Understanding how certain microbes affect colorectal cancer growth and spread
Official title: Deciphering the Critical Determinants of Enteric and Tumor Niche Colonization by Microbes in Colorectal Cancer
Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11046317 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific type of bacteria in the mouth might affect the growth of colorectal cancer, and it aims to find out how this bacteria interacts with tumors to help improve treatment options for patients.
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 start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $697,763 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA288827-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046317 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer, particularly those with advanced disease or poor prognosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage colorectal cancer or those without Fusobacterium nucleatum present in their tumors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Fusobacterium nucleatum, a type of bacteria found in the mouth, in the development and progression of colorectal cancer. By examining how this microbe colonizes the tumor environment, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms through which it influences cancer behavior and patient outcomes. The approach includes analyzing tumor samples and the surrounding microbial communities to identify critical factors that contribute to cancer progression. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatment strategies targeting these microbes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that improve survival rates for colorectal cancer patients by targeting harmful microbes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that targeting the microbiome can influence cancer outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
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
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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.