Washington, August 27 (ANI): Michigan State University researchers are developing a low-cost, hand-held device that can help detect cancer in poorer countries.
An engineering researcher and a global health expert from MSU, Syed Hashsham, is developing the Gene-Z device, which is operated using an iPod Touch or Android-based tablet and performs genetic analysis on microRNAs and other genetic markers.
MicroRNAs are single-stranded molecules that regulate genes; changes in certain microRNAs have been linked to cancer and other health-related issues.
Hashsham, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at MSU is working with Reza Nassiri, director of MSU's Institute of International Health and an assistant dean in the College of Osteopathic Medicine, on the medical capabilities for the device and establishing connections with physicians worldwide.
Cancer is emerging as a leading cause of death in underdeveloped and developing countries where resources for cancer screening are almost non-existent, said Nassiri.
"Gene-Z has the capability to screen for established markers of cancer at extremely low costs in the field," said Hashsham.
"Because it is a hand-held device operated by a battery and chargeable by solar energy, it is extremely useful in limited-resource settings," added Hashsham.
In addition to cancer detection, the Gene-Z device is also being developed to diagnose routine tuberculosis and drug-resistant TB, determine HIV virus levels during treatment and monitor overall antibiotic resistance.
Hashsham demonstrated the potential of the Gene-Z at the National Institutes of Health's first Cancer Detection and Diagnostics Conference. (ANI)
|
|
Read More: Cancer
Comments:
