Scientists are working on a way to detect cancer with sound waves
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)
| Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology |
| Context |
| ● Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a groundbreaking ultrasound technique that transforms cancerous tissue into blood-circulating droplets, potentially replacing invasive biopsies.
● This method allows for the detection of cancer biomarkers in blood samples, promising a less painful diagnostic approach. |
Using Sound for Cancer Detection:
- Ultrasound Technology: High-energy ultrasound waves can be employed to break off small droplets of cancerous tissue from tumours, releasing biomolecules into the bloodstream.
- Biomarker Identification: These droplets contain genetic material (RNA, DNA) and proteins that serve as biomarkers for cancer, allowing scientists to detect specific cancer types and mutations.
- Enhanced Detection: The ultrasound technique can increase the concentration of biomarkers in blood samples by over 100 times, significantly improving the chances of early detection.
- Non-Invasive Approach: This method offers a less painful alternative to traditional biopsies, minimising patient discomfort while still providing valuable diagnostic information.
Challenges Faced by Scientists:
- Low Sensitivity: Detecting circulating cancer cells in the bloodstream is difficult due to their low numbers, requiring highly sensitive methods for accurate identification.
- Cost and Accessibility: Many existing tests, such as the CellSearch test, are expensive, limiting their accessibility to patients.
- Need for Comprehensive Trials: Large-scale clinical trials involving diverse populations are essential to ensure that the technique is effective across different cancer types and demographics.
Recent Advancements:
- Successful Single Cell Detection: Researchers have successfully detected a single prostate cancer cell in blood samples using the ultrasound method, demonstrating its potential effectiveness.
- Cost-Effective Testing: The new ultrasound-based technique is expected to reduce testing costs to around $100, making cancer detection more affordable and accessible.
- Broader Applications in Cancer: Ongoing research aims to expand the technique to detect other cancer types, such as breast cancer and melanoma, enhancing its utility in oncology.
| Practice Question: Discuss the potential implications of using ultrasound technology for cancer detection. How does this advancement address the challenges associated with traditional biopsy methods, and what are the key challenges in implementing this technique in clinical settings? (150 Words /10 marks) |
