Major Milestone Reached in PSC Cancer Risk Study
Major Milestone Reached in PSC Cancer Risk Study
Dr Rodrigo Motta
This important research project, funded by PSC Support, has successfully completed a critical sample collection phase, bringing scientists closer to developing a non-invasive method for the early detection of bile duct cancer (cholangiocarcinoma, or CCA)) in people with PSC. This work directly aligns with PSC Support’s strategy to accelerate the development of tools that can detect cancers early and with certainty.
What is the progress of the DNA methylation study?
The research team, led by Dr. Rodrigo Motta at the University of Oxford, has successfully completed the extensive collection of plasma samples. A total of 100 plasma samples from five different patient cohorts have now been collected, marking a significant step towards the analysis phase of the project. This is a vital stage, as it ensures the researchers have a broad and relevant set of biological material to investigate. If you’ve ever donated a sample to research during a procedure, thank you. This kind of research cannot take place without such samples.
Which patient samples have been collected?
The comprehensive collection of samples is designed to allow for detailed comparison, helping researchers to pinpoint changes that are specific to the development of CCA in people with PSC. The 100 samples collected between April and September 2025 were separated into five distinct groups:
- 20 samples from patients with cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer).
- 20 samples from PSC patients considered to be at high risk of bile duct cancer.
- 20 samples from PSC patients considered to be at low risk of bile duct cancer.
- 20 samples from patients with ulcerative colitis.
- 20 healthy control samples.
What is the next step for the research?
The next phase involves transferring the samples to the University of Oxford for advanced analysis. The team will be using a new, state-of-the-art technology to study subtle changes around the DNA, known as DNA methylation. This non-invasive method is highly sensitive and efficient, enabling researchers to gain extensive insight from very small volumes of blood. Dr. Motta confirmed this progress:
“We collected and separated plasma samples from 100 patients between April and September 2025... These samples are going to be analysed using a new technology developed at the University of Oxford. This technology allows us to study changes around the DNA without damaging it too much, therefore even small samples (3mL) can give us plenty of information to look for early signs of cancer.” Dr. Motta.
As part of our Mission 2030 research strategy, this work directly addresses the critical need for a reliable screening method for people with PSC. The ultimate goal of this project is to develop a reliable, non-invasive blood test that can be used to screen for cancer in people with PSC, helping to catch complications much earlier.
Turning Ambition into Action in 2026:
Our Fortnight in Focus
At PSC Support, we want a world without PSC. We work tirelessly behind the scenes to drive research and improve lives. Here is a snapshot of what we've been up to:
Building Partnerships: We worked with PSC Partners Seeking a Cure to align our efforts for Rare Disease Day, increasing our global impact for PSC patients
Empowering our Community: We confirmed expert speakers for our 2026 Information Day, ensuring our community can hear the latest medical insights directly from PSC specialists.
Empowering our Community: We met with our dedicated community moderators to ensure our online support spaces remain safe, welcoming, and helpful for everyone.
Improving Care: We progressed a major initiative to standardise PSC care across the UK, advocating for every patient to receive high-quality care.
Organisational Excellence: Our new leadership team met to ensure our resources are focused on activities that have the most impact.
Organisational Excellence: We secured charity places in the 2026 Amsterdam Marathon, expanding our international fundraising opportunities to power future research and support.
Empowering our Community: We filled all of our Great North Run places with amazing fundraisers who are committed to raising crucial funds for our small charity!
Progressing Research: We collaborated with European liver disease experts at ERN-RARE-LIVER to plan PSC-focused sessions for an upcoming international rare disease conference.