How urine DNA testing can improve detection of liver cancer
Official title: Impact of preanalytic procurement and processing variables on the detection of HCC DNA in urine
Funded at Baruch S. Blumberg Institute · NIH-11015793 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to improve urine tests to better detect liver cancer, so patients can have a simpler and less invasive way to monitor their health compared to blood tests and scans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baruch S. Blumberg Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Doylestown, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $367,968 |
| NIH project number | 5U01CA275648-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11015793 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for hepatocellular carcinoma, such as those with chronic hepatitis B or cirrhosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancer or those without risk factors for liver cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how different methods of collecting and processing urine samples can enhance the detection of DNA associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a serious liver cancer. By focusing on optimizing urine collection and DNA isolation techniques, the study aims to develop more sensitive tests that could lead to earlier detection of HCC compared to current methods. Patients will benefit from a potentially less invasive and more accessible way to monitor their cancer status through urine tests rather than relying solely on blood tests and imaging. The research seeks to establish best practices for urine sample handling to improve the accuracy of genetic testing for HCC.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of liver cancer, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using genetic liquid biopsies for cancer detection, indicating that this approach may be effective for HCC as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Baruch S. Blumberg Institute
Doylestown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Su, Ying-Hsiu — Baruch S. Blumberg Institute
- Study coordinator: Su, Ying-Hsiu
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.