Finding blood markers to detect liver cancer early in Hispanic patients with hepatitis B.
Biomarkers for Early Detection of Hepatitis B-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Hispanics
This study is looking for blood tests that can help predict if people with hepatitis B, especially those in the Hispanic community, might develop liver cancer early on, making it easier to catch and treat the disease before it gets serious.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11050291 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on identifying immune-related blood biomarkers that can predict the early development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in individuals infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV), particularly among Hispanics. Current screening methods rely on ultrasound, which can be inconsistent and poorly adhered to due to various challenges. The study aims to explore whether a non-visual approach using blood tests can provide a more reliable and accessible means of early detection. By analyzing serum samples, researchers hope to uncover specific immune markers that indicate the risk of developing HCC, potentially leading to earlier and more effective interventions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Hispanic individuals with chronic hepatitis B infection.
Not a fit: Patients without hepatitis B infection or those with advanced liver disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable earlier detection of liver cancer in patients with hepatitis B, improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using immune markers for cancer prediction, suggesting that this approach may be viable.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Debes, Jose Daniel — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Debes, Jose Daniel
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.