Improving lung cancer screening accuracy using blood tests

Improving risk stratification for lung cancer screening using peripheral blood leukocyte DNA methylation: an investigation in the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST)

['FUNDING_R01'] · TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON · NIH-11043330

This study is looking at how changes in DNA from blood samples can help find people who are at high risk for lung cancer before they get screened, making it easier to identify those who really need tests and improve the accuracy of results.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11043330 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how DNA methylation levels in blood leukocytes can help identify individuals at high risk for lung cancer before they undergo screening. By analyzing samples from participants in the National Lung Screening Trial, the study aims to create a tool that better categorizes risk, potentially reducing unnecessary scans. Additionally, it seeks to differentiate between true positive and false positive screening results based on DNA markers, which could lead to more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 50-80 with a history of smoking or significant exposure to lung cancer risk factors.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 50 or have no history of smoking or relevant risk factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate lung cancer screenings, reducing unnecessary procedures and improving early detection.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers for cancer risk stratification, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in lung cancer screening.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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 →

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.