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New Blood Test for Aggressive Breast Cancer
23 Oct
Summary
- A new blood test is being developed for aggressive triple-negative breast cancer.
- The test uses exosomes in blood samples to detect early-stage tumors.
- This research project is funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
Scientists in India are working on a novel blood test designed to detect triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) in its early stages. TNBC, which accounts for 10-15% of breast cancers, typically affects women in their mid-30s and 40s and is challenging to treat due to resistance to standard therapies.
The project, led by Prof. Rama Rao Malla and funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), focuses on analyzing serum exosomal microRNAs. These tiny vesicles released by cells carry genetic material that can indicate the presence of cancer.
Researchers will compare blood samples from early-stage TNBC patients with those from healthy women. Advanced techniques like sequencing and digital PCR, coupled with a machine-learning model, will be employed to identify specific microRNA signatures. The ultimate goal is to develop a readily available kit for early diagnosis.
This initiative is expected to significantly improve treatment outcomes by enabling timely surgical intervention, potentially saving lives and reducing the burden of this aggressive cancer.
