Overview
- A large diagnostic study reported in Biomarker Research on 23 June 2026 validated qMIDS‑V3, a brush‑swab test that returns molecular results in about one hour from cells collected without cutting tissue.
- The trial analysed more than 1,000 samples from 545 patients and found qMIDS‑V3 performs comparably to the earlier microbiopsy qMIDS‑V2, supporting the same four‑gene molecular signature for oral squamous cell carcinoma.
- Researchers say the test could spare most low‑risk patients from painful scalpel biopsies and reduce unnecessary specialist referrals by identifying cancer‑free lesions at the point of care.
- Because it uses a painless, repeatable swab, qMIDS‑V3 offers a new option for serial monitoring of persistent potentially malignant oral disorders to detect malignant change earlier.
- Queen Mary University has patent filings through QM Innovation Ltd and is seeking commercial partners; product development, manufacturing and regulatory clearance are required before routine clinical use, which the team estimates could take up to two years with the right partner.