Fast automated test to profile cancer genome structure
Commercialization of a rapid, automated Hi-C platform for sensitive genomic profiling of multiple cancer sample types
A fast automated lab test that looks for a wide range of DNA changes in tumors to help people with cancer get clearer genetic answers for care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cantata Bio LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11194324 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project is commercializing VariLink, a rapid Hi-C based lab workflow that maps how DNA is folded in tumor cells to reveal large structural changes and smaller mutations in one run. The company aims to make the test fast (under 8 hours) and automated so it can be used on many types of cancer samples. By using long-range DNA linkage information, the test is designed to catch structural variants that standard sequencing can miss while still identifying small mutations. The work focuses on validating and scaling the method so it can be offered by clinical labs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancer who have tumor tissue available and need more comprehensive genetic profiling—especially when prior tests found no actionable changes—would be ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Patients without available tumor samples, whose care does not depend on genetic testing, or whose cancers are driven mainly by non-genetic factors may not benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reveal previously missed cancer-causing DNA changes and expand personalized treatment or clinical trial options.
How similar studies have performed: Hi-C and other genome-mapping techniques have shown promise in research for finding structural variants in tumors, but rapid, automated commercial platforms like this are relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, UNITED STATES
- Cantata Bio LLC — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munding, Elizabeth — Cantata Bio LLC
- Study coordinator: Munding, Elizabeth
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.