New research heralds breast cancer diagnosis with just a drop of blood

Sub: Science and tech

Sec: Health

Context:

The CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) scientists in association with clinicians of the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC) in Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) have identified a potentially cost-effective and non-invasive method to detect various kinds of breast cancer from just a drop of blood.

Key Highlights of the Research:

The researchers have analyzed microRNA signatures in hundreds of human cancer samples and identified 439 microRNAs (miRNAs) that are associated with invasive breast cancer, of which 107 qualified to be potential biomarkers for the stratification of different types, grades and stages of invasive ductal carcinoma.
Most of the cellular processes in a body are regulated by miRNAs molecules which are 23-25 base small non-coding RNA molecules.
The scientist explained that cancer cells shed DNA/RNA into the circulation called ‘Circulating Nucleic Acids (CNAs) and tumor-specific genetic changes, including DNA, RNA, and proteins, which are detectable in plasma or other body fluids of cancer patients to identify the earlier stages of cancer development.
Based on this principle, the identified biomarkers could be made into a liquid biopsy system that might prove to be a boon for developing countries, where cancer could be detected from one drop of blood.
Nine international patents have already been granted for these biomarkers as a testimony to the application of results of this study, which got published recently in a prestigious journal called “Cell Communication and Signaling (CCS).

Benefits of the Diagnosis:

Affordable, quick and robust early detection protocols for breast cancer diagnosis using miRNAs could strengthen the healthcare system majorly because breast cancer is a hidden epidemic in third world countries with most rural women in India and elsewhere reluctant to go for a physical examination.
The discovery of biomarkers has become essential for early detection, classification, and monitoring of cancer.

What is “Circulating Nucleic Acids =CNA”?

CNA refers to segments of DNA or RNA found in the bloodstream.
CNAs offer a non-invasive approach to a wide range in diagnostics of clinical disorders that will allow the basic information necessary not only for use in predictive medicine but also for direct use in acute medicine.