Understanding how age-related changes in gene expression contribute to intestinal cancer development
Defining the Function of Age-Related Epimutation in Intestinal Tumorigenesis
This study is looking at how certain changes in gene activity, caused by DNA modifications, might help speed up the growth of intestinal tumors in mice, especially focusing on a specific gene that helps prevent cancer, to find new ways to prevent and treat cancer in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10676178 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of epimutations, which are stable changes in gene expression caused by alterations in DNA methylation, in the development of intestinal tumors. Using a novel mouse model, the researchers will explore how these epimutations, particularly in the p16 tumor suppressor gene, accelerate tumor formation as the mice age. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which these epigenetic changes interact with genetic mutations to promote cancer, potentially leading to new insights into cancer prevention and treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for intestinal cancers, particularly those with a family history or genetic predispositions.
Not a fit: Patients with non-intestinal cancers or those who do not have any known genetic risk factors for cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating intestinal cancers by targeting age-related epigenetic changes.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of epigenetics in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shen, Lanlan — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Shen, Lanlan
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 below.