Circulating Tumor DNA for Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores a new method to detect cancer recurrence early by using circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). ctDNA consists of tiny fragments of a tumor's DNA found in the blood. By identifying these early signs, doctors aim to enhance treatment options and outcomes for patients with solid tumors. The trial is suitable for healthy individuals aged 18 and older. As a Phase 2 trial, it measures the effectiveness of this approach in an initial, smaller group, offering participants the opportunity to contribute to potentially groundbreaking cancer detection methods.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is safe for earlier detection of disease recurrence?
Research has shown that using circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is generally safe for patients. Studies have examined ctDNA to assess treatment effectiveness in various cancers, such as lung, colorectal, and breast cancers. These studies have not identified any major safety issues with ctDNA. Instead, they focus on ctDNA's ability to detect cancer recurrence early.
Although ctDNA is a newer method, the absence of serious side effects in these studies suggests it is safe for patients. Additionally, ctDNA is being considered to enhance the monitoring and adjustment of cancer treatments, potentially leading to better patient outcomes.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about using circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for early treatment response assessment of solid tumors because it offers a non-invasive way to monitor how well a treatment is working. Unlike traditional methods that require imaging or biopsies, ctDNA can be detected in a simple blood test, making it quicker and easier for both patients and doctors. This approach can potentially provide real-time feedback on treatment effectiveness, allowing for faster adjustments if a therapy isn’t working, ultimately leading to more personalized and timely cancer care.
What evidence suggests that circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is effective for earlier detection of disease recurrence?
Research has shown that a blood test for circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) can effectively monitor the effectiveness of cancer treatments. One study found ctDNA in 91.2% of patients before surgery, a much higher rate than another common cancer marker. This suggests ctDNA might be more reliable for detecting cancer. Another study discovered that patients whose ctDNA was undetectable during treatment had an 88.4% chance of being cancer-free for two years. These findings indicate that ctDNA can serve as a strong early sign of treatment success and could aid in creating personalized care plans.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Melissa Reimers, M.D.
Principal Investigator
Washington University School of Medicine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants are monitored for early treatment response using circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for solid tumors
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Circulating Tumor DNA (ctDNA)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Washington University School of Medicine
Lead Sponsor
National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NCATS)
Collaborator
Roche Sequencing Solutions
Industry Sponsor
The V Foundation for Cancer Research
Collaborator
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Collaborator
Radiological Society of North America
Collaborator
National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)
Collaborator
The Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital
Collaborator
Skandalaris
Collaborator