UK researchers have developed a groundbreaking blood test, hailed as a potential major breakthrough in the detection of certain types of brain cancer. This innovative test, often referred to as a “liquid biopsy,” presents a less invasive and risky alternative to the current methods used for diagnosing brain tumors, which typically involve surgery.
One of the most significant advantages of this test is its potential to lead to earlier diagnoses, which could, in turn, expedite treatment and possibly improve survival rates for patients with some of the deadliest forms of brain cancer. This is especially crucial for patients with “inaccessible” brain tumors, who could benefit from starting treatment as soon as possible.
The researchers, based at the Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence, a collaboration between Imperial College London and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, have performed initial studies to assess the test’s accuracy in diagnosing glial tumors, including glioblastoma (GBM), the most commonly-diagnosed high-grade brain tumor in adults, as well as astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas. These initial studies have shown the test to have high analytical sensitivity, specificity, and precision.
The test, known as TriNetra-Glio, works by isolating glial cells that have broken away from the tumor and are circulating in the blood. These cells are then stained and identified under a microscope. This method represents a significant advancement in non-invasive and non-radiological testing for these types of tumors.
The United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has granted the test ‘Breakthrough Therapy designation’ following a trial run by researchers at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust. This designation is given to expedite the development and review of drugs or tests intended to treat a serious condition when preliminary clinical evidence indicates that the drug or test may demonstrate substantial improvement over available therapy.
The researchers are hopeful about conducting larger studies in the UK to validate the results, with the potential for the test to benefit patients within two years. If successful, this could mark a significant step forward in the early detection and treatment of brain tumors, addressing a crucial unmet clinical need.
This development reflects the ongoing commitment of UK researchers to advancing cancer diagnosis and treatment, contributing significantly to global efforts in cancer care and research.
