Investigating how the microbiome affects colorectal cancer outcomes in different racial and ethnic groups

Project 1: Racial and ethnic differences in the intra-tumoral microbiome: Impact on colorectal cancer mortality and clinicopathologic correlates

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER · NIH-10935388

This study is looking at how the bacteria inside colorectal tumors might affect survival rates in African Americans with colorectal cancer, and it aims to create better screening methods to help identify people at higher risk, even if they don’t have a family history of the disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorFRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10935388 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the differences in the intra-tumoral microbiome and how these differences impact colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality, particularly among African American individuals. The study aims to develop new precision screening strategies that go beyond family history, using polygenic risk scores to identify individuals at higher risk for CRC. By analyzing genetic and functional genomic data, the research seeks to create tailored prevention and screening interventions for those who may not currently be recognized as high-risk. This approach aims to address the disparities in CRC outcomes among racial and ethnic minority groups.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include African American individuals at risk for colorectal cancer, especially those without a family history of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as African American or those with a strong family history of colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved screening and prevention strategies for colorectal cancer, particularly benefiting African American patients who are disproportionately affected.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using polygenic risk scores and functional genomic data to improve cancer risk prediction, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Burden, Cancer Cause, Cancer Etiology

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.