ECRF Announces First Seed-Funded Research Project
October 2026
ECRF awards early-stage financial support for research exploring a less-invasive method to detect endometrial cancer in women with Lynch syndrome.
The Endometrial Cancer Research Foundation (ECRF) announces its inaugural seed-funded research project, supporting Anicka AbiChedid, a Ph.D. candidate in the Cell and Molecular Biology program at Duke University School of Medicine, for her project titled “Development of a Less-Invasive Screening Method for Endometrial Cancer.”
Founded in 2025, ECRF is committed to advancing endometrial cancer research, awareness, and advocacy.
Administered by the Duke Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, the Seed Fund offers early-stage financial support to develop and evaluate promising research approaches. This funding enables researchers to generate the preliminary data needed to pursue larger grants and future clinical studies.
Development of a Less-Invasive Screening Method for Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancer develops in the inner lining of the uterus and is the most common gynecologic cancer in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 68,270 new cases of uterine cancer will be diagnosed in 2026, with more than 90% arising in the endometrium.
Women with Lynch syndrome have an inherited genetic change that significantly increases their risk of developing endometrial cancer. Depending on the genetic alteration, their estimated risk by age 65 ranges from 13% to 38%. Cancers associated with Lynch syndrome often exhibit a characteristic pattern of DNA changes known as microsatellite instability (MSI), an important biomarker that can help determine eligibility for certain immunotherapy treatments.
However, detecting these cancers early remains challenging, as current screening methods have limited sensitivity for early-stage disease and may involve invasive procedures.
To address these challenges, Anicka’s project aims to develop a less-invasive blood-based screening method using an ultra-sensitive DNA sequencing approach known as MSI-MDS. By detecting MSI in blood samples, the research seeks to improve early detection of endometrial cancer in women with Lynch syndrome.
With ECRF’s seed funding, the project will further develop the assay, evaluate its sensitivity and specificity, and conduct preliminary testing in a small cohort of MSI-high cancers. These initial findings are intended to support future research and larger clinical studies.
About the Researcher
Anicka AbiChedid is a Ph.D. candidate in the Cell and Molecular Biology program at Duke University. Under the mentorship of Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. Christopher Counter, Anicka develops and applies ultra-sensitive DNA sequencing technologies to detect cancer-associated genetic changes.
As a PI fellow, Anicka’s work reflects her interest in developing diagnostic technologies and translating scientific discoveries into practical tools that could improve patient care.
Beyond her laboratory research, Anicka is engaged in entrepreneurship and science communication initiatives at Duke, aiming to make complex scientific concepts more accessible to the public.
An Important First Step for ECRF Research
In May 2026, Anicka presented her proposed research to ECRF board members, clinicians, and researchers, alongside her mentor and collaborator from Duke University, outlining the project's scientific approach, objectives, and potential impact on early detection of endometrial cancer.
This first award constitutes a tangible step toward establishing the foundation’s research program. By supporting Anicka’s work, ECRF invests in an early-stage scientific approach with the potential to address a critical gap in endometrial cancer screening.
ECRF research priorities include earlier detection and diagnosis, improved treatments, expanded access to clinical trials, and enhanced survivorship and quality of life. This project aligns with these priorities by investigating a less-invasive approach to early detection for individuals at increased risk.
As the foundation expands, ECRF intends to build upon this initial investment by supporting larger research initiatives and fostering scientific collaborations.
A Vision for Endometrial Cancer Research
“Every advancement in endometrial cancer research begins with a commitment to asking questions, challenging what we know, and exploring what is possible. At ECRF, we believe that supporting research today can open doors to discoveries that will shape better care and outcomes for generations to come.”
Corby Arthur
Founder & President, ECRF
Follow the Research
ECRF plans to track the project's progress and share updates with our ECRF Peach community as the research advances.
Research begins with a question, but progress takes a community. Together, these efforts help break barriers and advance endometrial cancer research.
Join ECRF as we support new discoveries, share research updates, and work toward a better future for those impacted by endometrial cancer:
References
American Cancer Society. (2026). Cancer Facts & Figures 2026. View report
American Cancer Society. (2026). Key Statistics for Endometrial Cancer. View source
Idos, G., Hampel, H., & Valle, L. (2026). Lynch Syndrome. GeneReviews®, National Center for Biotechnology Information. View source
GeneReviews®. (2026). Lynch Syndrome: Cancer Risks by Gene by Age 65 Years. NCBI Bookshelf, Table 3. View risk estimates
Duke University. Development of a Less-Invasive Screening Method for Endometrial Cancer. Duke Scholars. View research project