Detecting early molecular signs of multiple myeloma
Molecular Prediction of Myeloma Initiation Molecular Prediction of Myeloma Initiation
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · DANA-FARBER CANCER INST · NIH-11163304
This project uses a sensitive blood test to find early molecular changes that may signal future development of multiple myeloma in people at higher risk.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | DANA-FARBER CANCER INST (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11163304 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the team uses a very sensitive mass‑spectrometry blood test to screen for tiny abnormal proteins they call MGIP that often appear before MGUS and multiple myeloma. They have screened thousands of people and will follow those with early changes over time while collecting blood and sometimes bone marrow samples. The researchers focus on older adults, people of Black ancestry, and those with family histories of blood cancers because these groups have higher rates of early abnormal proteins. The work aims to map the molecular steps from these earliest changes to frank myeloma and identify markers that could guide earlier, targeted treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults around age 50 and older, especially Black individuals or people with a family history of blood cancers, who can provide blood (and possibly bone marrow) samples and participate in follow‑up visits.
Not a fit: People with symptomatic multiple myeloma who need immediate treatment, or those without risk factors and under age 50, are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this early‑detection work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could enable earlier detection and treatment of myeloma that may reduce fractures, kidney damage, hospitalizations, and improve survival.
How similar studies have performed: Randomized trials have shown benefit from early treatment for some people with smoldering myeloma, but using ultra‑sensitive mass spectrometry to detect very early MGIP is a newer approach with promising early data.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- DANA-FARBER CANCER INST — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GHOBRIAL, IRENE M. — DANA-FARBER CANCER INST
- Study coordinator: GHOBRIAL, IRENE M.
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.