Investigating DNA changes in colon cancer among different racial groups
Official title: Full Research Project 2: Changes in DNA methylation phenotype in CRC
Funded at Hunter College · NIH-10931652 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how DNA changes in people with colorectal cancer, especially comparing African Americans to Caucasian Americans, to find early signs that could help identify who is at higher risk for the disease, with the hope of creating better and easier ways to screen for it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hunter College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2018 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $98,515 |
| NIH project number | 5U54CA221704-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931652 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include African American individuals who are at risk for colorectal cancer, as well as those with a family history of the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as African American or who are not at risk for colorectal cancer may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how DNA methylation patterns differ in individuals with colorectal cancer (CRC), particularly among African Americans compared to Caucasian Americans. The study aims to identify early biomarkers that can help distinguish between high-risk and low-risk individuals for CRC, potentially leading to better prevention and treatment strategies. By analyzing blood samples and colon tissue, researchers hope to uncover significant differences in DNA methylation that could explain the higher incidence and mortality rates of CRC in African Americans. The ultimate goal is to develop more effective screening tools that are less invasive and more widely accepted.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early detection and prevention strategies for colorectal cancer, particularly benefiting African American patients who are at higher risk.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying DNA methylation patterns as biomarkers for colorectal cancer, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Hunter College
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kleiman, Frida E — Hunter College
- Study coordinator: Kleiman, Frida E
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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.