Using nanopore technology to identify DNA changes for early detection of colorectal cancer
Official title: Single-molecule nanopore-based identification of methylome signatures in cfDNA for early colorectal cancer detection
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-10866755 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at blood samples to find early signs of colorectal cancer by checking for special patterns in DNA, using a new method that could help catch the disease sooner and more accurately than current tests.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $639,780 |
| NIH project number | 1U01CA282212-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10866755 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for colorectal cancer, including those with a family history or genetic predispositions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for colorectal cancer or those with advanced cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on analyzing cell-free DNA (cfDNA) to detect early signs of colorectal cancer through a novel nanopore-based sequencing method. By examining the methylation patterns in cfDNA, the study aims to improve the sensitivity and accuracy of cancer detection compared to traditional methods. Patients' blood samples will be analyzed to identify specific epigenetic markers associated with early-stage cancer, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment. The approach seeks to overcome limitations of existing sequencing techniques that can introduce biases and inaccuracies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of colorectal cancer, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using cfDNA for cancer detection, but this nanopore-based approach represents a novel method that has not been widely tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ji, Hanlee P — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Ji, Hanlee P
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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.