Researchers develop quick, easy test to detect cancer

SYDNEY, Dec 05 (Xinhua): Australian researchers said on Wednesday they have developed a quick and easy test to detect cancer from blood or biopsy tissue, pointing to new approaches to patient diagnoses through simple devices like mobile phones.

The University of Queensland team "discovered a unique DNA nanostructure that appears to be common to all cancers," according to a statement.

"This unique nano-scaled DNA signature appeared in every type of breast cancer we examined, and in other forms of cancer including prostate, colorectal and ymphoma," said researcher Dr Abu Sina.

"The levels and patterns of tiny molecules called methyl groups that decorate DNA are altered dramatically by cancer - these methyl groups are key for cells to control which genes are turned on and off."