Cambridge scientists have developed a groundbreaking urine test that could revolutionize early lung cancer detection. The test targets “zombie” cells - damaged cells that linger in tissue and release proteins that aid cancer development. This innovation could enable earlier interventions, improving survival rates for the world’s deadliest cancer.
Developed by Professor Ljiljana Fruk and Dr.Daniel Munoz Espin’s teams at the University of Cambridge, the test uses an injectable sensor to detect proteins from damaged cells. The sensor releases a small probe fragment into the urine, which becomes visible when treated with a silver solution - similar to that used in early analogue photography.
“Early detection of cancer requires cost-effective tools and strategies that enable detection to happen quickly and accurately,” said Professor Fruk. “Ultimately, we want to develop a urine test that could help doctors identify signs of the early stages of cancer – potentially months or even years before noticeable symptoms appear.”
Lung cancer accounts for 1.8 million deaths annually, with late-stage detection severely limiting treatment outcomes. This test offers a less invasive and more affordable alternative to expensive scans, potentially saving thousands of lives each year. While the initial focus is lung cancer, researchers believe the technology could be adapted to detect other cancers.
This pioneering research is funded by Cancer Research UK, which has invested over £231 million in lung cancer research in the last decade. The team hopes this test will transform early cancer diagnosis and enhance patient outcomes globally.
