Improving early detection of liver cancer

The UCLA Center in Early Detection of Liver Cancer

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10931546

This study is working on a new way to find liver cancer early, especially for people at higher risk, like those with liver damage or hepatitis B, by using blood samples and advanced testing techniques.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10931546 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the early detection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), a type of liver cancer that has seen rising mortality rates. The project integrates molecular, imaging, and clinical data to develop a sensitive method for identifying cancer at its earliest stages. By utilizing blood samples and advanced DNA analysis techniques, the research aims to create a comprehensive approach to monitor patients at high risk, such as those with cirrhosis or hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The study involves expanding clinical cohorts to gather more data and improve detection methods.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis B infection who are at high risk for developing liver cancer.

Not a fit: Patients without liver disease or those who do not have risk factors for liver cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis of liver cancer, significantly improving treatment outcomes and survival rates for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using molecular techniques for cancer detection, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
Conditions Cancer CauseCancer DetectionCancer Etiology
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.