New method to detect liver cancer using tiny particles in the blood
Official title: Click Chemistry-Mediated Surface Protein Assay for Quantifying Subpopulations of Hepatocellular Carcinoma-associated Extracellular Vesicles
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10867418 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny particles in the blood that come from liver cancer cells to see if they can help doctors find liver cancer earlier, making it easier to treat.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 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 | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $628,431 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA277530-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10867418 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for hepatocellular carcinoma, such as those with liver cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis B virus infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with liver cancer who are already diagnosed and undergoing treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a common type of liver cancer, by analyzing extracellular vesicles (EVs) found in the blood. These EVs, which are released by tumor cells, carry surface proteins that may reflect the presence of cancer. The study aims to develop a specialized assay to quantify these HCC-associated EVs, potentially providing a more accurate and accessible biomarker for early diagnosis compared to current methods. By enhancing the detection capabilities, the research seeks to identify HCC at earlier stages when treatment options are more effective.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of liver cancer, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using extracellular vesicles as biomarkers for various cancers, suggesting that this approach may be effective for liver cancer as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Yazhen — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Yazhen
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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.