Understanding how childhood cancer survivors age faster than their peers
Trajectory of epigenetic aging and health outcomes in childhood cancer survivors
This study is looking at how childhood cancer can make survivors age faster than usual, by checking certain markers in their blood, and it aims to find out what factors affect their health so we can help them live healthier lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11082410 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the accelerated aging process in survivors of childhood cancer by measuring biological aging through epigenetic markers. It aims to identify the risk factors and health outcomes associated with this accelerated aging, utilizing data from the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study, which includes a large group of long-term survivors. By analyzing blood samples collected at multiple time points, the study seeks to uncover the relationship between cancer treatments, health behaviors, and chronic health conditions in these individuals. The findings could provide insights into how to improve health outcomes for this unique population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are survivors of childhood cancer and are now adults, particularly those who have been cancer-free for at least five years.
Not a fit: Patients who have not survived childhood cancer or those who are currently undergoing cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of chronic health conditions in childhood cancer survivors, ultimately improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that epigenetic age acceleration is significantly higher in childhood cancer survivors, indicating that this research builds on established findings in the field.
Where this research is happening
Memphis, United States
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital — Memphis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Zhaoming — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Study coordinator: Wang, Zhaoming
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.