21 February 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC

1. Common biomarker for range of Cancers offers potential non-invasive method for early cancer diagnosis

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2104995 )

Research on Universal Cancer Biomarkers:

• Some cancers, like pancreatic and glioma, are diagnosed late, making treatment difficult.
• Scientists found common substances (metabolites) in tiny messengers called exosomes, which cancer cells release.
• These metabolites may act as universal markers to detect cancer early and develop better treatments.
• Researchers studied exosomes from pancreatic, lung, and glioma cancer cells.
• They used advanced techniques like imaging, mass spectrometry, and molecular analysis for accurate results.
• The study helps understand how cancer spreads and interacts within the body.
• These biomarkers can lead to precise, non-invasive cancer detection methods.
• Targeted therapies could block harmful metabolic pathways, making treatments more effective with fewer side effects.
• The findings support personalized medicine and better patient outcomes.