A new method for quickly analyzing cancer-related genetic changes
Official title: Commercialization of a rapid, automated Hi-C platform for sensitive genomic profiling of multiple cancer sample types
Funded at Cantata Bio LLC · NIH-10921113 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, faster way to find genetic changes linked to cancer, using a special tool called VariLink that can help doctors understand your cancer better and find more targeted treatments for you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cantata Bio LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 18, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,247,028 |
| NIH project number | 1R44HG014126-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10921113 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with various types of cancer who may benefit from advanced genomic profiling.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancer has already been extensively characterized may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a rapid and automated platform called VariLink that enhances the detection of genetic changes associated with various types of cancer. By utilizing the 3D structure of the genome, VariLink can identify both large structural variants and smaller genetic mutations more effectively than current technologies. The process is designed to be completed in under eight hours, significantly faster than existing methods, which can take several days. This innovative approach aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the genetic factors driving cancer, potentially leading to better-targeted treatments for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and timely cancer diagnoses, enabling personalized treatment options for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using advanced genomic profiling techniques, but this specific approach with VariLink is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Cantata Bio LLC
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munding, Elizabeth — Cantata Bio LLC
- Study coordinator: Munding, Elizabeth
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Pangenome-based Inference of a Patient’s Germline Genome from a Single Tumor Sample
A new bioinformatics tool will help identify a patient’s inherited genome from one tumor sequencing sample, making cancer genetics analyses easier and more affordable.
-
Fast automated test to profile cancer genome structure
A fast automated lab test that looks for a wide range of DNA changes in tumors to help people with cancer get clearer genetic answers for care.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.