Improving early detection of prostate cancer in African American men
Reducing prostate cancer mortality in African American men by early disease detection using DNA fragmentation profiles and methylated DNA patterns of plasma derived cell free DNA
This study is looking for a gentle and easy way to spot prostate cancer early in African American men, who are more likely to face serious health issues from the disease, by using advanced DNA testing on blood samples to find signs of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10951041 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a minimally invasive method to detect prostate cancer early in African American men, who are at a higher risk of severe outcomes compared to other populations. The approach utilizes advanced DNA analysis techniques on plasma samples to identify specific patterns that indicate the presence of cancer. By analyzing the fragmentation and methylation profiles of cell-free DNA, the study aims to enhance early diagnosis, which is crucial for improving survival rates. The goal is to implement these next-generation sequencing methods to facilitate timely intervention and reduce mortality associated with prostate cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American men who are at risk for or have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Not a fit: Patients who are not African American or those who do not have prostate cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly lower prostate cancer mortality rates among African American men by enabling earlier diagnosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using DNA fragmentation and methylation patterns for cancer detection, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Szallasi, Zoltan — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Szallasi, Zoltan
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.