New methods of early diagnosis of oncological diseases

The Early Cancer Institute at the University of Cambridge opened in 2022, a research centre specifically dedicated to the prevention and early detection of cancer. The scientists' work focuses on identifying early cellular and molecular factors that can trigger the development of tumours. At the same time, advanced diagnostic methods are being developed to identify these markers and predict the risk of cancer development.

The institute has developed early diagnostic methods that detect changes in cells several years before they become cancerous. These early changes remain hidden for a long time before the disease suddenly manifests itself. Based on these discoveries, several methods are being developed to diagnose oesophageal cancer, prostate cancer and leukaemia.

Among the latest advances at the Early Cancer Institute is the 'cytosponge', a tool for detecting precancerous cells in the oesophagus. Originally developed to diagnose Baretta's oesophagus, it consists of a small capsule attached to a thread that can be swallowed. Once in the stomach, it expands, absorbing gastric juice like a sponge. When it is removed, oesophageal cells are collected from it. The cells are studied to identify a protein marker called TFF3, recognised as specific for precancerous cells. The capsule will soon be the subject of clinical trials in both Barrett's oesophagus and oesophageal cancer. The researchers estimate that tests using the cytosponge will be much cheaper and faster for the patient than endoscopy.

Another approach the team is working on is analysing blood samples. The blood samples from the study (200,000 women in an ovarian cancer screening programme) were analysed, revealing clear genetic markers specific to those who developed leukaemia 10-20 years after the samples were taken.