NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how tumors develop in U.S. Veterans

Official title: Mutational processes underlying tumor development in United States Veterans

Funded at Philadelphia VA Medical Center · NIH-10975944 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain changes in genes cause cancer in U.S. Veterans, with the hope of finding new ways to improve cancer treatments that work better for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPhiladelphia VA Medical Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project startOctober 1, 2023
Project endSeptember 30, 2027
Funding year2024
NIH project number5I01CX002709-02
Project IDNIH-10975944 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are U.S. Veterans diagnosed with cancer who may benefit from advanced genomic analysis.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have a cancer diagnosis or are not U.S. Veterans may not receive any benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the mutational processes that lead to tumor development specifically in U.S. Veterans. By utilizing whole genome sequencing, the study aims to identify unique mutational signatures that contribute to cancer, which may not be captured by current clinical tests focusing on single genomic alterations. The goal is to develop new tumor biomarkers that can enhance precision oncology, ultimately leading to more effective treatment options for patients. This approach addresses the limitations of existing therapies that often fail to benefit a significant number of cancer patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer treatments tailored specifically for Veterans, enhancing their chances of successful outcomes.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying mutational signatures in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights, although it may also be considered a novel exploration in the context of Veteran populations.

Where this research is happening

  • Philadelphia VA Medical Center
    Philadelphia, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Maxwell, Kara N — Philadelphia VA Medical Center
  • Study coordinator: Maxwell, Kara N

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.