Investigating how obesity-related DNA changes affect cancer risk
Official title: Obesity related Methylation markers for obesity-related cancers
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11139167 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in your DNA, found in blood cells, might be connected to obesity and the risk of getting certain cancers, so that people can better understand their cancer risks related to being overweight.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $441,913 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA293759-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139167 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with obesity who are at risk for obesity-related cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not obese or do not have a family history of obesity-related cancers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific DNA methylation markers in blood cells are linked to obesity and the risk of developing various cancers. By analyzing existing data from a large study, the researchers aim to identify which of these markers are most closely associated with obesity-related cancers. The study will explore the biological pathways involved, particularly those related to insulin resistance and diabetes, to uncover new insights into how obesity contributes to cancer development. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of their cancer risks related to obesity through this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for predicting cancer risk in obese individuals, potentially guiding preventive strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying DNA methylation markers related to obesity and cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Naisi — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Naisi
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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.