Investigating bile acid metabolism differences in African Americans and non-Hispanic Whites
Official title: Colonic bile acid metabolism and responses in African Americans and non-Hispanic Whites
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11057973 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the fats we eat might affect bile acids in the colon and how these changes could help explain why African Americans may have a higher risk of colorectal cancer compared to non-Hispanic Whites, using special lab models to better understand these differences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | December 13, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $228,382 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA280578-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057973 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include African American individuals and non-Hispanic Whites who are at risk for colorectal cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as African American or non-Hispanic White may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how bile acids, which are influenced by dietary fat, may contribute to colorectal cancer (CRC) disparities between African Americans and non-Hispanic Whites. By examining the metabolism of bile acids in the colon, the study aims to identify potential differences in how these populations respond to dietary factors that could increase CRC risk. Using advanced colonic organoid models, researchers will analyze serum bile acid composition and its relationship to cancer risk. The findings could lead to a better understanding of the environmental and biological factors that contribute to CRC disparities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted prevention strategies for colorectal cancer in high-risk populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated differences in bile acid metabolism between these populations, suggesting that this research builds on promising preliminary findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kupfer, Sonia — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Kupfer, Sonia
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.