Analyzing blood samples to improve liver transplant selection for cancer patients
Integrated analysis of HCC CTCs for Liver Transplant Candidate Selection
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-10800692
This study is looking at ways to use a simple blood test to find specific cancer cells in patients with liver cancer who might need a transplant, helping doctors better understand their condition and improve their chances of a successful surgery.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10800692 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who are candidates for liver transplantation. It aims to develop a blood-based assay that can detect specific circulating tumor cells and their RNA signatures, which will help assess tumor biology without the need for invasive procedures. By identifying patients who are most suitable for transplantation, the study seeks to reduce the risk of disease progression during the waiting period and improve outcomes after transplantation. The integrated analysis will utilize advanced techniques to monitor tumor characteristics dynamically.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with unresectable, non-metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma who are awaiting liver transplantation.
Not a fit: Patients with resectable HCC or those who do not meet the criteria for liver transplantation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate selection of liver transplant candidates, potentially improving survival rates and reducing recurrence of cancer post-transplant.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using blood-based biomarkers for cancer monitoring, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES — LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: AGOPIAN, VATCHE — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES
- Study coordinator: AGOPIAN, VATCHE
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.