Evaluating DNA fragments in blood for early lung cancer detection
Official title: DNA evaluation of fragments for early interception (DELFI) of Lung cancer
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10889171 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at blood samples to find a new, easy way to spot lung cancer early by checking for specific patterns in DNA, which could help patients get treatment sooner and improve their chances of recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 17, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,001,112 |
| NIH project number | 5U01CA271896-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10889171 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at high risk for lung cancer, such as smokers or those with a family history of the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced lung cancer or those who do not have lung cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on analyzing cell-free DNA found in blood samples to develop a non-invasive method for early detection of lung cancer. The approach, known as DELFI, examines the fragmentation patterns of DNA to identify changes associated with cancer. By comparing these patterns in healthy individuals and cancer patients, the research aims to create a reliable diagnostic tool that can help detect localized lung cancer at an earlier stage. This could lead to improved outcomes for patients through timely intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a groundbreaking method for early lung cancer detection, potentially saving lives through timely treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using liquid biopsy techniques for cancer detection, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Velculescu, Victor E. — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Velculescu, Victor E.
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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.