Diagnosis of cancer through a drop of blood

The new approach will save time, so that patients can be quickly referred to the specialists they need. The research results were published in the Journal of Spectroscopy Raman.

According to scientists, it is possible to perform a liquid biopsy in minutes using Raman spectroscopy. Unlike existing laboratory methods of analysis, which require hours, this method allows real-time blood analysis.

Experts say the process could be done using optical techniques, where the light exchanges energy with the molecules of the blood sample. This helps to identify a particular type of molecule and its concentration in the blood, which can then make a definitive diagnosis.

'Light can interact with biological molecules, which are the building blocks of our bodies. If you know this interactive process, you can track changes in body composition and whether any pathologies are developing with just one drop of blood. This method can be done in minutes', said Ivan Bratchenko, Associate Professor at the Department of Laser and Biotechnology Systems at Samara National Research University.

Mr. Bratchenko noted that scientists around the world are currently having difficulty achieving greater accuracy and flexibility with their proposed diagnostic methods.

Although less accurate than methods carried out by laboratory means, the method of using light proposed by Russian experts can be performed with a handheld device.

According to the study authors, performing a fluid biopsy with a mobile device significantly reduces the cost of the blood analysis system. Scientists have come up with the most optimal methods to mathematically manipulate spectral features. These methods can be used for high noise data that occurs when using a mobile device.

'This method is really effective when it comes to mass screening. Fluid biopsy helps to quickly identify people with a medical condition and send them to the specialist doctor needed. It also helps to monitor the patient's condition. When examining the blood composition, a liquid biopsy can also show an improvement or deterioration in the patient's condition, '' said Ivan Bratchenko.

In order to improve the proposed device to be used in a hospital, physicists, chemists, mathematicians, engineers and doctors are needed, according to the team. In the future, Russian scientists want to improve their analytical methods and conduct extensive clinical trials on many different groups of patients.

David Pac

Update 13 November 2020