Urine Test for Cancer

Scientists have developed a diagnostic nanoparticle that can detect cancer cells from virtually anywhere in the body through a urine test. It can also be used in conjunction with traditional imaging to pinpoint the location of tumors, even those that have metastasized.

The injectable microsensors are coated with peptides that react with enzymes produced by cancer cells (known as proteases). This creates a synthetic biomarker that is excreted from the body and may be analyzed in a urine sample. By adding a radioactive tracer, known as copper-64, and a peptide that is attracted to acidic environments (like those created by tumors), the particles are induced to accumulate at the tumor site, enabling them to be imaged more easily using PET scan techniques.

The researchers envision the particles as a screening alternative to costly imaging procedures. They would also be used to monitor patient response to chemotherapy and radiation and to provide an indicator of potential spread of disease. The cancer-detecting sensors are one in a family of sensors that are engineered to detect specific protease-mediated diseases.