Innovative Microsensing Technology for Real-Time Monitoring of Cancer Progression

A groundbreaking advancement in cancer monitoring has emerged through the development of a novel microsensing technology by Sensome, a leader in tissue analysis sensors. This innovative methodology leverages electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) combined with microelectrode arrays and advanced predictive algorithms to observe cellular dynamics involved in cancer progression without invasive procedures. Published in Science Advances, the study showcases how this label-free, real-time approach enables researchers to track changes in cell density, size, and type, as well as spatial heterogeneities between normal and cancerous breast epithelial cells. The technology was tested in collaboration with École Polytechnique’s Hydrodynamics Laboratory (LadHyX) and the C2N research center, successfully predicting cellular behaviors that align with microscopy results.

This methodology shifts the paradigm of cellular analysis by allowing continuous monitoring of tumor evolution, which could significantly enhance cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies. Unlike traditional live-cell microscopy that can damage cells or be limited by optical access, this noninvasive technique minimizes cellular disruption, providing a more accurate representation of cell behavior over extended periods. Co-author Abdul Barakat and CEO Franz Bozsak emphasize its potential use in various clinical applications, including lung cancer detection, where early and precise monitoring is crucial. With ongoing efforts to collaborate with industry partners, this technology promises to revolutionize how cancer progression is studied and managed in medical practice.