Creating a new test to diagnose cancer in fluid around the lungs

Development of a Molecular Assay to Diagnose Malignant Pleural Effusions

NIH-funded research Precision Epigenomics, INC. · NIH-11196648

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 typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPrecision Epigenomics, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tucson, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11196648 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with pleural effusions of uncertain origin who require a definitive diagnosis.

Not a fit: Patients with confirmed benign pleural effusions or those not experiencing pleural effusions may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Tucson, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Breast Cancercancer cell
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.