Creating a test using cerebrospinal fluid to better understand and monitor brain tumors
Development and Validation of a CSF Liquid Biopsy for Molecular Characterization and Monitoring of Patients with Central Nervous System Tumors
This study is working on a new test that looks at a small sample of spinal fluid to find signs of brain tumors, helping doctors better understand the tumors and create personalized treatment plans for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10895553 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a liquid biopsy test that analyzes cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to identify molecular characteristics of central nervous system (CNS) tumors. By examining circulating tumor DNA and metabolites in the CSF, the study aims to provide early insights into tumor presence and behavior, which can help in tailoring precision medicine approaches for patients. The methodology involves collecting small volumes of CSF and using advanced techniques to detect specific biomarkers that correlate with tumor burden and treatment response.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with primary or metastatic central nervous system tumors who are 21 years or older.
Not a fit: Patients with tumors outside the central nervous system or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnosis and monitoring of brain tumors, improving patient outcomes through personalized treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using liquid biopsies for cancer detection, but this specific approach using CSF for CNS tumors is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ballester, Leomar Y — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Ballester, Leomar Y
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.