Sulindac and microRNA‑17: stopping spread of colon cancer

MiR-17 mediates sulindac anti-metastatic activity in human colorectal cancer

NIH-funded research Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center · NIH-11237546

This project looks at whether the drug sulindac works through microRNA‑17 to help stop colorectal cancer from spreading in patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCharlie Norwood VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Augusta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11237546 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

From a patient's point of view, researchers will study tumor tissue, blood samples, and laboratory models to see how sulindac affects a small genetic regulator called miR‑17. They will use cell and animal experiments alongside analysis of human samples to track cancer growth and spread. The team plans to connect findings in the lab with data from Veterans Affairs patients to understand real‑world relevance. Results may point to better ways to use an existing drug to lower the chance of metastasis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with colorectal cancer—especially those at risk for or with metastatic disease—and patients receiving care at VA medical centers.

Not a fit: People without colorectal cancer or those who cannot take NSAIDs (like sulindac) are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to slow or prevent metastatic colorectal cancer using a drug already in clinical use.

How similar studies have performed: NSAIDs including sulindac have shown success reducing polyps and lowering colorectal cancer risk, but linking sulindac's anti‑metastatic effects specifically to miR‑17 is a newer, experimental idea.

Where this research is happening

Augusta, 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 Anti-Cancer Agents
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.