Overview
- Researchers reported on Monday that a nanosensor developed at the University of Cambridge produces a measurable urine signal when it meets proteins released by senescent or “zombie” cells linked to early lung cancer.
- The test works by injecting a probe that reacts with a specific protein secreted by senescent cells and releases a small compound that is then excreted and detected in urine.
- The underlying biomarker was validated in human tissue samples and large genetic datasets, and the probe produced detectable signals in tested human urine samples, but it has not yet been tested in clinical trials.
- The work was funded by Cancer Research UK and the research team is fundraising to adapt the probe for lung fibrosis and other cancers while preparing for safety and accuracy trials.
- Investigators estimate a multi-year pathway to NHS use—researchers have suggested about five years—but that depends on successful human trials, clear data on sensitivity and specificity, safety reviews, regulatory approval, and funding for rollout.