Using blood tests to detect cancer-causing mutations from environmental exposures
Leveraging mutational analysis of cell-free DNA to identify carcinogenic exposure and enable early detection of cancer
This study is looking to create a simple blood test that can spot specific changes in your DNA caused by harmful substances in the environment, helping to catch cancer earlier without needing invasive procedures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11099951 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a blood-based tool that can identify specific mutations in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) linked to exposure to environmental carcinogens like aflatoxin B1 and N-nitrosodimethylamine. By analyzing the unique mutational patterns that arise shortly after exposure, the study seeks to create a non-invasive method for early cancer detection. Patients will provide blood samples, which will be analyzed to detect these mutational fingerprints, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and intervention. This approach addresses the current limitations of invasive tissue sampling and traditional DNA sequencing methods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been exposed to known carcinogens and are at risk for developing cancer.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to environmental carcinogens or those with no risk factors for cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable earlier detection of cancer, improving treatment outcomes for patients exposed to harmful environmental agents.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using mutational analysis for cancer detection, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in the field.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fedeles, Bogdan I — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Fedeles, Bogdan I
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.