A simple blood test could detect multiple cancers and reveal where they started

UCLA researchers have developed a cost-effective blood test capable of detecting multiple types of cancer, liver diseases, and signs of organ dysfunction simultaneously. The technique, called MethylScan, analyzes fragments of DNA found in the blood, known as cell-free DNA (cfDNA). These fragments, which originate from dying cells throughout the body, contain molecular clues about the health of various organs.

Unlike other cancer detection methods that focus on genetic mutations, MethylScan examines DNA methylation patterns. These chemical tags on DNA help regulate gene activity, and their patterns can differ between healthy and diseased tissues. The researchers behind MethylScan aimed to leverage this approach by removing most of the normal blood cell DNA before sequencing, allowing for more sensitive detection of cancer-related fragments.

In early trials, MethylScan demonstrated promising results, correctly identifying about 63% of cancers at various stages and nearly 80% of liver cancer cases among high-risk individuals. The test also successfully distinguished between different liver diseases, with an accuracy of approximately 85% in classifying various forms of the condition. By analyzing the methylation patterns in the blood, MethylScan can pinpoint the organ source of the abnormal signal, helping guide further diagnostic procedures.

While further testing is required to confirm MethylScan's performance in real-world scenarios, the researchers believe it represents a significant step toward an affordable, comprehensive blood test that could detect multiple diseases earlier and provide a broader health overview than current methods.