Ting Fu, PhD, MPVM, MS
Investigating Bile Acids as Diagnostic Markers and Treatments for Colorectal Cancer
Summary
Metabolic disorders such as obesity, colorectal cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease are closely linked to problems with bile acid regulation, imbalances in gut bacteria, and immune system disruptions. Bile acids play an essential role in the body’s response after eating by signaling changes in diet and gut bacteria to the cells lining the intestines. A key player in maintaining bile acid balance is the Farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a protein that is a crucial target for new drugs. Our initial research has identified two specific bile acids produced by gut bacteria: 7-oxo-deoxycholic acid (7-oxo-DCA) and isodeoxycholic acid (isoDCA). We found that 7-oxo-DCA acts as a neutral FXR blocker, promoting the growth of intestinal tumors, whereas isoDCA is a strong FXR activator, significantly inhibiting tumor growth. Our project aims to investigate the high levels of 7-oxo-DCA in colorectal cancer as a potential diagnostic marker and explore the use of isoDCA as a possible new treatment for the disease. This research could lead to better diagnostic tools and therapies for colorectal cancer, potentially improving outcomes for many patients.
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This generous grant will offer the crucial financial backing needed to advance drug discovery research within my newly founded laboratory, focusing on the identification of new microbial bile acids as potential treatments for colorectal cancer.
