A researcher at Aston University has made a significant breakthrough in the early detection of prostate cancer using a novel light-based technique.
Professor Igor Meglinski, from the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies, led the team that developed a new, faster, and less painful method for detecting cancer by analyzing crystals in dehydrated blood.
The team’s research, published in the journal Scientific Reports, introduces a new polarization-based image reconstruction technique.
This method examines polycrystalline structures in dried blood samples to identify changes in the proteins’ shapes—crucial indicators of early-stage diseases like cancer.
In their study, the researchers analyzed 108 blood samples divided into three groups: healthy individuals, prostate cancer patients, and those with aggressive forms of the disease.
By studying the unique 3D structure of the proteins and how they fit together, the team was able to distinguish between healthy and cancerous cells with an impressive 90% accuracy.
“Our study introduces a groundbreaking technique to the field of liquid biopsy, aiming for non-invasive, reliable, and efficient cancer detection methods,” said Professor Meglinski.
He highlighted that this new approach allows for detailed, layer-by-layer analysis of blood smears, which is essential for identifying critical differences between healthy and cancerous samples.
One of the most significant advantages of this technique is its reliance on blood samples rather than tissue biopsies, making it far less traumatic and risky for patients.
This advancement represents a major step forward in personalized medicine and cancer diagnostics, potentially revolutionizing how prostate cancer is detected and monitored.
“The high level of precision, combined with the non-invasive nature of the technique, marks a significant advancement in liquid biopsy technology,” Professor Meglinski added.
“It holds immense potential for improving cancer diagnosis, early detection, patient stratification, and monitoring, greatly enhancing patient care and treatment outcomes.”
This study not only showcases the potential for a new, effective cancer detection method but also highlights the collaboration and resilience of the researchers involved, including those from Ukraine, despite the ongoing conflict in their country.
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Source: Aston University.
