How inherited and tumor DNA changes drive clear cell kidney cancer

Dissecting Convergent Somatic and Germline Alterations that Mediate the Origins and Evolution of Kidney Cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · DANA-FARBER CANCER INST · NIH-11238528

This project looks at how inherited DNA changes and tumor DNA changes work together in people with clear cell kidney cancer to help link genetics and tumor features to treatment decisions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDANA-FARBER CANCER INST (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11238528 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This project analyzes inherited (germline) DNA and tumor (somatic) DNA from people with clear cell kidney cancer to see how they interact. Researchers will combine large genomic datasets, detailed tumor sequencing including noncoding and structural variants, and mapping of different tumor areas to study spatial differences. They will use advanced computer methods and lab tests to identify which DNA changes drive tumor development and unique tumor appearances. The goal is to translate those findings into precision approaches that better match tumor biology and a person’s genetics to likely outcomes and therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates are people diagnosed with clear cell renal cell carcinoma who can provide blood for germline DNA and tumor tissue or agree to use existing genomic data and samples.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of kidney disease or cancer, or those unable or unwilling to provide tumor samples or genetic consent, are unlikely to get direct benefit from participation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help doctors predict tumor behavior and better match treatments to a patient’s specific inherited and tumor DNA profile in clear cell kidney cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have linked genes like VHL to ccRCC and used tumor sequencing to guide care, but jointly analyzing germline variants, noncoding and structural changes, and spatial tumor heterogeneity is a newer and less-tested approach.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Genes, Cancer-Promoting Gene

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.