New methods for detecting and treating colon cancer
Official title: Novel Tools for Colon Cancer Detection and Therapy
Funded at Omaha VA Medical Center · NIH-11044077 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new ways to find and treat colorectal cancer, especially in the right side of the colon, by focusing on a protein called Claudin-1 that is important in cancer growth, with the goal of helping patients have better outcomes and lower chances of the cancer coming back.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Omaha VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01CX002228-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044077 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for colorectal cancer, particularly those with a history of adenomas or those undergoing screening colonoscopy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced colorectal cancer who are not candidates for surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the detection and treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC), particularly in the right colon where current methods are less effective. It aims to develop novel tools that enhance the visualization of specific types of polyps and improve surgical outcomes by targeting a protein called Claudin-1, which is linked to cancer progression. By understanding how Claudin-1 behaves in different stages of cancer, the research seeks to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and improve patient survival rates. Patients may benefit from new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies that could lead to better management of their condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective detection and treatment options for patients with colorectal cancer, potentially reducing recurrence rates and improving survival.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting Claudin-1 for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach may have potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Omaha VA Medical Center
Omaha, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dhawan, Punita — Omaha VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Dhawan, Punita
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Colon Cancer Family Registry Cohort study for smarter prevention and care
A large international group is following thousands of people with colorectal cancer and their relatives to better understand risk, causes, and outcomes so future patients can get better guidance and treatment.
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How DNA methylation patterns are kept in colon cancer and what happens when they’re disrupted
Researchers are studying how the molecular marks that control gene activity are maintained in colon cancer and how breaking these marks affects cancer growth and treatment response.
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This study tests personalized aerobic exercise during chemotherapy for people with colon cancer to help them stay on their planned treatment schedule and reduce side effects.
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Immune regulation in colon cancer and its spread to lymph nodes and liver
A patient-friendly look at how immune system circuits in colorectal cancer and its metastases may influence treatment responses and outcomes.
-
Biomarker discovery in colon cancer with advanced metabolomics
A new project will use advanced chemical analysis to find blood- and tissue-based markers that indicate colon cancer and its progression.
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.