Improving blood tests for early cancer detection using cell-free DNA.
Official title: In vivo enrichment of cell-free DNA to boost sensitivity of circulating nucleic-acid based diagnostics
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11134679 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new blood test that uses special antibodies to find tiny pieces of cancer DNA in your blood, helping doctors catch cancer earlier than with regular scans, which could lead to better treatment results for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $193,901 |
| NIH project number | 5K08EB036081-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134679 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at high risk for cancer or those undergoing evaluation for cancer diagnosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cancer or those who do not have detectable levels of cfDNA may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the sensitivity of blood tests that analyze cell-free DNA (cfDNA) to detect cancer earlier than traditional imaging methods. By using engineered antibodies that bind to cfDNA, the study aims to increase the recovery of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from blood samples, which is often present in very low amounts. The approach involves optimizing these antibodies to improve their effectiveness in capturing ctDNA, potentially leading to more accurate and timely cancer diagnoses. Patients may benefit from earlier detection of cancer, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more reliable blood tests for early cancer detection, allowing for timely interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using similar antibody-based approaches to enhance the detection of circulating tumor DNA, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tabrizi, Shervin — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Tabrizi, Shervin
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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.