Inspection time less than 5 seconds… Reuse cost: $5
Researchers say, “Technology that can help the world”
Researchers in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Florida have developed a portable bio-kit that can quickly and easily detect breast cancer indicators at a low cost.
According to Health Day News, an American medical media outlet, on the 14th (local time), a portable biosensor newly developed by researchers at the University of Florida can diagnose breast cancer within 5 seconds with just a drop of saliva. This is a big improvement compared to having to use expensive MRI for cancer screening.
Saiosuan Wan, a senior researcher at the University of Florida, explained, “The kit we developed is the size of the palm of your hand, so it is easy to carry and can be reused.”
The kit consists of paper test strips treated with specific antibodies that react with cancer samples. When a saliva sample is placed on the strip, an electrical signal is transmitted and a breast cancer reading is output.
In comparison, mammography, ultrasound, and MRI scans used to detect breast cancer are all time-consuming, expensive, and expose to radiation.
“Advanced technologies such as MRI for breast cancer screening are not readily available in developing countries,” Wan said. “Our technology is cost-effective, with a reusable circuit costing only $5.”
“We are excited about the potential of our technology to have a significant impact in areas where resources for breast cancer screening are lacking,” he added.
As a result of the study, it was revealed that two biomarkers are used in this technology. One detects the human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER 2), a protein that causes 15 to 20% of invasive breast cancers, and the other detects the CA 15-3 antigen released into the bloodstream by breast cancer.
It is known that the kit can distinguish between healthy breast tissue, early breast cancer, and advanced breast cancer through these two indicators.
Wan said, “What was most memorable was when I saw the numbers clearly distinguishing between healthy people and cancer patients.” He added, “Ultimately, we have created a technology that has the potential to help people around the world.”
Source: Donga
Mark Jones is a world traveler and journalist for News Rebeat. With a curious mind and a love of adventure, Mark brings a unique perspective to the latest global events and provides in-depth and thought-provoking coverage of the world at large.