Investigating the role of gut bacteria in early onset colorectal cancer
Pathogenesis of Early Onset Colorectal Cancer: Microbiome Contributions and Mechanisms
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might play a role in early onset colorectal cancer for people under 50, by comparing the gut bacteria of young patients with cancer to healthy individuals and those with cancer that develops later in life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10899576 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the microbiome, or the community of bacteria in the gut, may contribute to early onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) in individuals under 50. The study will compare the microbial profiles of patients with EO-CRC to those of healthy individuals and those with late onset colorectal cancer. By analyzing bacterial biofilms and immune responses, the researchers aim to uncover potential mechanisms that lead to cancer development. This work involves both retrospective and prospective cohorts to gather comprehensive data on microbial influences over time.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with early onset colorectal cancer, particularly those under 50 years of age.
Not a fit: Patients with late onset colorectal cancer or those without any colorectal cancer diagnosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the prevention and treatment of early onset colorectal cancer by targeting the gut microbiome.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the microbiome's role in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sears, Cynthia — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Sears, Cynthia
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 below.