Investigating how obesity influences colorectal cancer through Wnt signaling
Official title: Wnt signaling in obesity-associated colorectal cancer
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11045733 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how being overweight might raise the chances of developing and worsening colorectal cancer, and it aims to find new ways to help treat this cancer by understanding a specific process in the body that is affected by obesity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | May 23, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $368,288 |
| NIH project number | 5R37CA259363-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045733 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are obese and have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not obese or do not have colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between obesity and colorectal cancer, focusing on how obesity increases the risk and progression of this disease. It examines the role of the Wnt signaling pathway, which is crucial for the development and maintenance of colorectal cancer, particularly in patients with obesity. By understanding the mechanisms that link obesity to cancer progression, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic strategies that could inhibit Wnt signaling and improve treatment outcomes for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target obesity-related colorectal cancer, potentially improving survival rates for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting Wnt signaling in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roper, Jatin — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Roper, Jatin
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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.