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Breakthrough in Oral Cancer Detection through Nano Technologies and AI
A recent study from the University of Otago has unveiled remarkable advancements in the early and accurate detection of oral cancer through the integration of nano technologies and artificial intelligence (AI).
Researchers from the Faculty of Dentistry utilized atomic force microscopy (AFM) in conjunction with AI to identify nanoscale alterations in cancer cells, which often escape detection by conventional diagnostic techniques.
According to Senior Author Associate Professor Peter Mei, this innovative approach represents a significant leap forward in cancer diagnostics. “The synthesis of these technologies allows for the observation of nanoscale modifications on cancer cell surfaces that traditional methods may overlook,” he stated.
Mei emphasized that enhanced diagnostic precision and reliability could facilitate earlier cancer detection, a critical factor in improving patient treatment options and furthering the field of precision medicine.
The findings, published in the journal ACS Nano, emerged from a pressing need to establish more effective and dependable cancer detection methods. Notably, the World Cancer Research Fund reported approximately 390,000 new cases of oral and mouth cancer globally in 2022, resulting in over 188,000 fatalities.
Dr. Simon Guan, the lead author of the study, expressed optimism about the future adoption of this diagnostic technique, envisioning it as a vital resource for healthcare professionals. “We aim to refine AFM technology to make it more accessible for routine clinical use,” he mentioned. Guan believes that such advancements could lead to faster and more precise cancer diagnoses across various types of cancer, ultimately offering enhanced treatment options for patients.
Moreover, Guan noted the potential for their discoveries to inspire new therapeutic approaches based on the nanophysical characteristics of cancer cells.
Associate Professor Mei reiterated the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in this research, drawing from the fields of dentistry, nanoscience, and AI. “The cooperation among experts in different areas can result in transformative breakthroughs that enhance health outcomes globally,” he commented. “This research illustrates how scientific innovation can contribute to improved healthcare, particularly in the realms of cancer detection and treatment.”
* This research was supported by grants from the University of Otago, the New Zealand Dental Research Foundation, the Maurice and Phyllis Paykel Trust, and the Sir John Walsh Research Institute PhD Research Grant, utilizing Otago’s exceptional research capabilities at the Faculty of Dentistry and the Otago Micro and Nanoscale Imaging Centre.
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