Investigating liver cancer disparities in Latino populations
Official title: Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparity Research Center
Funded at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley · NIH-11001858 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why liver cancer is more common in Latino and Hispanic people than in Caucasians, focusing on lifestyle factors like smoking and drinking, and how a specific protein might play a role in this difference.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Rio Grande Valley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Edinburg, United States) |
| Project start | August 18, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $409,011 |
| NIH project number | 1U54MD019970-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001858 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Latino/Hispanic individuals who are at risk for or diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not Latino/Hispanic or those without liver cancer may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the reasons behind the higher rates of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Latino/Hispanic populations compared to Caucasians. It examines the role of socio-behavioral factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and stress in the progression and treatment outcomes of liver cancer. The study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms, particularly the role of a protein called MUC13, which may contribute to these disparities. By analyzing samples from affected individuals, the research seeks to uncover how these factors interact with cancer biology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for liver cancer in Latino populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding ethnic disparities in cancer can lead to significant advancements in treatment and prevention strategies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chauhan, Subhash C. — University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Study coordinator: Chauhan, Subhash C.
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.