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A group of researchers formed a new method that can detect the breast cancer through blood test.
Scientists of Oxford University collaborated with experts of the Natural History Museum and Imperial College London for this research. They examined the metal isotopes with the help of conventional techniques utilized in planetary formation studies and climatology research.
Later on, they discovered that breast tumor generally absorb the “light” zinc. It is considered as a particular isotopic composition of zinc. Therefore, heavy zinc can work as a biomarker in the blood.
The researchers carried out a test in order to confirm the result of the study. They selected ten blood and tissue samples. Five of them were breast cancer patients and five were taken from the normal human beings. The new method immediately detects the difference between the two blood samples. It sense how certain cells reacts with the metal.
Researchers claim that the simple blood test would discover the disease even before the development of the tumor in the body. The new method can also be utilized in the national screening program. The detection of breast cancer at an early age will certainly save numerous lives.
Dr. Fiona Larner, the main author of the report stated that researchers were aware of the fact that breast cancer tissues contain high zinc concentration. However, the specific molecular process was a big mystery.
Germaine Hicks
Germaine is an avid sports fan and as such, he decided on his current career path with the idea in mind that he would never, ever miss a Yankee game. Until now, he managed to make good on that promise. As you’ve probably guessed, he’s our go-to sports guy.
