The project, called eSPRcancer, aims to create a new technology for the detection of breast cancer biomarkers – specifically the CA (Cancer Antigen) 15-3 – in a faster, more precise and more sensitive way. The initiative brings together INESC TEC and the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto (FCUP).
Let’s start from the beginning: what is a biomarker?
A biomarker is a biological substance or characteristic that can be measured in the body – for example, through blood, urine or saliva tests, or by analysing tissue samples – and provides information about a person’s health status. Changes in biomarker levels can indicate that something is happening in the body: from an infection or inflammation to (in more serious cases) the presence or progression of a disease like cancer. The eSPRcancer project focuses on studying the biomarker CA 15-3, a protein that is often found at higher levels in the blood of some people with breast cancer (although it may also be slightly elevated in certain non-cancerous conditions).
While the main goal of the project is to develop a highly sensitive new method for detecting the CA 15-3 biomarker, there is potential to extend the technology to other biomarkers, such as CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen). CEA is another type of protein that appears at higher levels in people with other types of cancer, particularly those affecting the colon and rectum, pancreas, lungs, and some forms of breast cancer.
Today’s tests can already detect these biomarkers, but not always with the sensitivity needed for very early diagnosis. They are, in fact, more commonly used to monitor disease progression rather than to identify its onset. The eSPRcancer project aims to change that.
To achieve this, the project will combine two techniques that have rarely been used together until now: optics (SPR – surface plasmon resonance) technology, which analyses how light interacts with a surface to identify specific molecules, and electrochemical techniques, which measure electrical variations when those molecules bind to a sensor.
“Both approaches will contribute to a bi-modal platform (optical and electrochemical) capable of detecting cancer biomarkers with greater precision and in less time, using very small sample volumes (less than 1 mL),” explained João Pedro Mendes, a researcher at INESC TEC.
INESC TEC is responsible for the technological component of the project. “We’ll develop the prototype of the eSPR system – i.e., the physical sensor – as well as the software that controls the measurements and device operation. We’ll also carry out the 3D printing and electronic integration of the platform, and prepare the system for future large-scale production or even for the creation of a spin-off company,” he added
The project introduces several innovations; firstly, as mentioned, it combines two techniques – optical and electrochemical – into a single device, something that remains largely unexplored. Secondly, it uses synthetic receptors (MIPs) that act as “custom-made keys” capable of recognising molecules associated with cancer. And finally, it will lead to the development of a modular, portable and scalable device, making it suitable for use in various settings: from laboratories to clinics, hospitals and healthcare centres.
“With this project, we want to have an impact across several areas of society. Firstly, in healthcare, by enabling earlier and more reliable detection of breast cancer – and possibly other cancers too – while reducing false positives and negatives. But also, in science and technology, by creating a new type of biosensor with potential applications in the field of personalised medicine.”
Funded by the P2030 programme and co-promoted by INESC TEC and FCUP, eSPRcancer will help make diagnoses faster and more accessible, improving quality of life and increasing the efficiency of the healthcare system.
The researcher mentioned in this news piece is associated with INESC TEC.
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