Potential to help in the detection of the early stages of cancer
Research by Professor Angray Kang and Dr. Anatoliy Markiv, in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Westminster, Antibody Technology Group (ATG), has laid the foundation for the creation of a groundbreaking method of detecting specific diseased and uninvited cells within the human body. The method has the potential to assist in the early diagnosis of cancerous cells, particularly those which have been previously difficult to identify.
The technique uses molecular engineering principles and a fluorescent protein, isolated from the red coral Discosoma. When incorporated into a specific antibody to make a ‘REDantibody™’ it causes targeted cells or cell components to glow under a microscope or detector.
This new technology was originally developed for imaging parasites, but could have applications in other areas of human healthcare, in particular cancer. Cancer is notoriously difficult to spot at an early stage, and early diagnosis is critical for the successful treatment of any form of the disease. This invention not only has the potential to catch cancer at an earlier stage, but it also allows for a more precise and accurate differentiation of tumour types. Early detection will allow for more specific and personalised treatment.
This method of detection could provide a reliable, less expensive and quicker alternative to current antibody-based tests which require multiple steps. The REDantibody™ seeks out cancer cells or cell parts of interest in biopsy tissue samples and with further research and appropriate imaging technology, the possibility of seeing cancer cells within the body looks promising.
Professor Angray Kang says: “The potential implications of this new method are very positive and should give real hope to those concerned with their own health and that of family or friends. There is a real opportunity to make a difference to the early diagnosis of serious diseases and infections, which bodes very well for future treatment and outcomes.
“We are in discussions to form collaborations with recognised international leaders in cancer imaging to develop these molecules for the detection of tumours in biopsy samples, and for those elusive circulating cancer cells in the body.”
Further details on Professor Kang and Dr Markiv’s REDantibody™ technology can be found in the Journal of Immunological Methods at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21055406
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