Investigating the role of T helper cells and stem cells in colon health and cancer development

T helper cells and stem cells in colon homeostasis and tumor initiation

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11073768

This study is looking at how certain immune cells and stem cells in the colon work together and might affect the development of colon cancer, with the hope that what we learn could help create better ways to prevent or treat this disease for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11073768 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how specific T helper cells and stem cells contribute to the health of the colon and the initiation of colon cancer. It focuses on a newly identified population of intestinal stem cells marked by Fgfbp1, which may play a crucial role in the development of colon tumors. By examining the interactions between these stem cells and T helper cells, the research aims to understand how inflammation and immune responses influence cancer progression. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new prevention or treatment strategies for colon cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of colon neoplasia or those at high risk for developing colon cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with non-colon-related cancers or those without any risk factors for colon cancer may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating colon cancer by targeting specific immune and stem cell interactions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune cells in cancer development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Conditions Cancer Inductioncancer progression
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.