A new test to detect leftover cancer cells in lung cancer patients after surgery
Official title: Orphan Non-coding RNA-based Test for Detecting Minimal Residual Disease in Resectable Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Funded at Exai Bio, INC. · NIH-11008417 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to find tiny amounts of leftover cancer cells in people with non-small cell lung cancer after surgery, using a special blood test that looks at unique RNA from tumors, so doctors can better tailor treatments for you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Exai Bio, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Palo Alto, United States) |
| Project start | September 12, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,280,908 |
| NIH project number | 1R44CA291369-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11008417 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have undergone surgery for non-small cell lung cancer and are at risk of having minimal residual disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer or those who are not undergoing surgical treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the detection of minimal residual disease (MRD) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after surgical treatment. It utilizes a novel assay that analyzes orphan non-coding RNAs found in tumor tissues, combined with an artificial intelligence model to enhance the accuracy of cancer detection. By using blood samples in a liquid biopsy approach, the study aims to identify remaining cancer cells early, which can help doctors customize treatment plans for better patient outcomes. Collaborations with external partners will facilitate the collection of samples to validate the effectiveness of this new diagnostic test.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate detection of residual cancer, allowing for timely and tailored treatments that improve survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches using non-coding RNAs as biomarkers for cancer detection, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Exai Bio, INC.
Palo Alto, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alipanahi, Babak — Exai Bio, INC.
- Study coordinator: Alipanahi, Babak
Related research
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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.