Development of techniques for the early detection of cancer by blood test

Toru Mochizuki, Deputy Director and Director of Medical Genetics Shizuoka Cancer Center Research Institute
(FY2010-2012)

We are engaged in the identification of ProNT as a protein secreted by small cell lung cancer cells and verifying its usefulness as a tumor marker.
In addition, utilizing genomics, transcriptomics and metabolomics, we aim to promote the discovery of new markers from DNA, RNA and and intracellular metabolites and to establish establish them as tumor markers in the blood.

FY2010 results

1. Using a ProNT-ELISA type small cell lung cancer marker trial product, we were able to obtain a tumor marker with a detection limit of 1pg/ml, tremendously sensitive and specific compared to previous prototypes.
2. We are proceeding with the initial application for clinical trials for evaluation as a ProNT tumor marker, aiming to complete in 2012.