Understanding how early colon lesions grow into colorectal cancer via tissue environment, genetics, and gut microbes
Official title: Understanding adenoma progression: Interplay among tissue microenvironment, clonal architecture, and gut microbiome
Funded at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center · NIH-11412564 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study to understand why some early colon lesions progress to colorectal cancer by looking at the tissue around them, their genetic changes, and the gut microbiome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,519,091 |
| NIH project number | 5U54CA274374-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11412564 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with colon polyps or a history of colorectal adenomas who may contribute tissue samples or clinical data.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without colon polyps or a history of adenomas are unlikely to directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project focuses on colon adenomas and serrated lesions to uncover why only some progress to cancer. Researchers will examine tissue context, mutations, and microbiome patterns to identify combinations of factors that drive progression. The work combines analyses of human samples and advanced laboratory models to map how early lesions become advanced. The goal is to find early markers and mechanisms that could guide prevention and monitoring. Participants may contribute tissue samples or data as part of a broader research effort.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to better prevention, earlier detection, and personalized monitoring for people with colon polyps.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests multiple interacting factors influence adenoma progression, with some overlap in mechanisms across patients.
Where this research is happening
-
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grady, William Mallory — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Grady, William Mallory
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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.