Improving detection of disease markers in tiny cell-derived vesicles from blood samples

Development of plasmon-enhanced biosensing for multiplexed profiling of extracellular vesicles

['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11094277

This study is working on a new way to look at tiny particles released by cells, called extracellular vesicles, to help doctors detect important markers for diseases more accurately and easily, making testing less invasive for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11094277 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing advanced technology to analyze extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are tiny particles released by cells that carry important biological information. By creating a new platform that allows for the simultaneous detection of multiple proteins and RNA markers within individual EVs, the researchers aim to enhance the sensitivity and accuracy of molecular diagnostics. The approach involves using nanoplasmonic sensors to directly analyze EVs from clinical samples without the need for extensive preprocessing. This could lead to more effective non-invasive testing methods for various diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Patients with conditions that can be monitored through the analysis of extracellular vesicles, such as cancer or other chronic diseases, would be ideal candidates.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have conditions detectable through extracellular vesicle analysis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the ability to diagnose diseases through non-invasive blood tests.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar nanoplasmonic techniques for detecting disease-specific extracellular vesicles, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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 →

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.