Revolutionary Urine-Based Test for Early Cancer Detection
Researchers at the University of Michigan Health Rogel Cancer Center have made a groundbreaking advancement in cancer diagnostics—a urine-based test that identifies DNA fragments released by head and neck tumors. This innovative test addresses a critical need for early detection in cancers that currently lack reliable screening methods.
HPV’s Role in Head and Neck Cancers
Human papillomavirus (HPV), widely known for causing cervical cancer, is also a leading cause of cancers in the mouth, throat, and other head and neck regions. Early detection is key to improving patient outcomes, as diagnosing cancer in its initial stages significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
Unveiling Ultra-Short DNA Fragments
The research team employed whole genome sequencing to study tumor-released cell-free DNA fragments in the urine. These fragments, which measure fewer than 50 base pairs, are filtered through the bloodstream and kidneys. Due to their ultra-small size, conventional liquid biopsy tests often fail to detect these fragments, leading the researchers to design a specialized assay for detecting circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA).
Pioneering the New Test
This research, published in JCI Insight, was led by Dr. Muneesh Tewari, Dr. J. Chad Brenner, and Dr. Paul L. Swiecicki, alongside co-first author Dr. Chandan Bhambhani. “Conventional assays target longer DNA fragments, which means ultra-short ctDNA fragments in urine are often missed. Our team used an unconventional approach to develop a test for detecting HPV-positive head and neck cancer,” Bhambhani explained.
Real-World Testing and Results
In its discovery phase, the team distributed at-home urine collection kits to patients living within 100 miles of Ann Arbor. Participants mailed their samples back to the university laboratory for analysis. Remarkably, the test detected cancer recurrences much earlier than traditional clinical imaging methods.
Encouraged by these results, the researchers plan to expand the study’s distribution to collect more data and refine the test.
Beyond Head and Neck Cancers
This breakthrough holds promise for detecting other cancers as well. The research demonstrated the test’s ability to detect ctDNA in urine samples from patients with breast cancer and acute myeloid leukemia, suggesting the potential for broader applications of urine-based diagnostics.
“Most people don’t realize that urine contains vital information about multiple cancer types. Our findings on ctDNA fragment sizes provide a roadmap for developing urine-based diagnostic tools for various cancers,” said Bhambhani.
The Future of Cancer Diagnostics
Urine-based tests offer unparalleled convenience, particularly for post-treatment follow-ups. Unlike blood-based assays, these tests allow for self-collection at home, increasing patient compliance.
As the team continues refining this innovative diagnostic tool, it could transform cancer detection, making it more accessible, non-invasive, and effective for millions worldwide.
This discovery represents a significant leap forward in cancer diagnostics, providing hope for earlier detection and better outcomes for patients.
