Early-detection tests for colon and esophagus cancers
Biomarker Development Laboratory
This project develops lab tests that look for DNA changes to find early colorectal cancer, Barrett's esophagus changes, and early esophagus cancer in people at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11167429 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will search for methylated DNA markers in normal colon lining and in cells collected from the esophagus to identify who is at higher risk of colorectal cancer or who has high-grade dysplasia or early esophageal cancer. Samples will come from tissue biopsies and from non-endoscopic esophageal cytology devices (a swallowable cell-collection device) so testing can be less invasive and more affordable. The team will run early-phase (EDRN Phase 1 and 2) studies to validate which markers reliably predict risk or detect early disease. The goal is to create accurate biomarker-based tests that can guide more intensive screening or earlier treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates include people with Barrett's esophagus, those with family history or other risk factors for colorectal cancer, and patients already undergoing CRC screening or esophageal surveillance.
Not a fit: People without colorectal or esophageal cancer risk factors, or those unable or unwilling to provide tissue or cytology samples, are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these tests could detect precancerous changes or early cancers sooner so people receive treatment earlier and deaths are reduced.
How similar studies have performed: Smaller prior studies have shown promise for methylated DNA markers and for non-endoscopic esophageal cytology, but larger validation is still needed.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grady, William Mallory — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Grady, William Mallory
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.