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In the face of rising breast cancer cases globally, a groundbreaking solution has emerged: an innovative hand-held sensor device capable of fast, affordable, and accurate breast cancer screening using just a tiny sample of saliva in a mere five seconds.
Developed by an international team of scientists from the University of Florida and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan, this biosensor device promises to revolutionize breast cancer screening with its portability, affordability, and efficiency.
Lead researcher Hsiao-Hsuan Wan from the University of Florida’s Department of Chemical Engineering emphasized the device’s potential impact, envisioning medical staff conducting screenings in communities or hospitals with ease. “Our device is an excellent choice because it is portable—about the size of your hand—and reusable,” Wan stated. “The testing time is under five seconds per sample, which makes it highly efficient.”
The biosensor utilizes paper test strips treated with specific antibodies designed to interact with targeted cancer biomarkers. When a saliva sample is placed on the strip and pulses of electricity are sent to electrical contact points on the device, biomarkers bind to the antibodies, altering the charge and capacitance over the electrode. This change in output signal is then measured and translated into digital information about the presence of biomarkers.
Compared to traditional screening methods such as mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRIs, which can be costly, invasive, and time-consuming, this hand-held sensor offers a revolutionary alternative. Notably, it requires just a drop of saliva and can provide accurate results even at extremely low concentrations of cancer biomarkers.
“In many places, especially in developing countries, advanced technologies like MRI for breast cancer testing may not be readily available,” Wan noted. “Our technology is more cost-effective, with the test strip costing just a few cents and the reusable circuit board priced at $5.”
The biosensor’s potential to make a significant impact in regions lacking resources for conventional screening methods is profound. Wan expressed excitement about the device’s ability to provide accurate readings distinguishing between healthy individuals and those with cancer, highlighting its potential to help people worldwide.
After dedicating extensive time and effort to perfecting the device’s components, Wan and the research team have created a technique with the power to transform breast cancer screening on a global scale, offering hope for more accessible and effective healthcare solutions for individuals worldwide.
