Michigan–Vanderbilt center for prostate cancer biomarker tests
Michigan-VUMC Biomarker Characterization Center
They are developing urine and lab tests to spot aggressive prostate cancer earlier in men with elevated PSA or other risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11163349 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project will create and improve urine-based and laboratory assays that detect prostate cancer-specific RNA and other markers. The team builds on the existing MyProstateScore test (which measures TMPRSS2:ERG and PCA3) and will add new biomarkers linked to high-grade disease to improve accuracy. Assays will be optimized in a CLIA-certified lab and then clinically validated at partner hospitals so results can be used by doctors. The aim is to produce reliable tests that help decide who needs a biopsy or early curative treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Men with elevated PSA, an abnormal digital rectal exam, or other concerns about prostate cancer who are considering biopsy would be the main candidates.
Not a fit: Men without prostate symptoms or risk factors, and those with widely metastatic disease beyond curative options, are unlikely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these tests could find aggressive prostate cancers earlier and reduce unnecessary biopsies for men with low risk.
How similar studies have performed: Related work has already produced the clinically used MyProstateScore test, so this builds on proven approaches while adding new biomarkers.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chinnaiyan, Arul M — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Chinnaiyan, Arul 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.