Detecting multiple types of cancer early using blood tests

Multi-cancer early detection using cell-free DNA methylome analysis

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10931587

This study is testing a new blood test that looks at DNA patterns to help find early signs of cancers like colon, stomach, liver, and lung cancer, making it easier for doctors to catch these diseases sooner and offer better treatment options for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10931587 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving early cancer detection through a new blood test that analyzes cell-free DNA methylation patterns. The innovative technology, called cell-free DNA Methylome Sequencing (cfMethyl-Seq), aims to enhance the accuracy of detecting early-stage cancers, specifically colon, gastric, liver, and lung cancers. By refining this method and validating it in various clinical settings, the research seeks to integrate this test into routine healthcare, potentially allowing for earlier and more effective treatment options for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for colon, gastric, liver, or lung cancers, particularly those with early-stage symptoms or family histories of these cancers.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers not targeted by this research, or those who are not at risk for the specified cancer types, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and earlier detection of multiple cancers, improving treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar liquid biopsy techniques for cancer detection, indicating a potential for success with this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.