Understanding the causes of aggressive prostate cancer in African American men

Molecular Determinants of Lethal Prostate Cancer in African-Americans

NIH-funded research Howard University · NIH-11011783

This study is looking at why African American men are more likely to have aggressive prostate cancer, by examining their genetic information to find clues that could help predict how the disease will progress, with the goal of improving treatment options for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHoward University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Washington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11011783 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the biological factors that contribute to the higher rates of aggressive prostate cancer in African American men compared to other populations. By analyzing genomic and epigenomic profiles of prostate cancer in this group, the study aims to identify specific molecular biomarkers that could predict disease outcomes. The research will involve creating a unique cohort of African American men with locally metastatic prostate cancer to better understand the differences between primary and metastatic disease. This approach seeks to address significant health disparities and improve personalized treatment options for affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American men diagnosed with prostate cancer, particularly those with locally metastatic disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are not of African descent or those with non-metastatic prostate cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted therapies and improved prognostic tools for African American men with prostate cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying biomarkers in other populations, but this specific focus on African American men is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Washington, 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.