A team at the University of Alberta, led by Roger Zemp, has developed a breakthrough method to obtain genetic cancer information using high-intensity ultrasound. While ultrasound is a valuable tool for detecting tumors, it typically lacks the ability to provide details about specific cell types and mutations, which often requires invasive biopsies. The team’s approach, however, releases biomarkers—such as miRNA, mRNA, and DNA—from cells into the bloodstream by applying ultrasound at levels that temporarily open pores in cell membranes, a process known as sonoporation. This release of biomarkers enables oncologists to detect and monitor cancer progression through blood tests rather than biopsies.
Zemp’s method, which significantly amplifies biomarker levels in blood samples by over 100 times, makes detecting tumor-specific and epigenetic mutations easier and more affordable. This technique allows for blood testing with single-cell sensitivity, and at a cost comparable to that of a COVID test, it presents a far cheaper alternative to traditional methods, which can cost upwards of $10,000 per test. Additionally, the team demonstrated that intense ultrasound could be used to liquefy small volumes of tissue, making it easier to retrieve cellular content for analysis. This process offers a more comfortable diagnostic alternative to the standard, more invasive core-needle biopsy.
Beyond simply reducing discomfort and cost, this innovation promises to improve patient outcomes by making cancer detection and monitoring more accessible. It allows medical practitioners to frequently track treatment efficacy without the risks associated with repeated biopsies, thereby enabling more responsive care. Zemp hopes that this technology will offer a minimally invasive yet comprehensive molecular view of patients’ cells and tissues, aiding in personalized treatment plans and earlier interventions. The findings were presented by Zemp at a joint meeting of the Acoustical Society of America and the Canadian Acoustical Association, emphasizing the clinical potential of ultrasound in molecular diagnostics.
