Understanding how DNA changes contribute to colon cancer
Official title: Mechanisms of DNA methylation signaling and dysregulation in colon cancer
Funded at Van Andel Research Institute · NIH-10979595 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in DNA can affect the development of colon cancer, with the goal of finding new ways to treat patients by understanding what goes wrong in their cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Van Andel Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Rapids, United States) |
| Project start | July 2, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $632,319 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA283463-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10979595 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with colon cancer or those at high risk for developing the disease due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-colon cancers or those without any genetic predisposition to colon cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of DNA methylation, a process that can silence tumor suppressor genes, in the development of colon cancer. It aims to uncover the mechanisms behind abnormal DNA methylation patterns and how they lead to cancer progression. The study will explore the involvement of protein modifications in regulating DNA methylation and assess potential therapeutic targets to correct these abnormalities. By understanding these processes, the research hopes to provide insights into new treatment strategies for colon cancer patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that target the underlying mechanisms of colon cancer, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting DNA methylation and related pathways in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Van Andel Research Institute
Grand Rapids, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rothbart, Scott — Van Andel Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Rothbart, Scott
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Colon Cancer Family Registry Cohort study for smarter prevention and care
A large international group is following thousands of people with colorectal cancer and their relatives to better understand risk, causes, and outcomes so future patients can get better guidance and treatment.
-
Bioengineered Networking Microbes for Targeted Colon Cancer Therapy
A project tests a engineered bacteria-based therapy designed to target colon tumors and boost the body’s immune response in people with colon cancer.
-
How DNA methylation patterns are kept in colon cancer and what happens when they’re disrupted
Researchers are studying how the molecular marks that control gene activity are maintained in colon cancer and how breaking these marks affects cancer growth and treatment response.
-
Adaptive aerobic exercise plans during chemotherapy for colon cancer
This study tests personalized aerobic exercise during chemotherapy for people with colon cancer to help them stay on their planned treatment schedule and reduce side effects.
-
Immune regulation in colon cancer and its spread to lymph nodes and liver
A patient-friendly look at how immune system circuits in colorectal cancer and its metastases may influence treatment responses and outcomes.
-
Biomarker discovery in colon cancer with advanced metabolomics
A new project will use advanced chemical analysis to find blood- and tissue-based markers that indicate colon cancer and its progression.
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.