Precision oncology is altering the cancer early detection paradigm. Recent developments in next-generation sequencing have provided insights into the cancer genome, epigenome, transcriptome, metabolome, and proteome, resulting in biomarker discovery and development that is set to alter cancer early detection. The current generation of cancer early detection tests, many of which are still in development and research, target a wide range of biomarkers, including DNA methylation patterns, DNA fragmentation, RNA sequences, proteins, and others. Meanwhile, breakthroughs in data science have enabled the development of complicated machine learning algorithms that increase the sensitivity and specificity of biomarkers.
The new horizon in cancer early detection offers the ability to address some of the limitations of standard cancer screening. First, emerging cancer early detection techniques may be more sensitive than older cancer screening tests. For example, emerging technologies have the potential to enhance outcomes through earlier detection by identifying circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) released into circulation by most cancer cells before traditional imaging or blood testing that indicates active malignancy. Furthermore, they enable the detection of many of the two-thirds of malignancies for which no screening or early detection technique is currently available. Newer methods can identify signals from many tumors at the same time using a single test, giving rise to the term "multi-cancer early detection" (MCED). This new generation of cancer early detection relies on non or minimally invasive bio sample, such as blood, urine, saliva, stool or cerebral spinal fluid, these liquid biopsies offer greater accessibility of the early cancer detection. Numerous firms are actively engaged in the early detection of cancer. Such as Grail and Exact Science.
Grail is revolutionizing early cancer detection with cutting-edge technology. By leveraging and harnessing the power of next-generation sequencing (NGS), clinical studies, advanced computer and data science, Grail is pioneering new methods to detect cancer early, improving patient outcomes, and shaping the future of healthcare. Grail’s Galleri Test is redefining cancer screening. Current single-cancer screenings are crucial for detecting five specific cancers: breast, cervical, colorectal, lung (for smokers at risk), and prostate cancer. Galleri can enhance early detection by using a single blood test to identify signals from multiple cancers and uses a machine learning algorithm to determine whether the DNA fragments come from healthy cells or cancer cells. If a signal is detected, Galleri accurately predicts the tissue type or organ involved, aiding follow-up diagnostics with 88% accuracy.
Exact Sciences, a prominent provider of cancer screening and diagnostic tests, equips patients and healthcare professionals with the critical insights needed to take life-changing actions at an earlier stage. Exact Sciences is developing a multi-cancer early detection Test CANCER GUARD™. The CancerSEEK test studied in DETECT-A was the forerunner to the MCED test currently in development.
