Understanding how the immune system responds to radiation in rectal cancer treatment

Dynamics of Immune Response in Irradiated Rectal Cancer

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-10929974

This study is looking at how short course radiotherapy affects the immune system and gut health in people with rectal cancer, and it involves collecting samples from participants before and after treatment to help find better ways to treat the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10929974 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the immune response in patients with rectal cancer undergoing short course radiotherapy. It involves a small clinical trial where participants will provide tumor biopsies, stool, and blood samples before and after treatment. The goal is to analyze these samples using advanced techniques to understand how radiation affects both cancer and normal tissues, as well as the microbiome. By studying these interactions, the research aims to improve treatment strategies for rectal cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with rectal cancer who are scheduled to receive short course radiotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with rectal cancer who are not eligible for short course radiotherapy or those who have already undergone extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for rectal cancer by enhancing the understanding of the immune response to radiation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the immune response to radiation, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.