Investigating how arsenic exposure leads to bladder cancer

Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Arsenic-Induced Urothelial Bladder Cancer

NIH-funded research Dartmouth College · NIH-11046565

This study is looking at how exposure to arsenic can increase the chances of getting bladder cancer, using zebrafish to see how changes in bladder cells might lead to cancer, with the goal of finding ways to help prevent and treat it, especially for people living in areas where arsenic is common.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDartmouth College NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hanover, United States)
Project IDNIH-11046565 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which exposure to inorganic arsenic increases the risk of developing urothelial bladder cancer. Using a novel zebrafish model, the study aims to explore how specific genetic changes in bladder cells contribute to cancer initiation and progression. By leveraging advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, researchers will analyze gene expression patterns in bladder cells to identify potential targets for prevention and treatment. The findings could lead to better risk mitigation strategies for populations exposed to arsenic, particularly in rural areas.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in rural areas with a history of arsenic exposure and those at risk for bladder cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of arsenic exposure or those with other unrelated types of cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies and treatments for bladder cancer linked to arsenic exposure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using zebrafish models has shown success in understanding cancer mechanisms, suggesting this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Hanover, 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.
Conditions Bladder Cancer
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.