Improving cancer detection through advanced blood tests that analyze exosomes.
Streamlined and comprehensive circulating tumor exosome profiling by microfluidic arrayed nanoplasmonic sensors and actuators
This study is working on a new way to find cancer markers in blood samples by looking at tiny particles called exosomes, which can give us important clues about your cancer, to help doctors get a clearer picture of your health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126683 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the detection of cancer biomarkers in blood samples, known as liquid biopsies, by analyzing exosomes—tiny vesicles released by cells that carry important genetic information. The study aims to develop a new platform using microfluidic arrayed nanoplasmonic sensors to streamline the isolation and profiling of these exosomes, which could lead to more accurate insights into cancer status. By overcoming current limitations in sensitivity and specificity, this approach could provide a more comprehensive understanding of minimal residual disease in cancer patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing treatment for cancer who require monitoring for minimal residual disease.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not undergoing cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and sensitive cancer diagnostics, allowing for earlier detection and better monitoring of treatment responses.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using liquid biopsies for cancer detection, but this approach aims to address significant limitations in current methodologies.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shih, Wei-Chuan — University of Houston
- Study coordinator: Shih, Wei-Chuan
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 below.