Exploring DNA markers in urine to improve bladder cancer diagnosis
Official title: Unlocking the Diagnostic and Prognostic Potential of 5hmC in Urine cfDNA: Characterization of Genome-wide Landscape in Healthy Urine and Biomarker Development in Localized Bladder Cancer
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11111152 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in DNA found in urine can help doctors better detect bladder cancer early, making it easier and less invasive for patients to get tested.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $54,538 |
| NIH project number | 5F30CA288116-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11111152 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for bladder cancer or those experiencing symptoms related to urinary tract issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced bladder cancer or those who have already undergone extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of analyzing 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) in urine cell-free DNA (cfDNA) to enhance the diagnosis of localized bladder cancer. By examining the genome-wide landscape of 5hmC in healthy urine, the researchers aim to develop biomarkers that could provide a non-invasive alternative to current diagnostic methods. The study will involve collecting urine samples and analyzing their DNA to identify patterns that may indicate the presence of bladder cancer. This approach seeks to improve early detection and monitoring of bladder cancer through a more accessible and less invasive method.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and non-invasive diagnostic tools for bladder cancer, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using cfDNA for cancer diagnosis, but this specific approach using urine cfDNA and 5hmC is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Panda, Arpit — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Panda, Arpit
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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.