Analyzing tumor cells in blood to improve treatment for advanced prostate cancer
Official title: Genomic profiling of single circulating tumor cells in the precision medicine of metastatic prostate cancer
Funded at Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-10843884 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to analyze cancer cells in the blood of men with hard-to-treat prostate cancer, so doctors can better tailor treatments to each patient's needs as the cancer changes over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 8, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $607,916 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA255792-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10843884 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who may benefit from personalized treatment strategies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage prostate cancer or those who do not have metastatic disease may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), a severe form of prostate cancer that is difficult to treat. The study aims to develop non-invasive methods to analyze circulating tumor cells (CTCs) found in the blood, which can provide real-time insights into the tumor's genomic characteristics. By understanding these characteristics, the research seeks to personalize treatment strategies for patients, adapting to changes in the tumor's profile over time. This approach aims to overcome the limitations of traditional tissue biopsies, which are often challenging to perform in mCRPC cases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized treatment options for patients with advanced prostate cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using liquid biopsies for cancer monitoring, indicating that this approach could be effective for mCRPC as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Hushan — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Yang, Hushan
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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.