Understanding How Bacteria in Tumors Affect Cancer Growth
Interrogating the Role of Bacterial Methyl-modifying Enzymes in Pathoadaptation and Host Epigenetic Interference in Cancer
This research explores how certain bacteria living within tumors might help cancer grow and whether targeting these bacteria could lead to new ways to prevent or treat cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11160624 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that tumors contain not only cancer cells but also many different microorganisms, including bacteria. For example, a specific bacterium called Fusobacterium nucleatum is often found in colorectal cancer. Our team is looking into how these bacteria adapt to live inside tumors and if they directly change human cells to help cancer progress. By understanding these processes, we hope to find new ways to stop cancer from growing or even prevent it.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for patients with advanced cancer, particularly those with colorectal adenocarcinoma where specific bacteria are known to be present.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancer is not associated with the specific bacteria being studied may not directly benefit from this particular line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapies that target specific bacteria in tumors, offering novel approaches for cancer prevention and treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies by this research group have identified specific bacterial clades enriched in human tumors, providing a strong foundation for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnston, Christopher D — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Johnston, Christopher D
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.