Scientists have developed a highly accurate blood test that can detect brain tumours, including aggressive glioblastomas, with over 90% precision. By identifying specific proteins in the blood, the test offers a non-invasive alternative to MRIs and biopsies. It could enable earlier diagnosis, monitor treatment response, and improve outcomes, marking a significant step toward more accessible, precision-based cancer care.
SCIENTISTS have made major progress on a blood test that can help detect brain tumours and monitor them in real time. The test, which is said to be more than 90 per cent accurate, could be used by doctors to pick up deadly growths. Early research focuses on fast-growing glioblastomas, but it is being expanded to other kinds of brain tumours.
At present, treatment for those suffering from brain tumours is not just complex but also difficult in the later stages, as it requires way too many MRI scans and invasive surgical biopsies. However, researchers from the University of Manchester, assisted by teams in Denmark, say this can be drastically streamlined.
How does the blood test work?
According to the scientists, they found a pair of proteins in the blood that can identify tumours with high accuracy and provide insights into how the disease responds to treatment. These proteins – often referred to as liquid biopsy indicators- allow doctors to detect the presence of a tumour without needing direct access to brain tissue.
Researchers say the test can distinguish between tumour-related signals and normal biological activity, achieving an accuracy rate of over 90 per cent in early trials. This means the test could potentially:
- Detect tumours earlier than traditional imaging
- Reduce the need for invasive diagnostic procedures
- Help monitor tumour progression and treatment response
“Glioblastoma is one of the most devastating cancers we face. The lack of reliable tests has been a major barrier to earlier diagnosis and treatment-response monitoring,” said Lead researcher Prof Petra Hamerlik. “The idea is to develop a device – something like a COVID-19 test – to start with. If this is confirmed, it will be submitted to the regulatory bodies and hopefully be brought into the NHS within a decade.”
How is it different?
Unlike traditional diagnostic tools, this blood test offers a non-invasive and scalable solution. Patients may only need a standard blood sample, making it easier to integrate into routine health check-ups. Doctors believe this could be particularly beneficial in regions with limited access to advanced imaging technologies, allowing wider and earlier screening for brain cancers.
At present, a clinical trial is running at six UK sites and four abroad.
What is the potential impact on cancer care?
Experts believe that if it gets validated through larger clinical trials, this innovation could significantly improve survival rates and treatment outcomes. Early detection allows doctors to begin treatment sooner, often when tumours are smaller and easier to manage. Scientists say the test may also help:
- Identify tumour types more quickly
- Personalize treatment plans
- Track how well therapies are working over time
This aligns with the growing shift toward precision medicine, where treatments are tailored based on individual biological markers.
