Improving cancer detection using advanced DNA profiling techniques

Enriching and Base-Resolution Profiling of 5-Methylcytosine in Degraded Clinical Samples

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO · NIH-11064396

This study is working on a new way to look at DNA changes related to cancer, using a special technique called Glimp-seq that can analyze tiny samples, like those from biopsies or blood tests, to help doctors detect cancer more accurately.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11064396 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the ability to profile 5-methylcytosine (5mC) in clinical samples, which is crucial for understanding and tracking cancer development. It aims to develop a new sequencing platform called Glimp-seq that can analyze degraded DNA from small samples, such as those found in formalin-fixed tissues and cell-free DNA. By utilizing innovative enzymatic reactions, this approach seeks to provide more accurate and sensitive detection of cancer-related changes in the DNA, potentially leading to better diagnostic methods.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancer or those at high risk of developing cancer, particularly if they have limited or degraded tissue samples available for analysis.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancer who have sufficient high-quality tissue samples may not benefit from this specific research focus.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer detection methods, allowing for earlier diagnosis and better treatment options for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing DNA profiling techniques, but this specific approach using glycosylase-based sequencing is novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

CHICAGO, 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: anti-cancer research, Atlas of Cancer Mortality in the United States

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.