Detecting cancer through blood samples by identifying KRAS mutations
Official title: Adapting K-MDS to detect KRAS-mutant ctDNA
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10906953 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to better find cancer by checking for specific changes in a gene called KRAS in blood samples, which could help catch cancer earlier and more accurately with just a simple blood test.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $214,513 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA257816-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906953 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with cancers known to harbor KRAS mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without KRAS mutations or those with cancers that do not shed detectable ctDNA may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the detection of cancer by analyzing circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) found in blood samples. It specifically aims to identify mutations in the KRAS gene, which are present in a significant portion of cancers. By utilizing advanced sequencing technology, the study seeks to enhance the sensitivity of detecting these mutations, potentially allowing for earlier and more accurate cancer diagnosis from a simple blood draw. This approach builds on existing methods but aims to overcome current limitations in detecting low levels of ctDNA.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more reliable and earlier detection of various cancers, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using ctDNA for cancer detection, but this specific approach using Maximum Depth Sequencing is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Counter, Christopher M — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Counter, Christopher M
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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.