NCT07025785 · UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
Molecular Residual Disease Assessment in a Representative Diverse Population of Patients With Early-stage Breast Cancer
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to determine how circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), a sign of minimal residual disease (MRD), is detectable after surgery in patients with early HR+/HER2- breast cancer that has spread to 1-3 lymph nodes. Researchers aim to understand if ctDNA detection can identify patients at higher risk of recurrence and guide better treatment decisions.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to determine how circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), a sign of minimal residual disease (MRD), is detectable after surgery in patients with early HR+/HER2- breast cancer that has spread to 1-3 lymph nodes. Researchers aim to understand if ctDNA detection can identify patients at higher risk of recurrence and guide better treatment decisions. A key aspect is the inclusion of a dedicated cohort of African American/Black women, a group underrepresented in molecular residual disease (MRD) research despite experiencing more aggressive breast cancers. This study will correlate ctDNA results with treatment patterns (radiotherapy, systemic therapy) and outcomes (recurrence-free and overall survival) in both non-African American and African American participants.
Interventions
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
Circulating tumor DNA
Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is a noninvasive prognostic biomarker for disease monitoring. ). Blood collection for ctDNA testing will be performed at the time of enrollment (prior to initiation of adjuvant therapy), and every three months thereafter.
Primary outcome measures
Number of participants have post-operative circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) positive
Time frame: Baseline
Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) will be tested and a number of participants who were tested for positive ctDNA status. Post-operative ctDNA status will be categorized as either detectable or undetectable.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Written informed consent obtained to participate in the study and HIPAA authorization for release of personal health information.
- Subjects are willing and able to comply with study procedures based on the judgment of the investigator.
- Age ≥ 18 years at time of consent.
- Subject must have had surgical intervention and must have sufficient archival specimens from either the primary tumor or a lymph node for ctDNA assay development, as specified in the lab manual.
Exclusion criteria
- Subjects must not have had prior neoadjuvant therapy.
- Evidence of metastatic disease in imaging.
- N1 mic or isolated tumor cells in the lymph nodes
Where
- Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Collaborators
Haystack Oncology, Inc.
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jan 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations