Using blood samples to analyze breast cancer cells for better treatment options
High-flow microfluidics of leukapheresis blood products for functional analysis of breast circulating tumor cells
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11003696
This study is looking at how to make cancer treatment better for people with triple negative metastatic breast cancer by using blood tests to find and study cancer cells, which could help doctors create more personalized treatment plans just for you.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11003696 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving cancer treatment by using liquid biopsies, which involve analyzing blood samples to monitor tumor-derived materials. Specifically, it aims to enhance the isolation of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from patients with triple negative metastatic breast cancer by utilizing a process called leukapheresis, which allows for the collection of larger blood volumes. By increasing the number of CTCs available for analysis, the research seeks to establish cultures that can provide insights into the tumor's genetic makeup and drug sensitivity, ultimately leading to more personalized treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with triple negative metastatic breast cancer who are undergoing multiple therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those not diagnosed with triple negative metastatic breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized cancer therapies for patients with metastatic breast cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using liquid biopsies for cancer monitoring, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in personalized oncology.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TONER, MEHMET — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: TONER, MEHMET
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.
Conditions: anti-cancer therapy