DNA fingerprinting could solve the mystery of unknown primary cancers

NCT ID NCT06140992

Recruiting now Diagnosis Sponsor: Sun Yat-sen University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study is testing a new tool that uses DNA methylation patterns to figure out where a cancer started when doctors can't find the original tumor. Researchers will analyze tissue samples from 120 people with cancer of unknown primary. If it works, this could help guide more personalized treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: DNA methylation classifier (PaCIFiC-CUP)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could provide a new way to pinpoint the origin of hard-to-identify cancers, helping doctors choose more effective treatments.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study with only 120 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The classifier may not work for all cancer types or could be inaccurate.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cancer of unknown primary site Neoplasms, Unknown Primary

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

DNA METHYLATION UNKNOWN PRIMARY TUMORS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Sun Yat-sen university cancer center
RECRUITING

Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, China

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