NCT05179486 · M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Molecular Epidemiology of Biliary Tree Cancers
What this study is about
This study is to learn if certain risk factors (environmental, viral, behavioral, medical, and dietary), tumor markers, and genetic changes can predict the development and outcome of biliary tree cancers.
View original scientific description
This study is to learn if certain risk factors (environmental, viral, behavioral, medical, and dietary), tumor markers, and genetic changes can predict the development and outcome of biliary tree cancers. Establishing biomarkers models from patients may help doctors to further understand how biliary tree cancer is affected by different treatments, and why some people's cancer responds differently than others.
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
- Pathologically or radiologically confirmed diagnosis of CGC or GBC
- With or without prior radiation or chemotherapy
- All United States of America (USA) and non USA residents
- No age, gender, or racial restriction
- Healthy control with no current or history of cancer
- Healthy controls are USA and non USA residents
- Healthy controls are matched to the cases in age (5 years), gender, and race
- Healthy controls are friends and spouses of patients with other than gastro-intestinal (GI) cancers
- Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) controls with no current or history of cancer
- CLD controls are USA and non USA residents
- CLD controls are frequency matched to CGC cases by age (5 years), gender, and race
- CLD controls are patients are diagnosed with or without liver biopsy (core or fine needle aspiration)
- CLD controls must not have evidence liver cancer diagnosis by computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Where
- Houston, Texas
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 Apr 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations