Breast cancer diagnosis in real time
Fraunhofer IAP expands expertise with new research group; Press release / August 17, 2020
Breast cancer diagnosis in real time.
The development of efficient and gentle methods for the diagnosis of breast cancer based on blood is the focus of the new "Nanocellular Interactions" working group at the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research IAP. The group has been headed by Dr. Neus Feliu Torres at the CAN site in Hamburg since July 1, 2020. She is one of five "high potentials" that Fraunhofer was able to attract in 2019 with its "Attract" program. Using the "Liquid Biopsy" process, which she intends to develop in the LIBIMEDOTS project, it should be possible to monitor the status and course of breast cancer patients' disease in real time.
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed tumor in women. Conventionally, the diagnosis is made by biopsy to clarify whether a suspicious lump is a harmless or pathological tissue alteration. The doctor removes small pieces of tissue, which are then examined in the laboratory. The result is available after about four to five days. Tissue biopsies are therefore time-consuming and do not provide real-time information on the status and course of the disease. They are also invasive, costly, painful, and can also be risky.