Using blood tests to improve cancer detection and treatment

Leveraging canine spontaneous cancer to optimize the power of blood biopsy

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER · NIH-11088134

This study is exploring a new, easier way to check for cancer by using a simple blood test to look for bits of tumor DNA, which can help doctors find the best treatments and keep track of how well they’re working for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WORCESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11088134 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a less invasive method called 'blood biopsy' to analyze circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from cancer patients. By examining ctDNA, the research aims to identify actionable mutations that can guide treatment decisions, monitor disease progression, and predict patient outcomes. The study addresses challenges such as standardizing blood collection and processing, optimizing analysis techniques, and correlating ctDNA data with clinical results. This innovative approach could enhance cancer screening and treatment personalization for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with various types of cancer who are undergoing treatment or are at risk of recurrence.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not currently undergoing cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and timely cancer diagnoses and tailored treatment plans for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using blood biopsies for cancer detection, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements in oncology.

Where this research is happening

WORCESTER, 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 →

Conditions: anti-cancer therapy, anti-cancer treatment

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.