Using modified bacteria to treat colorectal liver cancer

Development of Nanofunctionalized Cyborg C-Novyi NT for Image Guided Trans-arterial Bacteriolytic Embolization of Colorectal Liver Metastasis

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11083614

This study is looking at a new treatment for people with colorectal cancer that has spread to the liver, using a special type of bacteria that can help shrink tumors by breaking down cancer cells.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11083614 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving treatment options for patients with colorectal liver metastases, a condition where cancer spreads to the liver. The approach involves using a modified strain of anaerobic bacteria, Clostridium novyi-NT, which can thrive in low-oxygen environments typical of solid tumors. By targeting these tumors, the bacteria can help to break down cancer cells and potentially lead to significant tumor reduction. The research will explore the effectiveness of this bacteriolytic therapy through pre-clinical and clinical trials.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with colorectal liver metastases who are not suitable for surgical resection.

Not a fit: Patients with colorectal cancer that has not metastasized to the liver or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and effective treatment option for patients with colorectal liver metastases, improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous clinical trials using bacteriolytic therapies have shown promising results, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.