Using blood tests to classify brain tumors more accurately
Official title: Molecular subtyping of brain tumors using a blood-based multiplexed assay
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11130843 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new blood test called GLIscan that helps doctors find and track brain tumors called gliomas by looking for specific genetic changes in your blood, making it easier and less invasive than traditional tissue biopsies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 3, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $678,228 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA291826-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11130843 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with gliomas who may benefit from a less invasive diagnostic approach.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with brain tumors that are not classified as gliomas may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a blood-based assay called GLIscan to improve the diagnosis and monitoring of gliomas, a type of brain tumor. By utilizing liquid biopsy techniques, the study aims to identify specific genetic mutations associated with gliomas without the need for invasive tissue biopsies. The approach leverages advanced digital PCR technology to detect rare mutations in the blood, providing a more comprehensive view of the tumor's genetic profile. This method could enhance therapeutic decision-making and improve patient outcomes by allowing for more personalized treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and less invasive methods for diagnosing and monitoring brain tumors, ultimately improving patient care.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with liquid biopsy techniques in cancer diagnostics, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Balaj, Leonora — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Balaj, Leonora
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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.