Monitoring cancer outcomes using blood tests for DNA analysis
Official title: Comprehensive monitoring of diverse cancer outcomes using genomic and epigenomic sequencing of cfDNA
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11054178 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help cancer patients keep track of their health by looking at tiny bits of DNA in their blood, making it easier and less invasive to check for any signs of cancer returning or side effects from treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $128,509 |
| NIH project number | 1K99CA290092-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11054178 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include cancer patients undergoing treatment who require monitoring for disease progression or treatment-related complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not currently undergoing cancer treatment or those with non-cancerous conditions may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving cancer monitoring through the analysis of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) found in blood samples. By developing a new computational system called TreatMonitor, the project aims to provide a noninvasive and comprehensive method for detecting minimal residual disease, cancer recurrence, and treatment side effects. The approach utilizes advanced techniques, including deep learning, to analyze genetic information from cfDNA, allowing for sensitive and accurate monitoring of various cancer-related outcomes. Patients will benefit from a more effective way to track their cancer status and treatment effects without the need for invasive procedures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of cancer recurrence and better management of treatment side effects for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using cfDNA for cancer monitoring, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Shuo — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Li, Shuo
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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.