Investigating liver cancer disparities in Latino populations

Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparity Research Center

NIH-funded research University of Texas Rio Grande Valley · NIH-11172388

This study is looking into why Latino people are more likely to develop liver cancer than Caucasian people, focusing on lifestyle habits like smoking and drinking, as well as a specific protein, to find better ways to treat and support those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Rio Grande Valley NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Edinburg, United States)
Project IDNIH-11172388 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the reasons behind the higher rates of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Latino populations compared to Caucasians. It examines how socio-behavioral factors like smoking and alcohol consumption, along with a specific protein called MUC13, contribute to the progression and treatment outcomes of liver cancer. By analyzing tissue samples and patient data, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that lead to these disparities. The findings could help tailor more effective treatments for affected populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include Latino individuals diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma or those at high risk due to socio-behavioral factors.

Not a fit: Patients who are not Latino or do not have hepatocellular carcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies and outcomes for Latino patients suffering from liver cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing health disparities in cancer treatment can lead to significant improvements in patient outcomes, suggesting that this approach may also be effective.

Where this research is happening

Edinburg, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.