miRoncol Unveils Breakthrough Blood Test to Detect 12+ Early-Stage Cancers
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The company recently completed proof-of-concept studies, showcasing the test's potential to make preventative healthcare more effective, accessible, and affordable for millions of people.
miRoncol, a medtech startup, has achieved a breakthrough in cancer detection with a blood test that can identify multiple types of cancer in their early stages. The company recently completed proof-of-concept studies, showcasing the test's potential to make preventative healthcare more effective, accessible, and affordable for millions of people. This advancement leverages pioneering microRNA (miRNA) research alongside machine learning to create a test that could revolutionize early cancer detection.
How miRoncol's Test Works
At the core of miRoncol’s test is miRNA, a molecule that plays a key role in gene regulation. Since abnormal miRNA regulation is often linked to cancer, miRoncol’s test uses miRNAs as biomarkers, detecting these molecules in blood samples. A proprietary machine-learning algorithm then analyzes the miRNA profiles, identifying potential cancerous changes before any physical symptoms appear.
The importance of miRNA in cancer research was highlighted recently when the 2024 Nobel Prize in Medicine was awarded for miRNA discoveries. Victoria Xu, CEO of miRoncol, noted that this recognition underscores the test's scientific foundation and emphasizes miRoncol's commitment to bringing miRNA-based cancer detection to the public.
A High-Performance Early Detection Model
The test has demonstrated over 90% sensitivity and 99% specificity in proof-of-concept studies, achieving a rare balance of accuracy by minimizing both false positives and negatives. The test detects 12 different solid tumor cancers, which collectively cause about 60% of cancer deaths, including cancers like lung, breast, and pancreatic.
Affordable, Non-Invasive, and Scalable
miRoncol’s test is designed to be both cost-effective and widely accessible. Unlike invasive cancer screenings, the test relies on a simple blood draw that can be incorporated into routine healthcare. By using PCR technology, a widely-used and cost-efficient method, miRoncol’s test is positioned to offer scalable cancer screening at an affordable cost, which could be especially impactful in regions with limited access to early detection.
Medical oncologist Dr. Christopher Gallagher, an advisor to miRoncol, sees this test as a shift from “sick care” to true preventative care. According to Dr. Gallagher, miRoncol’s test offers a means for people to take control of their health, detect cancers early, and potentially reduce the healthcare system's focus on treating advanced-stage cancers.
A Strong Foundation in Research
The research behind miRoncol’s test is led by Dr. Hai Hu, a seasoned cancer researcher. The company has published multiple peer-reviewed studies supporting its diagnostic model, including articles in Cancers (March 2022) and Scientific Reports (2024). These publications are based on datasets from over 11,000 blood samples, affirming the scientific rigor behind miRoncol's technology. Additionally, miRoncol’s research has received accolades at major medical conferences, including an abstract award at the 2024 ASCO Breakthrough conference.
The Road Ahead
miRoncol plans to launch its test in Canada, with an introduction at the MedTech Conference in Toronto, October 15-17, 2024. Interested individuals will be able to reserve pilot test spots at a discounted rate through miRoncol’s website.
As cancer is projected to become the leading cause of death globally, miRoncol’s test arrives at a critical juncture. With its accuracy, affordability, and potential to make early detection accessible worldwide, miRoncol’s test represents a significant advancement in the future of cancer care, enabling early detection to save countless lives.