Investigating how mitochondrial function affects colorectal cancer
Mitochondrial bioenergetics and colorectal cancer
This study is looking at how changes in the DNA of tiny energy factories in our cells, called mitochondria, might affect the growth of colorectal cancer, with the hope of finding new ways to treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11039945 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of mitochondrial DNA mutations in colorectal cancer (CRC) and how these mutations impact tumor growth and metabolism. By analyzing the differences in mitochondrial function between cancerous and normal tissues, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which these mutations contribute to cancer development. The approach includes using human CRC mitochondria to assess bioenergetic deficiencies and the effects of pharmacological interventions on tumor growth. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondrial dysfunction in CRC.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer, particularly those with advanced disease or specific mitochondrial mutations.
Not a fit: Patients with non-colorectal cancers or those without mitochondrial mutations may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that specifically target mitochondrial dysfunction in colorectal cancer, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting mitochondrial dysfunction in various cancers, suggesting that this approach may be effective for colorectal cancer as well.
Where this research is happening
Winston-Salem, United States
- Wake Forest University Health Sciences — Winston-Salem, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fisher-Wellman, Kelsey H — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Fisher-Wellman, Kelsey H
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 below.