Improving DNA extraction from preserved tissue samples for better sequencing results

Developing a New Nucleic Acid Extraction Technology to Enable High Quality DNA Sequencing for Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded Tissue Samples

NIH-funded research Vellum Biotechnology, INC. · NIH-11186794

This study is testing a new way to get better DNA from preserved tissue samples, which can help doctors and researchers understand diseases more clearly, and it’s designed for patients whose tissue has been stored for testing.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVellum Biotechnology, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Palo Alto, United States)
Project IDNIH-11186794 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the extraction of DNA from formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue (FFPET) samples, which have been used for over a century to store patient tissue. The team at Vellum Biotechnology is developing a new technology called epitachophoresis (ETP) to improve the yield and quality of nucleic acids extracted from these samples. By addressing the challenges of traditional purification methods, this approach aims to provide more reliable and high-quality DNA for next-generation sequencing, which is crucial for both diagnostics and research. Patients' preserved tissue samples will be utilized to validate the effectiveness of this new extraction method.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals whose tissue samples have been preserved as FFPET and are needed for genetic analysis.

Not a fit: Patients whose tissue samples are not preserved as FFPET or who do not require genetic analysis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate genetic analyses, improving diagnostic capabilities and personalized treatment options for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in improving DNA extraction techniques, but this specific approach using epitachophoresis is novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

Palo Alto, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.