New Blood Test for Cancer Detection Developed by Zurich Researchers

Researchers at the University of Zurich (UZH) and the University Hospital Zurich (USZ) have developed a new technique for detecting and monitoring cancer using blood samples. This method, known as a liquid biopsy, is less invasive than traditional tissue biopsies and can be used for all types of tumors.

How It Works

The liquid biopsy technique sequences and analyzes DNA fragments circulating in the blood of patients. According to Zsolt Balazs, co-first author of the study at UZH, this method can be used for risk assessments, treatment monitoring, and early detection of cancer recurrence.

Advantages

Since the method is based on blood samples, it is faster and more practical for day-to-day hospital operations. It reduces the need for multiple diagnostic appointments, sparing patients lengthy waits. The technique helps oncologists determine tumor activity and spread more accurately, allowing for personalized treatment plans.

Research Findings

In the lab, researchers analyzed gene fragments in the blood for changes in DNA that are characteristic of specific cancers. Panagiotis Balermpas, a professor at USZ, noted that the technique could distinguish between less and more aggressive metastatic cancer earlier than imaging technology.

The method was tested on patients undergoing radiotherapy, including those with HPV-positive cancers. Higher concentrations of HPV DNA in the blood were found to be early indicators of cancer recurrence, which could be treated with immunotherapy.

Balermpas emphasized the importance of individualized treatment to improve patients’ quality of life, especially for those with head and neck tumors.