Understanding and preventing early-onset colorectal cancer
Official title: MGH- PROSPECT: Pathways, Risk factors, and mOleculeS to Prevent Early-onset Colorectal Tumors
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11049568 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at what causes colorectal cancer in people under 50, using animal models to understand how certain factors might lead to this type of cancer, with the hope of finding ways to prevent it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $576,657 |
| NIH project number | 1OT2CA297680-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11049568 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include 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 benefit 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 and environmental influences throughout a person's life, the team aims to identify mechanisms that lead to cancer initiation and progression. The study utilizes advanced animal models and focuses on adenomatous polyps, which are precursors to colorectal cancer, to explore prevention strategies. The goal is to develop actionable insights that can help reduce the incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective prevention strategies for early-onset colorectal cancer, potentially saving lives and improving health outcomes.
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
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chan, Andrew T — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Chan, Andrew T
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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.