Investigating the role of enolase in prostate cancer disparities among men of different ancestries

Role and Theranostics Potential of Enolase in Prostate Cancer Health Disparities

NIH-funded research Loma Linda University · NIH-10977476

This study is looking into why men of African descent are more likely to get prostate cancer than men of European descent, by exploring how their immune systems respond to a certain enzyme, with the hope of finding better treatment options for advanced prostate cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLoma Linda University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Loma Linda, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10977476 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding why men of African ancestry experience higher rates of prostate cancer compared to men of European ancestry. It examines the differences in immune responses to a specific enzyme called enolase, which may play a role in cancer progression. By analyzing how these immune responses vary between the two groups, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets and develop small molecules that could improve treatment options for advanced prostate cancer. The study combines insights from genetics, immunology, and cancer biology to address health disparities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are men of African ancestry who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Not a fit: Patients of European ancestry or those without a prostate cancer diagnosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for prostate cancer that are tailored to the unique biological responses of different patient populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in cancer, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Loma Linda, 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.