Technologies

UC San Diego researchers have developed a testing process, together with a reference library, that can be used to assay a blood sample for the presence of cancer markers. The reference library covers a broad range of cancers, and the prediction accuracy is good. The ability to use whole blood samples, with minimal processing, allows efficient sample screening, and potentially automation.

The routine cancer screening tests are mainly lengthy processes, which can be invasive and costly. Blood-based screening is an attractive option, as routine medical visits offer the opportunity to collect blood samples that may be screened for signs of disease. Currently the available options are limited.