Cancer Prognostics & Diagnostics

RNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs) and other regulatory RNAs, can be detected and isolated from blood samples through liquid biopsy, a highly noninvasive technique. These RNA molecules are released into the bloodstream by various cells, including cancerous or damaged cells, making them accessible for analysis through simple blood draws. Isolation techniques such as qPCR, RNA sequencing, or microarray analysis allow for the detection of specific RNA profiles that correlate with disease states. This minimally invasive method spares patients the discomfort and risks of traditional biopsies while providing clinicians with real-time, molecular-level insights into disease presence or progression. For healthcare providers, it streamlines the diagnostic process, reduces costs, and enhances patient experience by offering an early and accurate detection method with minimal intervention.

Using our novel classification algorithm, we can analyze patterns within this genetic material, identifying distinct RNA expression profiles linked to specific cancers or diseases. Our algorithm sorts through vast amounts of RNA data to pinpoint subtle molecular changes that might not be detectable through traditional methods. By offering healthcare providers these refined datasets, we empower them to make informed decisions about treatment pathways, enabling precision medicine that tailors interventions based on a patient's unique molecular signature. Furthermore, the data helps guide additional testing when necessary, ensuring that subsequent diagnostic procedures are more focused and targeted, ultimately improving patient outcomes and optimizing healthcare costs.

Statistics overwhelmingly show that cancer survival rates are significantly higher when the disease is detected at an early stage. For many cancers, such as breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers, the five-year survival rate exceeds 90% when diagnosed early, often before the cancer has spread. For instance, localized breast cancer has a five-year survival rate of approximately 99%, while colorectal cancer detected early has a survival rate around 90%. In contrast, cancers diagnosed at advanced stages, when they have metastasized to other parts of the body, see a sharp drop in survival rates. For example, the five-year survival rate for metastatic breast cancer falls to about 29%, and for late-stage lung cancer, it drops below 10%. These stark differences highlight the critical importance of early detection in improving patient outcomes and overall survival, making early diagnosis a cornerstone of modern cancer care.