Investigating the link between cyanobacteria and liver cancer development

Cyanobacteria, cyanotoxins, and liver cancer development

['FUNDING_U01'] · UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII AT MANOA · NIH-11082513

This study is looking into whether exposure to certain bacteria in water might increase the risk of liver cancer, especially for people who already have health issues that affect their metabolism, and it will compare those with liver cancer to others without it to find out more about this possible link.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF HAWAII AT MANOA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HONOLULU, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11082513 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the potential connection between exposure to cyanobacteria and the development of liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It focuses on understanding how toxins produced by these bacteria may contribute to liver disease and cancer, particularly in individuals with metabolic risk factors. The study will involve a nested case-control design, comparing individuals diagnosed with HCC and chronic liver disease to matched controls, while analyzing prediagnostic exposure data and biological samples. By examining these relationships, the research aims to uncover previously unrecognized causes of liver cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with chronic liver disease or those at risk for liver cancer, particularly in regions where cyanobacteria exposure is prevalent.

Not a fit: Patients without any history of liver disease or those not exposed to cyanobacteria may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for liver cancer, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the investigation of cyanobacteria's role in liver cancer is relatively novel, preliminary evidence from other studies suggests a potential link between cyanotoxins and liver disease.

Where this research is happening

HONOLULU, 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: adult onset diabetes, Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus, Cancer Induction

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.