Analyzing tumor DNA in cerebrospinal fluid to improve brain cancer management
Interrogating malignant gliomas using released tumor DNA in cerebrospinal fluid
This study is testing a new way to look at DNA from brain tumors in the fluid around the spine of patients with high-grade gliomas, which could help doctors track the disease and treatment without needing a painful biopsy, and it also aims to learn more about DNA in people without cancer to improve diagnosis for other brain issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10889913 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new method to analyze tumor-derived DNA found in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from patients with high-grade gliomas, a type of brain cancer. By creating a multi-analyte assay that examines various genetic changes, the researchers aim to provide a less invasive alternative to traditional biopsies for monitoring disease progression and treatment response. This approach could lead to personalized biomarkers that help doctors make better-informed decisions about patient care in real-time. Additionally, the study seeks to understand the DNA composition in CSF from individuals without cancer, which may enhance diagnostic capabilities for other brain-related disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with high-grade gliomas who require monitoring of their disease progression.
Not a fit: Patients with low-grade gliomas or other types of brain tumors may not benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to less invasive monitoring of brain cancer, improving patient outcomes and treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using tumor DNA from body fluids for cancer monitoring, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bettegowda, Chetan — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Bettegowda, Chetan
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.