Ultra-Sensitive Biosensor Based on Light and AI Enables Early Cancer Diagnosis

Cancer diagnosis is often delayed due to the difficulty in detecting early-stage cancer markers. In particular, the concentration of methylated DNA in the bloodstream during the early stages of cancer is extremely low, making it challenging for conventional biosensors to detect these minute amounts. This early DNA methylation is a critical indicator of cancer, but existing diagnostic techniques struggle with sensitivity and accuracy. As a result, many current methods cannot identify cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. Now, researchers have developed a high-sensitivity optical biosensor capable of detecting trace amounts of methylated DNA in the bloodstream for the early detection of cancer.

Developed by the Korea Institute of Materials Science (KIMS, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea) the ultra-sensitive biosensor uses cutting-edge optical signaling and AI-based analysis to amplify light signals through plasmonic materials, enabling the detection of even the smallest quantities of DNA. The technology uses light and AI to analyze DNA methylation without the need for complex procedures. The biosensor can detect methylated DNA at concentrations as low as 25 fg/mL, offering a 1,000-fold improvement in sensitivity compared to conventional methods. This biosensor has been validated through testing, demonstrating its ability to detect trace amounts of cancer DNA with high sensitivity and accuracy.

Image: Illustration of the high-sensitivity detection of trace amounts of cancer DNA in blood and its analysis using an AI-based method (Photo courtesy of KIMS)

The biosensor technology was applied to blood samples from 60 colorectal cancer patients, achieving a 99% accuracy rate in detecting cancer and distinguishing between stages I to IV in just 20 minutes with only 100 μL of blood. These findings, published in Advanced Science, highlight the biosensor’s potential for use in hospitals, health screening centers, and even at home as a point-of-care diagnostic tool. The technology significantly reduces diagnostic time and costs, making it highly applicable for early cancer diagnosis, especially in areas with limited access to traditional laboratory infrastructure. Moving forward, the research team plans to expand the device’s application to other diseases, including autoimmune disorders and neurological conditions.

"This technology serves as a next-generation diagnostic platform capable not only of early cancer detection, but also of predicting prognosis and monitoring treatment response," said Dr. Ho Sang Jung, Senior Researcher at KIMS and lead of the project. "We plan to expand its application to a wide range of diseases, including autoimmune disorders and neurological conditions."

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