RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Measurement of MMP-14 Protein, a Potential New Marker for Colorectal Cancer Detection, in Plasma Vesicles Named Exosomes

Doctors are studying a new blood test to help find bowel cancer and polyps more easily. Currently, many people with a positive stool test (FIT test) have a colonoscopy, but often nothing serious is found. This study is investigating a protein called MMP-14, found in tiny packets released by cells, to see if it can accurately show who really needs a colonoscopy and who doesn't. They will collect blood samples from people already having a colonoscopy after a positive FIT test. The aim is to find out if measuring MMP-14 in the blood can be a reliable new way to screen for bowel cancer, potentially reducing the number of invasive procedures.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

CHU de Reims

Enrolment target

650

Start

02 Apr 2026

Estimated completion

02 Apr 2028

Colorectal Adenocarcinoma

What is this study about?

Bowel cancer is a common type of cancer, and finding it early can make a big difference. Currently, if you have a positive stool test (called a FIT test) that checks for hidden blood, you'll usually be advised to have a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to look inside your bowel. While it’s very effective, it can be uncomfortable, and many people who have a FIT test come back positive don't actually have cancer or serious polyps. This means many colonoscopies are done unnecessarily.

This study is looking for a better way to decide who really needs a colonoscopy. Researchers are focusing on a specific protein called MMP-14, which is found in tiny packages called 'exosomes' that are released by cells, including cancer cells. They think that higher levels of MMP-14 in the blood might be a sign of bowel cancer or pre-cancerous polyps. By identifying this protein, they hope to develop a simple blood test that can tell doctors if a person with a positive FIT test is more likely to have a problem that needs further investigation with a colonoscopy.

The main goal is to find the best level of MMP-14 that indicates someone might have bowel cancer or polyps. They'll compare the results of the blood test with what is found during the colonoscopy. If successful, this new blood test could help doctors make more informed decisions, potentially reducing the number of unnecessary colonoscopies for people who have had a positive FIT test, making the screening process less invasive and more targeted.

Key takeaways

Researchers are testing a new blood test for bowel cancer.
It aims to reduce unnecessary colonoscopies for people with positive stool tests.
The test looks for a specific protein called MMP-14 in your blood.
Participation involves providing two small extra blood samples.
This research could make bowel cancer screening less invasive in the future.

Who may be eligible?

You might be able to take part in this study if you are an adult who is already scheduled for a colonoscopy because your stool test (FIT test) came back positive for blood. You also need to agree to be part of the study and sign a consent form, and be covered by a health insurance plan.

However, you won't be able to join if you've had another type of cancer in the last five years that isn't fully cured (except for certain skin cancers or cervical cancer). People who are currently having chemotherapy treatment, or those who are considered legally vulnerable, also cannot participate.

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 18 or older?
Are you scheduled for a colonoscopy because of a positive FIT test?
Do you not have another type of cancer (except specific skin/cervical cancers that are cured)?
Are you currently not having chemotherapy?
Are you prepared to sign a consent form?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll join 650 other patients in this study. The main step for you will be to provide two extra blood samples. This blood will be taken at the same time as any other blood tests you might have, or when a drip is put in for your colonoscopy, which usually happens when you're preparing for the procedure under general anaesthetic. Each blood sample will be about 5ml, which is roughly a teaspoonful. These samples will then be carefully stored and analysed to measure the amount of the MMP-14 protein. There are no extra hospital visits or medications involved specifically for this study. The total duration of your participation will be limited to providing these blood samples and linking them to your colonoscopy results.

Potential risks and benefits

The main benefit of taking part is helping to advance medical research that could lead to a less invasive way to screen for bowel cancer in the future, potentially reducing the number of colonoscopies for many people. The risks are very low; they involve the usual, minor discomfort of having blood drawn, such as a small bruise or slight pain at the needle site. You are completely free to change your mind and withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Damien JOLLY
Verified postcode
Reims, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is a FIT test?

A FIT test is a simple stool test that checks for tiny amounts of blood in your poo, which can sometimes be a sign of bowel problems, including cancer.

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a procedure where a doctor uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside your entire large bowel (colon).

What is MMP-14?

MMP-14 is a specific protein that researchers think might be present in higher amounts when bowel cancer or polyps are present, and they can find it in your blood.

Will I get my MMP-14 results?

The study aims to generally improve screening methods; individual results for MMP-14 will be used for research and won't be given back to participants.

Will this study affect my colonoscopy?

No, your colonoscopy will proceed as planned, and you will receive the results as usual. This study is just collecting additional information.

How to find out more

Laurent RAMONT

lramont@chu-reims.fr 03 26 78 78 01 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.