Understanding and preventing early-onset colorectal cancer
Official title: PROSPECT: Pathways, Risk factors, and mOleculeS to Prevent Early-onset Colorectal Tumors
Funded at Broad Institute, INC. · NIH-11047335 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into what causes colorectal cancer in people under 50, focusing on things like biology, environment, and lifestyle, to help find ways to prevent it and improve early detection for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Broad Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $211,803 |
| NIH project number | 1OT2CA297578-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047335 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 50 years old who may be at risk for colorectal cancer due to genetic, environmental, or lifestyle factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients over 50 years old or those without risk factors for colorectal cancer may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex factors that contribute to colorectal cancer in individuals under 50 years old. By examining biological, environmental, and lifestyle influences, the team aims to identify key risk factors and mechanisms that lead to cancer development. Utilizing advanced animal models and a collaborative approach, the research seeks to translate findings into effective prevention strategies. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to earlier detection and intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new prevention strategies that significantly reduce the incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding risk factors for colorectal cancer, but this approach is innovative in its focus on early-onset cases.
Where this research is happening
-
Broad Institute, INC.
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huttenhower, Curtis — Broad Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Huttenhower, Curtis
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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.