Investigating the link between metal exposure and prostate cancer in veterans
Official title: BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application
Funded at Central Arkansas Veterans Hlthcare Sys · NIH-10950287 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how being around certain metals, like arsenic and lead, might raise the chances of getting prostate cancer in veterans, and it hopes to find helpful clues that could improve prevention and treatment for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Central Arkansas Veterans Hlthcare Sys NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (North Little Rock, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2022 |
| Project end | September 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK6BX006182-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10950287 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are male veterans aged 50-69 who may have been exposed to inorganic arsenic or lead during military service.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not veterans or those who do not have a history of exposure to the metals being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how exposure to certain metal ions, particularly inorganic arsenic and lead, may increase the risk of prostate cancer among veterans. The study utilizes a novel animal model to explore the mechanisms behind this potential link, examining how these metals affect prostate epithelial stem-like cells. By analyzing urine samples from prostate cancer patients and controls, the research aims to identify specific biomarkers associated with metal exposure. The ultimate goal is to provide insights that could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for prostate cancer in veterans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved screening and prevention strategies for prostate cancer in veterans, potentially saving lives.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated a potential link between metal exposure and cancer risk, suggesting that this research could build on existing knowledge in a novel way.
Where this research is happening
-
Central Arkansas Veterans Hlthcare Sys
North Little Rock, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ho, Shuk-Mei — Central Arkansas Veterans Hlthcare Sys
- Study coordinator: Ho, Shuk-Mei
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.