Scientists are working on a way to detect cancer with sound waves

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

 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.