Investigating how mitochondrial factors contribute to liver cancer disparities in Hispanics
Official title: The mitochondrial aspects of health disparity of hepatocellular carcinoma in Hispanic population
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-10729283 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic factors related to mitochondrial DNA might help explain why Hispanic people are more likely to develop liver cancer, especially in connection with things like hepatitis C, alcohol use, and obesity, so we can find better ways to prevent and treat this disease in that community.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $484,566 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA283840-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10729283 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include Hispanic individuals with a history of hepatitis C infection, alcohol use, or metabolic syndromes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not of Hispanic descent or do not have risk factors associated with hepatocellular carcinoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of mitochondrial DNA and dysfunction in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), particularly among the Hispanic population. It examines how genetic variations in mitochondrial haplogroups may influence the higher rates of HCC seen in Hispanics compared to non-Hispanic whites. The study will analyze the impact of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and other risk factors such as alcohol use and obesity on mitochondrial health. By exploring these connections, the research aims to uncover potential pathways that could lead to targeted prevention and treatment strategies for HCC in this at-risk group.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of liver cancer in Hispanic patients, potentially reducing mortality rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a significant role in various cancers, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bai, Yidong — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Bai, Yidong
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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.