Improving early detection of lung cancer
Clinical Validation Center for Lung Cancer Early Detection
Using a blood protein test together with AI-read CT scans to find lung cancer earlier in people at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11190787 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This effort is developing a blood-based four-protein panel (4MP) and testing it in real lung-screening groups to see who might benefit from CT screening. The team will combine the blood markers with other marker types and patient information to identify people who are missed by current screening rules. They will also use AI tools to help read CT images and test a blood-linked imaging sign (vessel number) in separate screening cohorts. The goal is to personalize who gets screened, how often, and for how long, and to inform people eligible but unsure about screening through shared decision tools.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People at risk for lung cancer—for example current or former smokers or those already involved in or eligible for lung CT screening—would be the main candidates.
Not a fit: People with very low lung-cancer risk, those already diagnosed with advanced lung cancer, or those unwilling to provide blood samples or undergo CT scans are unlikely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to more personalized lung screening that catches cancers earlier while reducing unnecessary scans for low-risk people.
How similar studies have performed: Prior retrospective phase 3 studies showed promising results for the four-marker protein panel, but prospective validation in screening cohorts and integration with AI-based CT interpretation remain to be proven.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hanash, Samir M — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Hanash, Samir M
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.