Improving leukemia diagnosis in low-resource settings using new sequencing technology

Novel Sequencing Based Diagnostics for Leukemia in Low Resource Settings

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-10646165

This study is testing a new, affordable way to help doctors in Malawi accurately identify different types of leukemia, so they can choose the best treatments for patients, even in places with fewer resources.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10646165 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the diagnosis of leukemia in low and middle-income countries where access to advanced diagnostic tools is limited. By developing a cost-effective sequencing method using Oxford Nanopore RNA sequencing, the project seeks to provide accurate differentiation between types of leukemia and improve treatment selection. The approach involves minimal capital investment and requires limited training, making it feasible for local implementation. The research will test this innovative method in Malawi to assess its effectiveness in real-world settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and young adults diagnosed with leukemia in low and middle-income countries.

Not a fit: Patients in high-resource settings with access to advanced diagnostic technologies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve leukemia diagnosis and treatment outcomes for patients in low-resource settings.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using novel sequencing technologies for cancer diagnosis, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

CHAPEL HILL, 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 →

Conditions: Cancers, neoplasm/cancer

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.