Fribourg Nanotech Blood Test Advances Toward Breast Cancer Detection
Researchers at the University of Fribourg are advancing a DNA-based nanosensor designed to detect microRNAs in blood samples as biomarkers for breast cancer, Blick reported. Led by Ivana Domljanovic, the project aims to address a disease that affects one in eight women, with diagnosis timelines remaining critical to patient survival rates. The scientist of Croatian origin continues to dedicate energy to her project, which has been immediately applauded by several international awards and supports. This disease affects one in eight women, the researcher points out. Cases are increasing, even among young people, largely due to our environment, stress, and lifestyles. But survival rates are excellent when diagnosis is made early and appropriate therapy is started promptly.
Since being met in October 2024, the young researcher has been advancing her work, which progresses step by step.
Comparing Biosensor Results Against Standard Medical Diagnostics
The development project recently concluded a two-year phase comparing data from the DNA nanosensor against established medical diagnostic methods. Domljanovic conducted the comparative analysis alongside Curzio Rüegg, drawing support from students across the University of Fribourg’s medical and physics departments. It was a huge undertaking spanning more than two years, but I was able to count on the help of Professor Curzio Rüegg, my mentor, and students from the medical and physics departments of the University of Fribourg, the young woman rejoices. The results are very promising.
The system utilizes DNA folded into an origami-like structure to target microRNA molecules circulating in the bloodstream. While initial data comparison yielded promising results, the research team is shifting focus toward tracking disease progression and identifying early relapses before testing the sensor on primary early-stage cancer samples.
University Laboratory Research and 2029 Commercialization Goals
Bringing the diagnostic tool into clinical practice requires extensive funding, long-term scientific validation, and additional clinical trials.
The eventual objective involves manufacturing a research kit for deployment across hospital networks.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Fribourg Blood Test Project
How does the DNA nanosensor detect breast cancer in blood samples?
The device uses folded DNA structures to identify microRNAs, which are small molecules associated with breast cancer that circulate in the bloodstream.
Who is leading the research at the University of Fribourg?
Ivana Domljanovic is leading the project, working alongside Curzio Rüegg and students from the university’s medical and physics departments.
When is the test expected to be available for clinical use?
The research team targets commercial market entry by 2029, pending further clinical validation, successful hospital testing kits, and additional funding phases.
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