Investigating how specific gene variations affect colorectal cancer in African Americans
Official title: ATG16L1 isoforms and CRC health disparities
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10989286 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how differences in a specific gene might affect colorectal cancer in African Americans compared to non-Hispanic Whites, with the hope of finding better, personalized treatments for African American patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $399,187 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA283138-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10989286 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are African American individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not of African American descent or those without a colorectal cancer diagnosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the differences in colorectal cancer (CRC) biology between African Americans and non-Hispanic Whites. It examines how specific variations in the ATG16L1 gene influence cancer risk and treatment responses. By analyzing tissue samples and using specialized cell lines, the study aims to identify how these genetic factors contribute to health disparities in CRC. The goal is to develop more effective, tailored treatment strategies for African American patients based on their genetic profiles.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized treatment options that improve survival rates for African American patients with colorectal cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors influencing cancer disparities, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dent, Paul — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Dent, Paul
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.