Grant title: Reducing colorectal cancer risk with cricket powder and chitin: analysis of epigenetic and inflammatory biomarkers from a randomised controlled trial
Institution: University of Almeria
Grant awarded: September 2025
This project represents a unique opportunity to explore how sustainable protein sources such as cricket powder can influence gut health and colorectal cancer prevention.
I am deeply grateful to World Cancer Research Fund International and the American Institute for Cancer Research for supporting this milestone in my journey toward scientific independence, and for fostering innovative, translational research that bridges sustainable nutrition and colon cancer biology – Dr Carmen Rodriguez Garcia
Background
Our research aims to investigate whether consumption of chitin, a dietary fibre found in the outer shells of insects, can help prevent colorectal cancer. Previous studies in both animals and humans suggest that chitin has positive health effects, including promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and reducing inflammation, both of which play critical roles in the development of colorectal cancer.
Hypothesis and objectives
The proposed study hypothesises that chitin consumption may lead to beneficial changes in the gut microbiota composition, reductions in gut inflammation, and improvements in DNA modifications (called DNA methylation) in the colon. Together, these changes could reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. The study will focus on identifying these changes in the colonic environment, which are considered early indicators of colorectal cancer risk. Specifically, we will examine how chitin affects the composition of gut bacteria, inflammatory mediators in the colon, gut metabolites and the epigenetic regulation of DNA in colon cells.
How it will be done
To achieve this, we will analyse faecal samples from a recently completed clinical trial in which participants consumed chitin or a placebo in a randomised, controlled trial. Each participant consumed chitin or placebo for 30 days, separated by 14-day washout periods. Faecal samples collected during the study will undergo a series of advanced analyses, including multiple markers of gut inflammation.
We will also use state-of-the-art techniques to examine global and gene-specific changes in DNA methylation, which are considered some of the earliest alterations in the development of colorectal cancer. In addition, we will conduct metabolomic profiling to analyse small molecules produced by interactions between gut bacteria and dietary components. Finally, we will integrate these findings with existing microbiome data to examine the relationships between changes in gut bacteria, inflammation, DNA methylation and gut metabolite profiles.
Potential impact
The potential impact of this study is substantial. It represents a highly innovative approach to colorectal cancer prevention by examining some of the earliest known biological changes that lead to cancer. The findings will provide a foundation for understanding the mechanisms through which chitin may reduce colorectal cancer risk. Furthermore, this project complements an ongoing animal study in our laboratory, where the effects of chitin on colorectal cancer prevention are also being examined. Together, the results of these studies will provide valuable insights into developing new strategies for colorectal cancer prevention, and advancing sustainable and healthy dietary practices.
By exploring the impact of chitin on colorectal cancer risk factors such as gut microbiota composition, inflammation and DNA methylation, this project can pave the way for more definitive clinical trials with adenoma or cancer occurrence as primary endpoints. Additionally, the study supports the global shift towards sustainable diets, contributing to improved public and planetary health. Ultimately, our work aims to provide a novel, science-based dietary approach to reducing the burden of colorectal cancer and promoting long-term health.