Using focused ultrasound to improve blood tests for brain tumors

Optimizing non-invasive focused ultrasound for brain tumor liquid biopsy in a rat glioma model - Phase I

NIH-funded research Cordance Medical, INC. · NIH-11008268

This study is testing a new way to help brain cancer patients by using sound waves to safely open a barrier in the brain, making it easier to check for important markers in their blood without needing a surgery.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 1 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCordance Medical, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Mountain View, United States)
Project IDNIH-11008268 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new method called the NeuroAccess system, which uses focused ultrasound and microbubbles to non-invasively open the blood-brain barrier. This allows important biomarkers, such as cell-free DNA, to enter the bloodstream, making it easier to perform liquid biopsies in brain cancer patients. The study aims to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this method by testing it in a rat model, focusing on optimizing the procedure and measuring biomarker levels. If successful, this approach could provide a less invasive alternative to traditional tissue biopsies for brain tumor patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with brain tumors who may benefit from less invasive diagnostic methods.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have brain tumors or those who are not eligible for liquid biopsy procedures may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective blood tests for diagnosing and monitoring brain tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using non-invasive techniques for liquid biopsies, but this specific approach is novel and untested in the context of brain tumors.

Where this research is happening

Mountain View, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.