MD Anderson and UT Austin Collaborate to Investigate Microplastics' Cancer Risks

2025-03-27 prevention

Austin, Thursday, 27 March 2025.
MD Anderson and UT Austin are partnering to study microplastics’ role in cancer, aiming to uncover environmental factors affecting rates and develop preventive strategies.

Groundbreaking Research Initiative

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and UT Austin have launched an ambitious collaboration through their Collaborative Accelerator for Transformative Research Endeavors, with funding of up to $4.5 million awarded to five research teams [1]. The initiative, announced on March 25, 2025, brings together 65 researchers from both institutions who will conduct their investigations over the next four-and-a-half years, aiming to secure additional external funding beyond 2029 [2].

Environmental Impact Focus

At the forefront of this collaboration is the EMPATHIC project (Environmental Microplastics and systemic PATHology, Inflammation and Carcinogenesis), which specifically addresses the potential contribution of microplastic pollution to rising cancer rates [3]. This research represents a crucial shift in cancer prevention strategy, acknowledging the significant role of environmental factors in cancer development [4].

Comprehensive Research Scope

The partnership extends beyond microplastics research to include several other critical areas of cancer research. Teams are developing new metal-based therapies for radiation resistance, identifying novel treatments for inflammatory and triple-negative breast cancers, and creating personalized surgical implants for tumors in the spine, sacrum, and pelvis [2]. Additionally, the initiative includes the development of an AI-assisted learning companion to provide treatment options for patients with rare and complex cancers [1].

Future Implications

This collaboration will be further strengthened by the upcoming University of Texas at Austin Medical Center, scheduled to open in 2030, which will house a comprehensive cancer center operated by MD Anderson alongside a tertiary hospital managed by UT Austin [1]. As interim UT Austin President Jim Davis noted, ‘We want to capitalize on the unparalleled talent and expertise that can only be enabled through a collaboration between UT Austin and MD Anderson’ [1].

Bronnen

Microplastics Cancer research