DNA methylation markers to detect early colorectal cancer and predict prognosis
Official title: Advancing early colorectal cancer diagnosis and risk stratification using DNA methylation markers
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11306419 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A blood test using DNA methylation markers is being developed to detect early colorectal cancer and help predict which patients will benefit from extra therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $692,063 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA300666-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11306419 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults at risk for colorectal cancer or patients with non-metastatic colorectal cancer who are being evaluated for prognosis and adjuvant therapy decisions.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without colorectal cancer or related risk factors may not benefit from this specific biomarker approach.
What this research studies
This project aims to use a blood-based test to find colorectal cancer early by looking at DNA methylation patterns in cell-free blood DNA. It also seeks biomarkers that can identify patients at higher risk of recurrence to guide treatment decisions, especially around the use of adjuvant therapies. The study combines advanced sequencing techniques with biomarkers to improve sensitivity and specificity beyond current tests. If successful, it could lead to a minimally invasive tool for risk stratification and personalized care for people at risk or with non-metastatic colorectal cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to a safer, simpler blood test for early detection and better-informed treatment choices for colorectal cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Some existing methylation-based tests exist but many lack the desired sensitivity or prognostic power, making this approach novel and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bissonnette, Bruce Marc — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Bissonnette, Bruce Marc
Related research
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Comparative modeling to guide colorectal cancer screening and care
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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.