Understanding MSH3 Changes in Colorectal Cancer in African Americans
Inactivation of MSH3 in Colorectal Cancer and Race
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11164522
This project aims to understand why a specific DNA repair protein, MSH3, stops working in colorectal cancer, especially in African American patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11164522 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Colorectal cancer affects African Americans more severely, with higher rates of incidence and death. We've found that a protein called MSH3, which normally fixes DNA, can be disrupted by inflammation, causing it to leave its usual place in the cell. When MSH3 is disrupted, DNA damage builds up, leading to more aggressive cancer. This problem with MSH3 is twice as common in African American rectal cancers and is linked to worse patient outcomes. Our goal is to learn how this MSH3 disruption contributes to advanced cancer and poor survival in African American patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients who are African American and have colorectal cancer, particularly those with advanced-stage disease, are the focus of this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose colorectal cancer is not linked to MSH3 disruption or inflammation may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to new ways to predict how aggressive colorectal cancer will be and develop targeted treatments, especially for African American patients.
How similar studies have performed: This research explores a novel mechanism of MSH3 disruption and identifies unique genetic mutations, suggesting a new and untested approach to understanding colorectal cancer disparities.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CARETHERS, JOHN M — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: CARETHERS, JOHN M
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.