Test to detect cancer in 10 minutes

According toCNN, Australian researchers say this test can detect cancer cells in 10 minutes. Early and accurate detection of cancer helps increase the success rate of treatment and surgery.

The test was carried out after researchers from the University of Queensland discovered that cancer cells form a unique DNA structure when placed in water. They then proceeded to identify the presence of that structure.

Using a high-resolution microscope, the researchers saw cancer DNA fragments arranged in three-dimensional structures in the water. “It was different from normal tissue DNA in the water,” the doctor explained.

This test uses gold particles, which bind to cancer-affected DNA, and then undergo clinical studies to detect malignant cells.

Professor Matt Trau said: "The discovery that cancer DNA molecules form 3D nanostructures that are completely different from normal circulating DNA is a breakthrough. This is a completely new method of detecting cancer without invading any type of tissue, including blood."

“We could then create inexpensive and portable detection devices that could be used as diagnostic tools,” he added.

The test is currently used to detect breast, prostate, bowel and lymphoma cancers, and scientists are confident it could be replicated to screen for other diseases.

Earlier this year, researchers at Johns Hopkins University in the US also announced the development of a blood test that can screen for eight common cancers. The test identifies the presence of cancer proteins and genetic mutations in blood samples.

"More precise studies are needed before it can be used," the US researchers added.