Using engineered bacteria to target harmful toxins linked to colorectal cancer
Official title: Targeting a human gut bacterial genotoxin via engineered commensal bacteria
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11103445 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how specially modified E. coli bacteria can help fight a harmful toxin linked to colorectal cancer by using an enzyme to block its effects, with the goal of creating a new treatment option for people at risk of this type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $627,422 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA299955-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11103445 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for colorectal cancer, particularly those with a history of colibactin-producing bacterial colonization.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have colorectal cancer or are not colonized by colibactin-producing bacteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how engineered strains of E. coli can be used to neutralize a harmful bacterial toxin called colibactin, which is associated with colorectal cancer. The approach involves displaying an enzyme on the surface of these bacteria that can inactivate colibactin, thereby preventing DNA damage and tumor formation. By studying this interaction in cell lines and mouse models, the research aims to develop a novel therapeutic strategy to combat cancer caused by these bacteria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce the risk of colorectal cancer associated with harmful gut bacteria.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using engineered bacteria for therapeutic purposes, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Jiahe — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Li, Jiahe
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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.