Investigating the effects of folic acid on cancer risk in ulcerative colitis patients

Folic Acid Supplementation and Colitis-associated Colon Carcinogenesis

NIH-funded research Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr · NIH-11074126

This study is looking at how taking folic acid might affect the risk of colorectal cancer in people with ulcerative colitis, especially for those with certain genetic changes, to better understand how it could influence tumor growth.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionResearch Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11074126 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on patients with ulcerative colitis, a condition that increases the risk of colorectal cancer. It examines how folic acid supplementation, which is often necessary due to folate deficiencies in these patients, may influence cancer development. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which folic acid could potentially promote tumor growth in individuals with specific genetic mutations, particularly those affecting the p53 gene. Through advanced techniques like CRISPR and RNA sequencing, the research will explore the inflammatory pathways involved in this process.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.

Not a fit: Patients without ulcerative colitis or those who do not require folic acid supplementation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better preventive strategies for colorectal cancer in patients with ulcerative colitis.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have indicated that folic acid supplementation may increase cancer risk in similar contexts, suggesting that this research builds on existing findings.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 2026-06-10 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.