Using engineered E. coli to detect and treat colorectal cancer
Engineering Native E. coli to Detect, Report, and Treat Colorectal Cancer
This study is testing a special type of modified E. coli bacteria that can help spot early signs of colorectal cancer and keep an eye on changes in the gut, especially for people under 50 or those with a family history of the disease, to help catch it early and improve prevention.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10925246 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing genetically modified E. coli bacteria that can identify early signs of colorectal cancer (CRC) and monitor changes in the cancer environment. The approach involves using synthetic biology techniques to create bacteria that can survive in the gut, detect abnormal signals associated with CRC, and report these changes or even deliver therapeutic agents. By targeting high-risk populations, especially those under 50 or with genetic predispositions, this project aims to improve early detection and prevention of CRC.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals under 50 years old, those with a family history of colorectal cancer, or individuals from demographics with higher CRC incidence.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced colorectal cancer or those who do not have any risk factors for CRC may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative methods for early detection and treatment of colorectal cancer, potentially saving lives.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of engineered bacteria for cancer detection is a novel approach, similar synthetic biology techniques have shown promise in other areas of cancer research.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zarrinpar, Amir — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Zarrinpar, Amir
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.