colon and rectal (colorectal) cancer

December 3, 2025

Large-scale integration of genomics, proteomics and clinical records identifies cancer risk proteins and potential therapeutics

A new study identifies previously unreported protein biomarkers and candidate drug targets across six major cancer types and highlights approved drugs with potential cancer preventive effects.

By Leigh MacMillan
October 15, 2025

New NCI-funded project targets polyp recurrence to prevent colon cancer

The researchers anticipate that their findings will inform personalized colorectal polyp surveillance, guide therapeutic prevention strategies, and ultimately reduce the burden of colorectal cancer nationwide.

By Leigh MacMillan
September 12, 2025

Study shows magnesium inhibits colorectal cancer carcinogenesis by increasing vitamin D-synthesizing bacteria  

The findings from the current study suggest that magnesium also increases the gut synthesis of vitamin D, which does not go to the blood and takes effect locally.

By Tom Wilemon
September 8, 2025

SPORE grant funds $12 million for colorectal cancer research

SPORE grants are highly sought after because they show that a cancer center demonstrates scientific excellence, promotes collaboration, maintains robust research programs and merits substantial funding.

By Tom Wilemon
Aimal Khan, MD, with one of the 3D models he created to use during preoperative consultations. (photo by Donn Jones)
June 9, 2025

Presurgery consults with patients using 3D models improve shared decision-making and reduce anxiety 

The models allowed patients to easily distinguish the ascending colon from the sigmoid colon, along with other parts of the digestive system.

By Tom Wilemon
May 30, 2025

Andreana Holowatyj named ‘40 Under 40 In Cancer’ winner

The awards initiative identifies and recognizes contributions across the field of cancer by rising stars and emerging leaders under the age of 40.

By Tom Wilemon
April 8, 2025

A link between bacterial infection and colorectal cancer: study

Understanding factors that contribute to the development of colorectal cancer could point to new targets for treating the disease at earlier stages, when survival rates are highest.
By Leigh MacMillan
October 2, 2024

Grant funds quest to expand immunotherapy efficacy for colorectal cancer  

The study seeks to understand the mechanisms of colorectal cancer and builds on recent Vanderbilt research.
By Tom Wilemon
July 10, 2024

Clinical trial for rectal cancer subtype shows promise for less aggressive treatment

The findings were so promising that the clinical trial is being redesigned to investigate whether radiation treatment can also be avoided.
By Tom Wilemon
June 21, 2024

International overview of colorectal cancer provides multidisciplinary perspective of clinical advances

The authors hope the report will provide insight on the importance of education, screening and awareness to all health care providers.
By Tom Wilemon
December 11, 2023

Colorectal cancer ‘cartography’ reveals an avenue to improved immunotherapy

Vanderbilt University Medical Center researchers have discovered why most colorectal tumors escape detection and destruction by the body’s immune system.
By Bill Snyder
December 8, 2023

Vanderbilt research presented at Cancer Moonshot meet

Vanderbilt Colorectal cancer expert Bob Coffey, MD, was recently invited to present his research to representatives of President Joe Biden’s reignited Cancer Moonshot initiative.
By Bill Snyder
September 12, 2023

Study finds new genetic susceptibilities for colon cancer

Vanderbilt researchers at have found new genes that put people at higher risk for colon cancer and rectal cancer. 
By Tom Wilemon
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