QuicDNA Max Research Programme – multi site, multi-centre, non-interventional, biomarker platform study. Assessing blood based ctDNA (circulating tumour) testing to guide cancer care across multiple cancer types
The QuicDNA Max study is a research programme looking into a new blood test, called a liquid biopsy, for people with suspected or confirmed advanced cancer. This test searches for tiny pieces of cancer DNA in your blood to help doctors understand your cancer better. This could help them choose the right treatments for you and track how your cancer is responding over time. The study aims to see how well this blood test works compared to standard tissue biopsies, how quickly results are available, and if these results can guide treatment decisions. It's for people aged 16 or over with advanced cancer, who are already receiving care in participating NHS hospitals in Wales.
At a glance
What is this study about?
The QuicDNA Max study is a new research programme investigating how a simple blood test, often called a "liquid biopsy," can help doctors care for people with cancer. Normally, to understand someone's cancer, doctors might need a tissue biopsy, which involves taking a small sample directly from the tumour. However, for some individuals, this might be difficult, slow, or not possible at all.
This study aims to discover if a blood test, which looks for little bits of cancer DNA circulating in the blood, can provide similar important information. This information could help doctors make more informed decisions about treatment, choose which therapies might work best, and monitor how the cancer is changing or responding to treatment as time goes on. It's hoped this blood test could be a quicker and easier way to get these crucial details.
The main goal is to find out just how useful this blood test is for people who have been diagnosed with cancer that is advanced or getting worse. Researchers will compare how well this blood test works against the usual tissue tests, how quickly results come back, and whether the information gathered can genuinely help doctors decide on the best care plan for each patient.
Key takeaways
- It's a research study exploring a new blood test for advanced cancer.
- The blood test looks for cancer DNA in your blood to help understand the cancer.
- It aims to find quicker, easier ways to get information compared to tissue biopsies.
- Participation involves giving blood samples during routine visits.
- Your current cancer care will not be affected by taking part.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time.
Who may be eligible?
You might be able to join the QuicDNA Max study if you are 16 years old or older and have cancer that doctors suspect is advanced, or if it's already confirmed that your cancer is advanced or progressing. You also need to be well enough to attend hospital visits and provide a blood sample when needed.
Importantly, only people who are currently receiving care from one of the participating NHS hospitals or clinics in Wales will be invited to take part. Researchers cannot accept healthy volunteers for this study.
There are also some general health requirements that your doctor will check against, to make sure you are suitable for the study. For instance, your cancer doctor will assess your overall physical well-being to determine if you meet the specific health criteria for participation.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 16 years old or older?
- Do you have a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of advanced or progressing cancer?
- Are you well enough to attend clinic visits and give blood samples?
- Are you currently receiving care at an NHS hospital or clinic in Wales taking part in this study?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in the QuicDNA Max study, you will be asked to provide a blood sample. This will usually happen during one of your regular hospital appointments, so it shouldn't require an extra trip. The blood sample will then be checked for small pieces of cancer DNA.
The important thing to remember is that this blood test won't replace your usual care, and it won't change your treatment on its own. Your doctors may still use information from original tissue biopsies if they have it. The study team will also collect some information from your medical records, like your scan results and details of treatments you've received. They will continue to collect this information over a period, which could be up to three years. You can choose to leave the study at any time, and this will not affect the care you receive.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Centre for Trials ResearchUnverifiedCardiff, Wales
Common questions
What is a liquid biopsy?
A liquid biopsy is a simple blood test that looks for tiny fragments of cancer DNA circulating in your bloodstream. This DNA comes from your tumour cells.
Will this study change my cancer treatment?
No, this study will not directly change your current cancer treatment. The blood test results are for research purposes to explore their usefulness, not to replace your doctor's decisions.
How long will I be involved in the study?
If you take part, the study team may follow your progress and collect information from your medical records for up to three years.
Are there any physical risks to taking part?
The main physical risk is from giving a blood sample, which might cause a little discomfort or bruising. More serious issues like infection are very rare.
Where is this study happening?
The study is being run in NHS hospitals and clinics across Wales, including Velindre Cancer Centre.
How to find out more
Georgina Gardner
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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