Actively Recruiting
Genetic and Molecular Basis of Pediatric Liver Cancer
Led by University of Pittsburgh · Updated on 2025-09-12
1600
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
52 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are investigating the molecular and genetic causes of childhood liver cancers, which are very rare. The study aims to improve how these cancers are classified by looking at their biology, genetic mechanisms, and predispositions, rather than just their appearance on scans or under a microscope. This could help explain why some cancers behave differently or have similar outcomes despite different classifications. The project collects biological samples such as leftover tumor tissue, saliva, and blood from children treated for liver tumors and their biological family members. These samples will be analyzed to study gene function in both tumor and non-tumor tissues. The goal is to group childhood liver cancers based on shared genetic defects and how these genes work. Participants provide biological samples and clinical information about the cancer. Researchers will measure gene sequencing, gene expression, genome-wide chromatin accessibility, epigenetic changes, and immune cell markers in the tumors. They will also track response to chemotherapy and recurrence-free survival up to two years after treatment. The study involves both retrospective and prospective data collection with long-term monitoring of outcomes.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Molecular Basis of Pediatric Liver Cancer
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Prior or current treatment for a childhood liver tumor, malignant or benign, at age <21 years.
- Biological parents and siblings of eligible children.
You will not qualify if you...
- No prior or current treatment for a childhood liver tumor.
- Non-biological parents, legal guardians, or non-biological siblings of eligible children.
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - At enrollment
Participants provide biological samples such as residual tumor tissue, saliva, or blood, along with clinical information about their cancer.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Up to 2 years after surgical treatment or chemotherapy
Participants are observed over time to study gene sequencing, gene expression, epigenetic changes, and tumor immune characteristics related to their cancer.
Visits scheduled as needed during routine follow-up care
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States, 15224
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
M
Morgan Paul, BSN
D
Daniel Pieratt, MPA
How is the study designed?
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Masking
N/A
Allocation
N/A
Model
N/A
Primary Purpose
N/A
Number of Arms
0
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