AI Innovation Enhances Blood Test Accuracy for Faster Cancer Monitoring

Researchers from Singapore's A*STAR Genome Institute have introduced an innovative artificial intelligence (AI)-based method called "Fragle" that significantly improves the detection and monitoring of cancer through blood tests. This breakthrough technique analyzes the size of DNA fragments circulating in the blood, enabling more precise identification of cancer DNA (ctDNA) even from small blood samples.

Traditional methods for assessing cancer DNA in blood rely heavily on complex, costly sequencing procedures to detect common mutations associated with tumors. However, these mutations vary widely among patients, making consistent and reliable tracking challenging. Fragle overcomes this limitation by leveraging AI to recognize unique size patterns of DNA fragments that are indicative of cancer DNA. Since cancer-related DNA fragments tend to differ in size from healthy DNA, Fragle can distinguish them efficiently and accurately.

Published in Nature Biomedical Engineering in March 2025, the research demonstrates that Fragle is not only faster but also more affordable—costing less than SGD 50 per test compared to over SGD 1000 for conventional commercial assays. The method's high reliability is evidenced by its performance across diverse patient samples and various cancer types. Furthermore, it integrates seamlessly with existing DNA profiling techniques used in hospitals globally, facilitating widespread adoption.

Key advantages of Fragle include expedited results, reduced costs, and the capacity to detect minimal residual disease (MRD)—tiny traces of cancer that remain post-treatment. By identifying early signs of relapse, Fragle promises to become an essential tool for ongoing cancer management. As Dr. Anders Skanderup from A*STAR explains, the technology parallels wastewater-based COVID-19 tracking, by monitoring minor DNA fragments instead of viral particles.

Looking ahead, researchers aim to refine Fragle's sensitivity to catch even lower levels of ctDNA, which could allow for earlier intervention. Collaborative efforts with the National Cancer Center Singapore are underway to explore clinical applications, including early detection of relapse and monitoring treatment efficacy. Associate Professor Daniel Tan highlights the potential of Fragle to revolutionize cancer tracking and enhance patient outcomes worldwide.

Overall, this AI-powered blood test innovation offers a promising pathway toward more accessible, rapid, and cost-effective cancer care, potentially transforming how clinicians monitor disease progression and relapse in patients.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-ai-tool-blood-dna-fragments.html