Creating a new test to diagnose cancer in fluid around the lungs
Official title: Development of a Molecular Assay to Diagnose Malignant Pleural Effusions
Funded at Precision Epigenomics, INC. · NIH-11196648 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new test called the Sentinel-MPE that helps doctors better tell if fluid around the lungs is caused by cancer or not, making it easier for patients with pleural effusions to get the right diagnosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Precision Epigenomics, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $70,000 |
| NIH project number | 3R44CA287829-01A1S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11196648 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with pleural effusions of uncertain origin who require a definitive diagnosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with confirmed benign pleural effusions or those not experiencing pleural effusions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new molecular assay called the Sentinel-MPE test, which aims to improve the diagnosis of malignant pleural effusions (MPE) compared to traditional methods. The test analyzes fluid samples from around the lungs to differentiate between cancerous and non-cancerous conditions. By utilizing advanced liquid biopsy techniques, the study seeks to enhance the accuracy of cancer detection in patients with pleural effusions. The research will involve a multi-site clinical validation to confirm the effectiveness of this new diagnostic tool.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and timely diagnoses of malignant pleural effusions, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using liquid biopsy techniques for cancer detection, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Precision Epigenomics, INC.
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nelson, Mark Anthony — Precision Epigenomics, INC.
- Study coordinator: Nelson, Mark Anthony
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.