Scientists have developed a pioneering urine test that could reveal the earliest signs of lung cancer, potentially years before symptoms appear. The test, which has been successfully trialled in mice, is designed to spot specific proteins linked to the disease's initial stages, offering hope for earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge and the Early Cancer Institute focused on proteins released by senescent cells, often referred to as “zombie cells”. These cells remain alive but cannot grow or divide, and they can damage surrounding tissue by reprogramming their environment to encourage the emergence of cancer.
The new approach involves an injectable sensor that interacts with these proteins and releases a detectable compound into the urine. When the proteins are present, the probe splits, and a small fragment passes through the kidneys. By adding a silver solution, the fragment becomes visible, altering the colour of the urine and indicating pathological changes that may precede lung cancer.
Professor Ljiljana Fruk explained: “We identified a specific protein released by these cells in lung tissue and designed a probe that is cut into two pieces in its presence. By monitoring the colour of urine after the injection of the probe we can say if cells are present in lungs that would indicate the early signs of pathological changes that might lead to cancer.” She added that the ultimate goal is to help doctors detect cancer months or even years before noticeable symptoms.
The study, funded by Cancer Research UK, aims to provide a cheaper alternative to expensive scans. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, accounting for around 1.8 million deaths annually, with survival rates particularly poor when the disease is diagnosed at an advanced stage. The team now hopes to progress to human trials.
