Investigating unique genetic markers in aggressive prostate cancers among African American patients

Aberrant Splice Variants as Potential Precision Biomarkers for Aggressive Prostate Cancers in African American Patients

NIH-funded research University of Maryland Eastern Shore · NIH-10466902

This study is looking at how certain genetic differences might explain why aggressive prostate cancer is more common in African American men, with the hope of finding new ways to improve treatment and care for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Maryland Eastern Shore NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Princess Anne, United States)
Project IDNIH-10466902 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how specific genetic variations, particularly in mRNA splicing, contribute to the higher rates of aggressive prostate cancer in African American men. By analyzing prostate cancer samples, the study aims to identify unique splice variants that may serve as biomarkers for more effective treatment and management of the disease. The approach includes validating these genetic markers through advanced techniques like RT-PCR and functional analyses. The ultimate goal is to uncover intrinsic biological differences that could explain disparities in prostate cancer outcomes between African American and European American patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American men diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have prostate cancer or those who are not of African American descent may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of precision biomarkers that improve diagnosis and treatment strategies for aggressive prostate cancer in African American patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying genetic markers related to cancer disparities, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Princess Anne, 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.