NCT05530759 · Mayo Clinic
Examining Blood and Tissue Samples to Identify Diagnostic Markers in Patients With Metastatic Cancer Undergoing Tumor Removal
What this study is about
This study characterizes deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and proteomic (protein) changes in both biopsies and tumors removed during surgery of patients who have been diagnosed with aggressive/metastatic (that has spread to other places in the body) cancer in order to identify possible diagnostic markers and potential drugs for treating aggressive tumor types.
View original scientific description
This study characterizes deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and proteomic (protein) changes in both biopsies and tumors removed during surgery of patients who have been diagnosed with aggressive/metastatic (that has spread to other places in the body) cancer in order to identify possible diagnostic markers and potential drugs for treating aggressive tumor types. Proteomic analyses include looking at the proteome, or all the proteins expressed, or made by DNA at a specific moment in time. Studying samples of blood, buccal (cheek), and tissue in the laboratory from patients undergoing surgical resection or biopsy may help doctors learn more about the changes that occur in the proteome, DNA alterations, and identify molecular biomarkers for which therapeutic drugs may exist. Studying the DNA in tumor tissue and in blood may also help researchers see if the tumor has important differences.
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
- Patients (or the legally authorized representative/guardian signing on behalf of the participant) must understand and provide written informed consent prior to initiation of any study-specific procedures
- \>= 18 years of age
- Patients must have a diagnosis of confirmed malignancy
- Patient is a good medical candidate for a standard of care biopsy or surgical procedure to obtain tissue or has archival tissue available for analysis
Exclusion criteria
- Uncontrolled concurrent illness including psychiatric illness, or situations that would limit compliance with the study requirements or the ability to willingly give written informed consent
- Inaccessible tumor for biopsy or patient does not have tumor tissue available for research use
- Biopsy must not be considered to be more than minimal risk to the patient. Contraindications to percutaneous biopsy:
- Significant coagulopathy that cannot be adequately corrected
- Severely compromised cardiopulmonary function or hemodynamic instability
- Lack of a safe pathway to the lesion
- Inability of the patient to cooperate with, or to be positioned for, the procedure
Where
- Rochester, Minnesota
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 Jun 9, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations