Oxford Nanopore Technologies and Dutch start-up Cyclomics have begun developer testing on a non-invasive method for accurate and fast detection of molecules associated with cancer.

 

It is the world’s first nanopore sequencing-based solution for ultra-sensitive detection of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA).

 

Researchers claim the new method could signal a paradigm shift in cancer detection and management by enabling healthcare providers to detect recurring cancer, with close to 100% accuracy.

 

The method works by detecting and analysing cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in the blood stream. In the context of cancer, tumours release DNA as their cells die; if specific mutations are present in the DNA of those tumour cells, those mutations can be found in the ctDNA. The detection of ctDNA has historically been challenging as a very low percentage of the cfDNA in the blood typically originates from the tumour.

 

Cyclomics’ newly developed CyclomicsSeq ensures that individual ctDNA molecules present in blood can be sequenced – with near 100% accuracy as shown in proof-of-concept study – allowing for indirect detection of a specific tumour from a blood draw. CyclomicsSeq uses nanopore technology’s ability to sequence any-length fragment of DNA, to target the ctDNA and cfDNA in the 200 base pair range. 

 

A first universal version of the CyclomicsSeq workflow, which includes library prep and analysis, is now being trialled with select users in a developer access programme. An open early access programme will follow in the coming months.