Finding lung cancer cells in blood using a special sorting method
Microfluidic sorting of lung cancer cells from leukapheresis product as an alternative to metastatic tumor biopsy
This project is developing a new blood test to find lung cancer cells, offering an alternative to invasive biopsies for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11159704 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Currently, doctors often need to perform repeat biopsies to understand how cancer is changing, but these procedures can be invasive and painful. This project is working on a new approach called a 'liquid biopsy' that uses a blood sample instead. We are developing a special method that collects a larger blood volume than standard tests, then uses a tiny device to sort out rare cancer cells. This technology aims to provide a less invasive way to track lung cancer and help guide personalized treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with lung cancer who currently undergo or may need repeat biopsies for monitoring their disease could be ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Patients without lung cancer or those whose cancer cannot be detected through circulating tumor cells in the blood may not receive direct benefit from this specific method.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could offer a less invasive and more comprehensive way to monitor lung cancer and guide treatment decisions.
How similar studies have performed: While liquid biopsies are a growing field, this specific approach of using leukapheresis with microfluidic sorting for lung cancer cells offers a novel combination to overcome current limitations.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Toner, Mehmet — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Toner, Mehmet
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.