Gut bacteria in colorectal cancer
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Role of toxigenic bacterial infections in cancer development
IRAS ID
143945
Contact name
Jeremy Sanderson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
5 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
The human gut and in particular the colon is lined with a high density of bacteria. The types of bacteria in this community, collectively known as the microbiome, are wide ranging and differ in their structure, location and activity. Gut bacteria are proposed to play a beneficial role in various aspects of human health for example the development of the immune system and augmenting the digestion of food. Conversely alterations in the microbiome have been linked to several diseases including cancer development. The study will look at effects of some of the toxins produced by gut bacteria on cancer development. This knowledge will improve the understanding of cancer development and potentially lead to advances in its treatment and prevention. Patients will undergo a colonoscopy where samples from the bowel lining will be obtained. Samples will be collected from patients: (1) with a new diagnosis of colon cancer, (2) with large non-cancerous growths known as polyps, (3) who have had colon cancer removed and are undergoing follow up colonoscopy, (4) with chronic inflammatory conditions of the bowel who are undergoing routine check up colonoscopy, and (5) with a healthy bowel used as controls. Blood and stool samples will also be collected from these patients. All samples will be analysed for the presence of specific bacteria. We will look for toxin production and any effects of these toxins on the healthy bowel. The sample collection will be undertaken in the endoscopy department at Guy's and St Thomas’ hospital. The samples will be analysed in the laboratory. The study duration will be 5 years.
REC name
Wales REC 7
REC reference
14/WA/1221
Date of REC Opinion
26 Nov 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion