Electronic Biosensors Used to Detect Pathogens Can Rapidly Detect Cancer Cells

Early diagnosis remains difficult due to the complexity of identifying specific genetic markers quickly and accurately without extensive lab work. This delay often limits widespread screening and leads to late-stage diagnoses. Traditional diagnostic methods require chemical reactions, laboratory analysis, and time-consuming procedures. Now, new research has demonstrated that electronic biosensors used to detect pathogens can also detect cancer cells.

IdentifySensors Biologics (Shaker Heights, OH, USA) has repurposed its existing electronic biosensor platform called Check4—originally designed for pathogen detection—for cancer detection. Check4 comprises a reusable, portable Bluetooth device and a single-use cartridge that processes saliva or blood samples. Inside the device, printed semiconductors generate an electrical signal upon detecting a targeted DNA or RNA sequence. These digital signals are analyzed by a proprietary cloud-based algorithm, which then sends the results directly to healthcare databases or patients via a mobile app. The platform eliminates the need for reagents, lab technicians, and long wait times by replacing traditional chemical reactions with digital ones.

In preliminary studies, the technology successfully detected cancer gene sequences, validating its broader potential beyond infectious disease diagnostics. This early success suggests the platform could be adapted into a highly affordable molecular cancer screening test suitable for home use. Although not yet FDA-approved for cancer detection, a pre-EUA submission has been filed for ebolavirus detection, signaling progress in regulatory review. This advancement paves the way for widespread, early screening of cancer and other diseases through a single, easy-to-use device. The company plans to continue exploring additional medical applications of the platform while moving toward full commercialization.

"We have been optimistic that our electronic biosensors could detect cancer, but our research this month supports that theory, at least in preliminary studies and before the FDA reviews the process," said Greg Hummer, MD, CEO of IdentifySensors Biologics and lead developer of the Check4 platform. "As this plays out, the approach could lead to a highly affordable molecular cancer screening test for home use. This could be a major breakthrough in widescale early screening and diagnosis for some of the most predominant forms of the disease."

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