A new device for noninvasive diagnosis of pancreatic cancer using carbon nanotubes.

3D carbon-nanotubes integrated microdevice for extracellular vesicle isolation and in situ sample preparation towards noninvasive pancreatic cancer diagnosis

NIH-funded research Carnegie-Mellon University · NIH-10669041

This study is testing a new tiny device that uses special materials to help find important markers in blood that could indicate pancreatic cancer, making it easier and less invasive for patients to get diagnosed early and improve their chances of successful treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCarnegie-Mellon University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10669041 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a microdevice that utilizes carbon nanotubes to isolate extracellular vesicles (EVs) from blood samples, which can provide critical information for diagnosing pancreatic cancer. By enhancing the sensitivity and specificity of early detection, this device aims to improve patient outcomes by identifying cancer at an earlier stage. The approach involves a continuous flow microfluidic design that increases sample capacity and reduces the risk of clogging, making it more efficient for clinical use. Patients may benefit from this innovative technology as it offers a noninvasive alternative to traditional diagnostic methods.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for pancreatic cancer, including those with a family history of the disease or genetic predispositions.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced pancreatic cancer who are already diagnosed and undergoing treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of pancreatic cancer, significantly improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using liquid biopsies for cancer diagnosis, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancersneoplasm/cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.