Blood-based test to better target lung cancer screening
Official title: Improving risk stratification for lung cancer screening using peripheral blood leukocyte DNA methylation: an investigation in the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST)
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11285180 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project uses DNA changes in white blood cells from blood tests to help identify which older current or former smokers should get low-dose CT lung screening.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $662,505 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA280815-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11285180 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
The approach is aimed at older adults with a significant smoking history who are eligible or borderline eligible for low-dose CT lung cancer screening (current or former smokers with substantial pack-year history).
✕Less likely to help
People without a history of smoking or those not eligible for lung CT screening are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
We will measure DNA methylation (a type of chemical change to DNA) in white blood cells from blood samples that were collected before screening and at later time points from participants in the National Lung Screening Trial. Using those measurements and the participants' screening results, we will create a risk tool to sort people into higher- and lower-risk groups to try to reduce unnecessary CT scans. We will also compare methylation patterns in people who had positive CT screens and later developed lung cancer with those who had false-positive scans but did not develop cancer. The work uses stored blood samples and existing NLST data, so it focuses on lab analysis and data modeling rather than new patient visits.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reduce unnecessary CT scans, radiation exposure, and false positives by better identifying who truly needs screening.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on blood DNA methylation markers for lung cancer risk is promising but remains experimental and is not yet part of routine clinical screening.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Michaud, Dominique S. — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Michaud, Dominique S.
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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.