NEW YORK: Specific protein markers can be identified and quantified in human saliva to provide an early, non-invasive diagnosis of breast cancer, a new study has found.
The study, published in the Journal of Cancer Investigation , describes how the onset of breast cancer produces a change in the normal type and amount of protein in glandular secretions from the salivary glands.
The protein profile in a healthy person is altered by the presence of cancer, it revealed.
The study is being applied to a "lab-on-a-chip" technology platform developed by biochemists at the University of Texas at Austin.
The ultimate goal is to bring this type of diagnostic test, which is capable of detecting the presence of cancer before a tumour forms, into the dental office or other health care facilities, the University said in a statement.
The technology aims to improve the ease and effectiveness with which dental professionals and other health care providers can provide quick, accurate diagnostic information and physician referrals to their patients, it said.
The study was a collaborative effort of Charles Streckfus, professor of diagnostics at the University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston, and William Dubinsky, a biochemist and professor of integrative biology and pharmacology at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston and Lenora Bigler, clinical research professor with the UT Dental Branch.
The research found that saliva holds the codes to many medical secrets.
No comments:
Post a Comment