Detecting early signs of small cell lung cancer using specific antibodies
Official title: Tumor-specific autoantibodies for SCLC early detection
Funded at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center · NIH-10732773 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new ways to spot small cell lung cancer early by checking for specific antibodies in the blood, which could help doctors diagnose the disease sooner and improve survival rates for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | December 17, 2019 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $406,116 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA243328-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-10732773 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at high risk for small cell lung cancer, particularly those with a history of smoking or exposure to carcinogens.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already been diagnosed with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the early detection of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) by identifying tumor-specific autoantibodies in the blood. By utilizing a novel hybrid plasma marker methodology, the study aims to detect both autoantibody-antigen complexes and unbound autoantibodies that are indicative of SCLC. The research will analyze prediagnostic plasma samples from various cohorts to establish a reliable biomarker panel for early diagnosis, which is crucial since early-stage detection significantly improves survival rates. The study seeks to overcome the limitations of current CT screening methods that are not effective for SCLC.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of small cell lung cancer, potentially improving survival rates for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using autoantibodies for cancer detection, suggesting that this approach may yield successful outcomes for SCLC as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Houghton, a Mcgarry — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Houghton, a Mcgarry
Related research
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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.