Investigating a genetic variant that may increase lung cancer risk in Black Americans
Official title: Analysis of a missense SNP in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor repressor gene that may disproportionately increase lung cancer risk in Black Americans
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11059064 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a specific gene change that might affect how Black Americans process harmful substances from tobacco smoke, helping us understand why lung cancer rates are higher in this group, and your participation could help find better ways to prevent this disease in your community.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $194,013 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA290319-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11059064 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Black American individuals, particularly men, who may have a family history of lung cancer or are current or former smokers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not of Black American descent or those without a history of smoking may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on a specific genetic variation, known as a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor repressor (AHRR) gene, which may affect lung cancer risk among Black Americans. The study aims to understand how this SNP influences the body's ability to detoxify harmful substances from tobacco smoke, which is particularly relevant given the higher lung cancer rates observed in this population. By analyzing genetic samples and their association with lung cancer incidence, the research seeks to uncover important links that could lead to better prevention strategies. Participants may contribute to a deeper understanding of genetic factors influencing lung cancer risk in their community.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved risk assessment and targeted prevention strategies for lung cancer in Black Americans.
How similar studies have gone: While this specific SNP has not been extensively studied before, preliminary data suggests potential associations with smoking-related cancers in Black Americans, indicating a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Offringa, Ite a — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Offringa, Ite a
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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.