ECRF Announces First Seed-Funded Research Project
The Endometrial Cancer Research Foundation (ECRF) has announced its inaugural seed-funded research project, which investigates a less invasive method for detecting endometrial cancer in women with Lynch syndrome.
ECRF awarded this seed-funded research project to Anicka AbiChedid, a Ph.D. candidate in the Cell and Molecular Biology program at Duke University School of Medicine.
The research project, “Development of a Less-Invasive Screening Method for Endometrial Cancer,” investigates a blood-based approach to facilitate earlier detection of endometrial cancer in women with Lynch syndrome, an inherited condition associated with increased disease risk.
Administered by the Duke Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, ECRF seed funding supports preliminary research and data collection to evaluate the proposed screening method.
Development of a Less-Invasive Screening Method for the Early Detection of Endometrial Cancer
Women with Lynch syndrome inherit genetic alterations that substantially elevate their risk of developing endometrial cancer. The cumulative risk of developing endometrial cancer by age 65 ranges from 13% to 38%, depending on the specific gene involved.
Endometrial cancers associated with Lynch syndrome frequently display a characteristic pattern of DNA alterations known as microsatellite instability (MSI). Detection of MSI is essential, as it determines eligibility for certain immunotherapy treatments.
However, current screening methods are often invasive and exhibit limited sensitivity for detecting early-stage disease.
To address these challenges, the project utilizes an ultra-sensitive DNA sequencing approach known as MSI-MDS to determine whether MSI can be detected in blood samples.
The objective is to develop a less-invasive screening method capable of facilitating earlier detection of endometrial cancer in women with Lynch syndrome.
Seed funding from ECRF will support ongoing assay development and preliminary testing to evaluate the method's sensitivity and specificity. The resulting data may provide a foundation for future grant applications and larger clinical studies.
About the Researcher
Anicka AbiChedid is a Ph.D. candidate in the Cell and Molecular Biology program at Duke University School of Medicine, conducting research under the guidance of Dr. Christopher Counter, the principal investigator (PI).
Her research focuses on developing and applying ultra-sensitive DNA sequencing technologies to identify genetic alterations associated with cancer. As a PI Fellow, she investigates how to translate scientific discoveries into practical applications.
In addition to her research, Anicka engages in entrepreneurship and science communication initiatives at Duke, focusing on improving clinical care and increasing public access to scientific knowledge.
An Important First Step for ECRF Research
In May 2026, Anicka presented her proposed project to ECRF board members, clinicians, and researchers, accompanied by her mentor and collaborator from Duke University. This presentation facilitated discussion of the project's scientific approach, objectives, and challenges related to early detection.
This initial award marks a significant milestone for ECRF as the foundation begins supporting early-stage scientific research.
As ECRF expands, the foundation aims to broaden research funding opportunities, foster collaboration, and support larger research initiatives that address the needs of the endometrial cancer community.
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 supporting research today can open doors to discoveries that shape better care and outcomes for generations to come.”
Corby Arthur
Founder & President, ECRF
Follow the Research
ECRF will share updates on Anicka's project as the research progresses, keeping our community informed about its developments and future steps.
This research project is made possible by the generosity and dedication of our donors, volunteers, partners, advocates, and the expanding ECRF Peach Community.
We appreciate your support for this significant first step in ECRF's research journey.
References
American Cancer Society. (2026). Cancer Facts & Figures 2026.
American Cancer Society. (2026). Key Statistics for Endometrial Cancer.
Idos, G., Hampel, H., & Valle, L. (2026). Lynch Syndrome. GeneReviews®, National Center for Biotechnology Information.
GeneReviews®. (2026). Lynch Syndrome: Cancer Risks by Gene by Age 65 Years. NCBI Bookshelf, Table 3.
Duke University. Anicka AbiChedid: Research Profile. Duke Scholars.
