Tracking minimal residual disease in cancer using advanced blood tests
Official title: Comprehensive minimal residual disease tracking in cancer
Funded at Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-10994176 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to find tiny amounts of cancer cells in the blood, which could help patients get better early detection, track how well their treatment is working, and adjust their care if needed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2018 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $444,440 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA221874-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994176 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients diagnosed with various types of cancer, particularly those with gliomas, gastric, and renal cancers, who may benefit from enhanced ctDNA detection methods.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers that are already well-managed with existing monitoring techniques may not receive additional benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the detection of minimal residual disease (MRD) in cancer patients through innovative liquid biopsy techniques. By analyzing circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in the blood, the study aims to enhance early cancer detection, monitor treatment effectiveness, and identify potential drug resistance. The research will explore advanced methods to detect ctDNA in cancers that are traditionally difficult to assess, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. Patients may benefit from more accurate monitoring of their cancer status and tailored treatment plans based on their individual disease dynamics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective monitoring and treatment strategies for cancer patients, improving their chances of long-term survival.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar liquid biopsy techniques, indicating potential for significant advancements in cancer monitoring.
Where this research is happening
-
Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Makrigiorgos, G. Mike — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Makrigiorgos, G. Mike
Related research
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This project uses AI-powered imaging and single-cell measurements to find treatments that could stop relapse in people with AML who are in remission but still have tiny amounts of disease.
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.