NCT04739072 · M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Minimal Residual Disease Assessment in Patients With Colorectal Cancer, the MiRDA-C Study
What this study is about
This study investigates if circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and other tumor-related molecules/chemicals released in the blood can help doctors predict if colorectal cancer may come back or spread. Tumors shed DNA and other cancer related chemicals into the blood that can be identified and studied further to provide information about the cancer.
View original scientific description
This study investigates if circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and other tumor-related molecules/chemicals released in the blood can help doctors predict if colorectal cancer may come back or spread. Tumors shed DNA and other cancer related chemicals into the blood that can be identified and studied further to provide information about the cancer. Information gathered from this study may help researchers better understand if ctDNA found in the blood can predict whether colorectal cancer may come back or spread.
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
- Age ≥ 18 years.
- Histological/cytological confirmation of colorectal adenocarcinoma.
- Patients with any stage colorectal adenocarcinoma deemed potentially eligible for curative intent treatment. Patients with stages II-IV colorectal cancer post-R0 resection may also be enrolled onto the protocol any time before or up to 3 months post-surgery and prior to initiating adjuvant therapy.
- Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document.
- Willing to pursue standard of care surveillance post completion of curative therapies.
- Willing to provide blood samples for correlative research.
Exclusion criteria
- Known active malignancies other than colorectal adenocarcinoma that may interfere with detection and / or interpretation of circulating plasma markers. Patients with known clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential are eligible.
- Co-morbid systemic illnesses or other severe concurrent disease which, in the judgment of the investigator, would make the patient inappropriate for entry into this study.
Where
- Gilbert, Arizona
- Jacksonville, Florida
- Honolulu, Hawaii
- Boise, Idaho
- Camden, New Jersey
- Dallas, Texas
- Houston, Texas
- San Antonio, Texas
- Temple, 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 May 29, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations