Cambridge Researchers Develop Urine Test for Early Detection of Lung Cancer
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have made a groundbreaking advancement in the fight against lung cancer, developing a urine test for early detection of the disease.
This innovative test is the first of its kind, designed to detect “zombie” cells—senescent cells that could signal the first signs of cancer.
Led by Professor Ljiljana Fruk and Dr. Daniel Munoz Espin, with funding from Cancer Research UK, the project aims to revolutionize the way lung cancer is diagnosed.
The test focuses on detecting proteins excreted by zombie cells, which are alive but unable to divide and grow. These cells contribute to tissue damage and the development of cancer by promoting the growth of cancerous cells in their environment.
The urine test works by using an injectable sensor that interacts with these proteins, releasing a compound that is easily detectable in urine, signaling the presence of these harmful cells.
The simplicity and affordability of the test could enable doctors to detect lung cancer long before symptoms appear, significantly improving patient outcomes.
Lung cancer often goes undiagnosed until it has spread, making early detection crucial for effective treatment.
The researchers at Cambridge hope that their work will help doctors identify lung cancer months or even years before symptoms arise, offering a potential breakthrough in improving survival rates.
Professor Fruk and her team also envision the test’s application beyond lung cancer. They hope to develop similar probes to detect other cancers, enhancing early detection and treatment across multiple types of the disease.
“Early detection of cancer requires cost-effective tools and strategies that enable quick and accurate diagnosis, Ultimately, we want to develop a test that could identify signs of cancer well before noticeable symptoms appear, improving survival and reducing the need for invasive procedures.” – Fruk Ljiljana
Cancer Research UK has played a key role in supporting lung cancer research, investing over £231 million in the past decade.
Dr. Iain Foulkes, executive director of research and innovation at Cancer Research UK, praised the project, saying, “This work is another example of our commitment to advancing lung cancer research and improving survival, ultimately helping more people live longer, healthier lives, free from the fear of cancer.”
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