Identifying DNA changes to improve diagnosis and prognosis of upper tract urothelial carcinoma
Official title: Using DNA Methylation Markers for Diagnosis and Prognosis of Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11044045 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in DNA from urine samples can help doctors better diagnose and understand the risks of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) before surgery, making it easier for patients to get the right treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $194,013 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA288920-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044045 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with upper tract urothelial carcinoma or those at high risk for developing this type of cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancers or those without a diagnosis of upper tract urothelial carcinoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the diagnosis and prognosis of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) by investigating DNA methylation markers. The study aims to enhance preoperative detection and risk stratification for patients with UTUC, which is currently challenging due to limitations in existing diagnostic tools. By analyzing DNA methylation changes found in urine samples, the researchers hope to develop a non-invasive method that can provide more accurate information about tumor characteristics before surgery. This approach could lead to better clinical decision-making and treatment planning for patients diagnosed with UTUC.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis of upper tract urothelial carcinoma, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using DNA methylation markers for cancer diagnosis, indicating that this approach may be effective for upper tract urothelial carcinoma as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liang, Gangning — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Liang, Gangning
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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.