Tracking immune responses after blood stem cell transplants using blood tests
Epigenetic Profiling of circulating cell-free DNA for the Monitoring of Graft-Versus-Host Disease after Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
This study is working on a simple blood test that can help people who have had blood stem cell transplants by spotting early signs of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) without needing painful biopsies, making it easier for patients to keep track of their health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10754512 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the diagnosis of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a common complication after blood stem cell transplants. By analyzing circulating cell-free DNA in the blood, the study aims to develop a non-invasive blood test that can detect early signs of GVHD and predict long-term outcomes for patients. This approach seeks to replace the need for invasive procedures like biopsies, making it easier and safer for patients to monitor their condition. The research will utilize genome-wide profiling to identify specific markers associated with tissue injury caused by GVHD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation who are at risk for developing graft-versus-host disease.
Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone hematopoietic cell transplantation or those who are not at risk for GVHD may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a safer, more effective method for early detection of GVHD, improving patient outcomes after transplantation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using cfDNA for monitoring various conditions, suggesting that this approach may be effective for GVHD as well.
Where this research is happening
Ithaca, United States
- Cornell University — Ithaca, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: De Vlaminck, Iwijn — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: De Vlaminck, Iwijn
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.