Better Tests for Prostate Cancer Monitoring
Biomarker Development Laboratory
This project is creating new blood, urine, and tissue tests to help doctors better monitor men with low-risk prostate cancer who are on active surveillance.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11111409 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many men with low-risk prostate cancer choose active surveillance, which means carefully watching the cancer instead of immediate treatment, to avoid unnecessary side effects. This project aims to make active surveillance even safer and more effective by developing new, more accurate tests. We are working to find specific markers in blood, urine, and tissue samples that can help tell the difference between slow-growing and aggressive prostate cancer. These new tests could also help detect early signs of cancer progression, allowing for timely treatment when needed. Our goal is to provide doctors with better tools to guide treatment decisions for men with prostate cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is most relevant to men diagnosed with low-risk prostate cancer who are considering or currently undergoing active surveillance.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced or high-risk prostate cancer who require immediate treatment may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these new tests could help men with low-risk prostate cancer avoid unnecessary treatments while ensuring that those who need treatment receive it at the right time.
How similar studies have performed: While individual biomarkers are being explored, this project focuses on developing novel multimodal panels and assays, representing a new approach to improve active surveillance.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Hui — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Hui
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.