Understanding genetic cancer risks in diverse populations

Characterizing genetic risk of cancer across diverse populations through multi-ancestry epigenome profiling and chromatin QTL discovery

NIH-funded research Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-11020454

This study is looking at how differences in our genes might affect the risk of cancer, especially in men of African ancestry, to help find new ways to understand and prevent cancer in different backgrounds.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11020454 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how genetic variations influence cancer risk across different ancestral backgrounds. By focusing on chromatin quantitative trait loci (cQTLs), the study aims to uncover how these genetic variants affect gene regulation related to cancer. The research will involve profiling regulatory elements in prostate cancer samples from men of African ancestry, addressing gaps in current knowledge that primarily focuses on European populations. This approach seeks to identify novel genetic factors that contribute to cancer risk in diverse groups.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include men of African ancestry who are at risk for prostate cancer.

Not a fit: Patients of European ancestry may not benefit directly from the findings of this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer risk assessment and targeted prevention strategies for diverse populations.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been successful studies on cQTLs in European populations, this research aims to explore a novel approach by focusing on ancestrally diverse cohorts.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.