism in tumor growth and treatment resistance. The study utilizes patient samples and pre-clinical models to explore the effects of combining short course radiation therapy with an IDO1 inhibitor, which is known to suppress immune responses in tumors. By understanding how IDO1 overexpression contributes to treatment resistance, the research aims to develop more effective therapeutic strategies that could improve patient responses to existing treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with locally advanced rectal cancer who are undergoing or considering neoadjuvant therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage rectal cancer or those who have already received extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options and better survival rates for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach may yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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 →

Conditions: Cancer Center

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.