Nanotechnology For Cervical Cancer Diagnosis Could Replace Invasive Pap Smears

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally, almost always caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which spreads through sexual contact. The Pap test (or Pap smear) is used to screen for cervical cancer, but access to regular testing is often limited, which raises concerns, as early detection is critical for effective treatment. Menstrual blood, like urine, contains cells and biomarkers that can be tested to provide valuable health information and signal the need for more specific and selective tests. Now, an innovative technology utilizes nanomaterials in menstrual products to detect HPV and cervical cancer using menstrual blood, potentially eliminating the need for Pap smears.

CELLECT Laboratories (Waterloo, ON, Canada) is pioneering the use of nanotechnology-powered menstrual products to non-invasively collect and preserve DNA for diagnosing HPV, cervical cancer, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and other reproductive and gynecological conditions. CELLECT has developed a nanomaterial that can be incorporated into tampons or pads, passively capturing and preserving DNA and cells from menstrual blood. This material can then be tested for HPV, cervical cancer, and other DNA-related conditions, including sexually transmitted infections. The lab processing techniques used by CELLECT mirror those employed in standard HPV tests, enabling the differentiation between high-risk and low-risk HPV strains. CELLECT provides a non-invasive alternative to Pap smears by using menstrual products to collect menstrual blood, thereby eliminating the need for more invasive procedures like swabs or speculums.

Image: The nanomaterial passively captures and preserves DNA and cells of interest from menstrual blood for testing (Photo courtesy of CELLECT)

For women who do not menstruate, CELLECT is also exploring the use of other vaginal fluids, such as discharges, as an alternative sample. The company’s proprietary technology is designed to work with very small volumes of fluid — as little as 15 mm³ — while still achieving the same diagnostic results. This ensures that the solution is inclusive and adaptable, offering a non-invasive and accurate method for women at various health stages. CELLECT has received attention from healthcare professionals and potential users, who are enthusiastic about the prospect of a non-invasive alternative to Pap smears. The company is well-positioned to bring about significant change, providing an accessible and inclusive screening method for people who menstruate, particularly those overlooked by traditional gynecological care models. With early successes in prototype development, CELLECT is on track to revolutionize healthcare.

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CELLECT Laboratories