Mechanisms that Impact Cancer Risk with Use of Incretin Mimetics (R21 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The goal of this funding announcement is twofold: to promote preclinical and patient-based studies examining the mechanism(s) through which incretin mimetics (including agonists or antagonists of GLP-1, GIP-1, or dual GLP-1/GIP-1 agents) impact cancer risk, and to draw talented scientists who understand the dynamic changes caused by these agents to investigate the mechanisms of how these agents influence cancer risk rather than shorter term outcomes such as weight loss and diabetes. The data thus far suggests that these agents may increase the risk of some, while decreasing the risk of other obesity-related cancers. This R21 research grant mechanism supports innovative, high-risk, high-reward projects that may lack preliminary data but have the potential to lead to breakthroughs in understanding cancer mechanisms. This opportunity is specifically designed to explore the complex relationship between incretin mimetic drugs and cancer development, encouraging novel approaches to understanding these important mechanisms. The funding will support both preclinical laboratory studies and patient-based research to elucidate the biological pathways involved.