Detecting cancer-related DNA in blood quickly and easily using advanced technology
Official title: Rapid, simple, and ultrasensitive quantitation of KRAS ctDNA at the point of care using CRISPR/Cas amplification and digital resolution biosensor microscopy
Funded at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-10896361 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, easy blood test that can find tiny pieces of cancer DNA in your blood, helping doctors see how your cancer is doing and decide on the best treatment for you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $359,637 |
| NIH project number | 5R33CA272271-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10896361 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing treatment for cancers that can be monitored through ctDNA analysis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers that do not shed detectable ctDNA into the bloodstream may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new method to detect circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in blood plasma, which can indicate the presence of cancer and help guide treatment decisions. By utilizing a novel assay called 'Activate, Cleave, Capture, and Count' (AC3), the researchers aim to create a rapid and sensitive test that can be performed in a clinical setting during a routine office visit. This approach seeks to overcome the limitations of current methods, making it easier for healthcare providers to monitor cancer progression and treatment effectiveness.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more timely and accurate cancer diagnoses and treatment adjustments, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar biosensing techniques for cancer detection, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cunningham, Brian T. — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Cunningham, Brian T.
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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.