UK Scientists Develop Whole-Body MRI to Detect Tiny Cancer Traces

Scientists have developed a new whole-body MRI scanning technique that can detect minimal residual disease in myeloma patients even when traditional tests show no signs of cancer, offering a potential revolution in blood cancer care. This method, already adopted at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, allows for earlier detection of cancer relapse and better assessment of treatment response without radiation exposure, significantly impacting patient survival. Air Vice-Marshal Fin Monahan, a patient benefiting from this technology, credited it with extending his life and enabling ongoing public service. In parallel, Bengaluru-based startup Quantum Biosciences is leveraging quantum technology to identify cellular damage and oxidative stress before symptoms appear, aiming to prevent radiation-induced harm and improve early cancer diagnosis. Founded by Ravi Puvvala, inspired by his wife's cancer experience, the company collaborates with Dutch partner QT Sense to develop quantum biosensors that detect subcellular biomarkers, with ambitions to transform diagnostics across oncology and other serious diseases. These advancements highlight a promising future for early detection and personalized treatment in cancer care globally.