Investigating how a liver hormone affects muscle and bone loss in colorectal cancer patients

IGFBP1 mediates a liver-bone-muscle axis in colorectal cancer cachexia

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10890678

This study is looking at how a hormone called IGFBP1, which comes from the liver, might be causing muscle and bone loss in people with colorectal cancer that has spread to the liver, and it aims to find new ways to help those who are struggling with weight loss and muscle wasting.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10890678 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of IGFBP1, a hormone produced by the liver, in causing muscle and bone loss in patients with colorectal cancer, particularly those with liver metastases. The study aims to explore how elevated levels of IGFBP1 contribute to cachexia, a serious condition characterized by weight loss and muscle wasting. By examining the effects of IGFBP1 on muscle and bone cells, the researchers hope to identify potential new treatments that could alleviate these debilitating symptoms. The approach includes both laboratory studies and animal models to assess the impact of IGFBP1 and test anti-IGFBP1 therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include colorectal cancer patients, especially those experiencing cachexia and liver metastases.

Not a fit: Patients without colorectal cancer or those not experiencing cachexia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help prevent or reduce muscle and bone loss in colorectal cancer patients suffering from cachexia.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of IGFBP1 in cachexia is being explored, similar research has shown promise in targeting metabolic pathways to improve outcomes in cancer-related muscle and bone loss.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.