Using blood samples to identify lung cancer cells without invasive biopsies

Microfluidic sorting of lung cancer cells from leukapheresis product as an alternative to metastatic tumor biopsy

['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-10894200

This study is testing a new way to find lung cancer cells in blood samples using a special technique that collects more blood without surgery, making it easier to keep track of how the cancer is doing and how well treatments are working.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10894200 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a method to isolate lung cancer cells from blood samples, specifically using leukapheresis, which allows for the collection of a larger volume of blood. By employing advanced microfluidic technology, the study aims to efficiently separate cancer cells from other blood components without the need for invasive surgical biopsies. This approach could enable more accurate monitoring of cancer progression and treatment response through non-invasive means, providing real-time insights into the patient's condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with lung cancer who require ongoing monitoring of their disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with lung cancer or those who are not undergoing treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to less invasive and more accurate diagnostic methods for lung cancer, improving patient care and treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using liquid biopsies for cancer diagnostics, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in the field.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.