Identifying genetic factors in familial papillary thyroid cancer

A Strategy to Search for Genes Predisposing to Papillary Carcinoma of the Thyroid When Mutated

Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center · NCT02776969

This study is trying to find out if certain genes are linked to familial papillary thyroid cancer by looking at family histories and samples from affected individuals and their relatives.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorOhio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center (other)
Locations1 site (Columbus, Ohio)
Trial IDNCT02776969 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to uncover genetic risk factors linked to familial papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), a cancer known for its high heritability. The study employs various methodologies, including loss of heterozygosity studies and comparative gene expression analysis, to identify potential genetic causes. Participants will provide family and medical histories, as well as blood or saliva samples for genetic analysis. The study also seeks to involve family members of affected individuals to enhance the understanding of genetic links.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients diagnosed with PTC who have a family history of the disease in three or more living relatives.

Not a fit: Patients with known germline predispositions or those who do not speak English may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved genetic screening and risk assessment for familial papillary thyroid cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have successfully identified genetic factors in familial cancers, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with a diagnosis of PTC and a family history of PTC in 3 or more living relatives
* Affected and unaffected family members of the proband\*

  * For familial cases (families with 4 or more cases of PTC), participation will be offered to all living family members with PTC or benign thyroid disease as well as selected unaffected first and second degree relatives. Participation may also be offered to spouses when needed for analyzing parent/offspring samples.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Known germline predisposition (ex: pathogenic PTEN variant)
* Non-English speaking

Where this trial is running

Columbus, Ohio

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Thyroid, Papillary Carcinoma, Gene Hunting, Familial

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.