Identifying DNA changes to improve diagnosis and prognosis of upper tract urothelial carcinoma

Using DNA Methylation Markers for Diagnosis and Prognosis of Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-11044045

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

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11044045 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with upper tract urothelial carcinoma or those at high risk for developing this type of cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancers or those without a diagnosis of upper tract urothelial carcinoma may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Los Angeles, 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: Bladder Cancer

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.