A new test to detect early liver cancer using tiny particles released by cells.
Extracellular Vesicle-Based Digital Scoring Assay for Detecting Early-stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma
This study is testing a new blood test that looks for tiny particles called extracellular vesicles to help spot early signs of liver cancer, especially for people with liver cirrhosis or other liver issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11011263 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a digital scoring assay that utilizes extracellular vesicles (EVs) to detect early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a serious liver cancer. The approach involves isolating these vesicles from patients' blood and analyzing their molecular content to identify markers indicative of early cancer development. By combining advanced purification techniques with precise genetic profiling, the study aims to improve the accuracy of early HCC diagnosis, which is currently challenging with existing methods. Patients with liver cirrhosis or other liver diseases may particularly benefit from this innovative diagnostic tool.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with liver cirrhosis or other liver conditions that put them at risk for developing hepatocellular carcinoma.
Not a fit: Patients without liver disease or those who are not at risk for liver cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of liver cancer, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using extracellular vesicles for cancer detection, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in diagnostic methods.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Yazhen — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Yazhen
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 below.