Investigating how epigenetic aging affects racial disparities in early-onset prostate cancer

Epigenetic aging as a driver of racial disparities in early onset prostate cancer

NIH-funded research Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp · NIH-10983413

This study is looking at how biological aging might be linked to the higher rates of early-onset prostate cancer in African American men, and it hopes to find ways to help reduce this risk by comparing their aging markers to those of European American men.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRoswell Park Cancer Institute Corp NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Buffalo, United States)
Project IDNIH-10983413 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the link between epigenetic aging and the higher rates of early-onset prostate cancer in African American men. It examines how ancestry and race may influence biological aging markers, specifically ribosomal DNA methylation, which could explain the increased risk of prostate cancer in this population. By comparing the epigenetic age of African American prostate cancer patients to that of European American patients, the study aims to identify factors contributing to these disparities. The findings could lead to targeted interventions to reduce the risk of early-onset prostate cancer in African American men.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American men diagnosed with early-onset prostate cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have prostate cancer or are not of African descent may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved screening and prevention strategies for early-onset prostate cancer in African American men.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that epigenetic markers can provide insights into cancer risk, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Buffalo, 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.