Pathways and factors to prevent early-onset colorectal tumors
Official title: PROSPECT: Pathways, Risk factors, and mOleculeS to Prevent Early-onset Colorectal Tumors
Funded at Harvard University · NIH-11514461 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This NIH grant would explore why colorectal cancer is rising in people under 50 and identify clues we can use to prevent it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $336,115 |
| NIH project number | 3OT2CA297577-01S2 |
| Project ID | NIH-11514461 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals under 50 at risk for early-onset colorectal cancer or with a history of adenomatous polyps, who may contribute data or participate in future prevention studies.
✕Less likely to help
People without risk factors or under-50 cancer concerns may not directly benefit from this research.
What this research studies
The project brings together experts to study how lifelong exposures and biology interact to cause early-onset colorectal cancer, using animal models and human-relevant data. Researchers will examine how different biological and environmental factors disrupt homeostasis and promote tumor development, with a focus on adenomatous polyps as a key precursor. The study aims to translate etiologic understanding into practical prevention strategies that could reduce cancer risk for younger adults. By spanning cells, individuals, and populations, the team intends to uncover actionable insights for interception and prevention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new prevention approaches that reduce early-onset colorectal cancer in younger adults.
How similar studies have gone: Prior EOCRC research has identified several risk factors and pathways, with growing evidence that prevention strategies can impact early disease processes.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard University
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Balskus, Emily Patricia — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Balskus, Emily Patricia
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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.