Investigating how extrachromosomal DNA affects cancer growth and treatment resistance

eDyNAmiC - STANFORD

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10625716

This study is looking into how a special type of DNA called extrachromosomal DNA helps cancer grow and become tougher to treat, with the goal of finding new ways to target it for better treatments for cancer patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10625716 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) in cancer, which allows tumor-promoting genes to escape from chromosomes and form circular DNA structures. These ecDNAs enable tumors to grow aggressively and evolve rapidly, making them more resistant to treatments. The study aims to uncover how ecDNAs function, how they contribute to cancer progression, and how they can be targeted for more effective therapies. By collaborating with a team of experts, the research seeks to fill critical gaps in knowledge about ecDNA and its implications for cancer patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients whose tumors contain extrachromosomal DNA.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not involve extrachromosomal DNA may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that specifically target ecDNA, potentially improving survival rates for cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the concept of ecDNA has been recognized for decades, this research is pioneering in its comprehensive approach to understanding and targeting ecDNA in cancer treatment.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.
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.