by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system. Spanish researchers have patented a new method of identifying cells causing metastasis in cancer, with a simple blood analysis. The technique is based on the discovery that cancer cells can be identified by their DNA and RNA sequences. Liquid biopsies can obtain biological information about tumour cases when a solid biopsy is not possible, such as metastatic lung cancer. In addition, they can detect if the therapeutic targets identified remain constant over time, which is vital, given that tumour cells can change their genetic characteristics throughout the tumoural process. Earlier identification and response, which could avoid over-treatment and high toxicity, would also reduce health spending.
Spanish researchers have patented a new method of identifying cells causing metastasis in cancer, with a simple blood analysis. The technique is based on the discovery that cancer cells can be identified by their DNA and RNA sequences. Liquid biopsies can obtain biological information about tumour cases when a solid biopsy is not possible, such as metastatic lung cancer. In addition, they can detect if the therapeutic targets identified remain constant over time, which is vital, given that tumour cells can change their genetic characteristics throughout the tumoural process. Earlier identification and response, which could avoid over-treatment and high toxicity, would also reduce health spending.