Investigating how asparagine affects colorectal cancer growth differently in men and women

Role and Regulation of Asparagine in Colorectal Cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11048625

This study is looking at how an amino acid called asparagine affects the growth of colorectal cancer tumors in men and women, to see if blocking asparagine can help shrink tumors and improve survival, with the hope of finding new treatment options.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11048625 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of asparagine, an amino acid, in the growth of colorectal cancer (CRC) tumors, particularly focusing on how this process differs between male and female patients. The study aims to understand the metabolic changes in CRC, where female tumors show higher levels of asparagine production, which is linked to poorer outcomes. By using animal models, researchers will investigate the effects of inhibiting asparagine production on tumor size and survival rates, providing insights into potential new treatments. The research also examines the hormonal influences that may contribute to these differences, aiming to uncover mechanisms that could lead to targeted therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are female patients diagnosed with advanced colorectal cancer, particularly those in stages III-IV.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage colorectal cancer or those who are male may not benefit directly from the findings of this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that specifically target asparagine metabolism in colorectal cancer, improving outcomes for female patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting asparagine metabolism in colorectal cancer is novel, similar research has shown promising results in other cancer types, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

NEW HAVEN, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer therapy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.