Temitope O Keku
Area of interest
Dr. Keku's research involves translational research combining basic science with epidemiology to gain a better understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. Her research interests are: genetic and molecular epidemiology of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer; assessment of the contribution of genetic and non-genetic factors to colon cancer susceptibility; identification of germ-line or tumor characteristics associated with cancer risk and clinical outcomes (response to therapy and survival); identification of novel biomarkers for early detection to define risk groups for prevention; cancer health disparities; understand the role of gut microflora in etiology of colorectal cancer.
Dr. Keku is co-investigator on the GI SPORE (project 1) and the Diet and Health Studies (DHS).
Awards and Honors
Dr. Keku received pilot funding from the UNC GI SPORE to study the role of the gut microbiota in the etiology of colorectal adenomas and cancer. The study will provide critical insights on the composition and diversity of the microbiota and their associations with adenomas. The findings from this and future studies could lead to the development of strategies to manipulate the intestinal microbiota to prevent colorectal adenomas and cancer as well as well as identify individuals at high risk.