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Advanced breath sensors could be a major breakthrough in early lung cancer diagnosis

In 2022 alone, 131,888 people died from lung cancer in the US. (Image source: KATERYNA KON/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images)
In 2022 alone, 131,888 people died from lung cancer in the US. (Image source: KATERYNA KON/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images)
Researchers developed an ultrasensitive sensor to detect lung cancer through breath analysis, identifying isoprene at 2 ppb. A portable, non-invasive tool like this could enable early diagnosis, improving outcomes and eventually saving lives.

Researchers from Zhejiang University, led by Pingwei Liu, PhD, and Qingyue Wang (PhD), have developed an ultrasensitive sensor for detecting lung cancer through exhaled breath. The innovative Pt@InNiOx nanoflake sensor can identify isoprene—a key biomarker for lung cancer—at concentrations as low as 2 parts per billion (ppb), the lowest detection limit reported for such sensors.

This breakthrough is basically a non-invasive, cost-effective method for early lung cancer diagnosis. In tests, a portable device using these sensors accurately differentiated between breath samples from lung cancer patients and healthy individuals. Cancer patients exhibited isoprene levels below 40 ppb, while healthy participants had levels exceeding 60 ppb.

The sensor's performance is due to its unique nanoflake structure, which makes isoprene detection better by improving molecule adsorption and electron interaction. The study sheds light on the potential of this tech for dynamic health monitoring, which is big for early diagnosis and overall better outcomes.

Despite the promise, the researchers note that further studies and clinical trials are necessary before commercialization. Enhancements in data analysis, sensor integration, and understanding the link between breath isoprene and lung cancer will be crucial for broader adoption. Regardless, this technology, if improved upon, can transform lung cancer screening by offering a low-cost, non-invasive solution to improve patient prognosis and save lives. 

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2024 11 > Advanced breath sensors could be a major breakthrough in early lung cancer diagnosis
Anubhav Sharma, 2024-11- 8 (Update: 2024-11- 8)