Currently, lung cancer screening programs are targeted primarily towards older individuals with a history of smoking. Undoubtedly, smoking is the leading risk factors but at the same time it is also true that many people do not qualify for screening under existing criteria. Researchers have identified a blood-based protein signature that is capable of predicting lung cancer risk before diagnosis. The team has developed a biologically informed method of identifying risk by focusing on inflammation.
Large International Study Published in Cell
The findings of the study have been published in the journal Cell. They are the result from large international effort involving more than 80 scientists across four continents. They combined large-scale human population data, mechanistic laboratory studies and clinical trial analysis to demonstrate than blood-based inflammatory signature can identify those at elevated risk of lung cancer. These findings move beyond traditional risk models.
Blood Protein Signature Predicts Future Lung Cancer Risk
In this study, the team analysed blood plasma protein data from over 48000 UK Biobank participants. Their machine learning algorithm identified 14 key proteins in the blood that could predict future diagnosis of lung cancer within five years. The results were validated in eight datasets from across the world. Further analyses also showed that same signature was elevated in individuals who later developed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Researchers Highlight Future Prevention Potential
“This is a proof of concept that, one day, we could use this signature to offer preventive treatment to people at risk of lung cancer,” said Tej Pandya, clinical PhD student at UCL and visiting scientist at The Francis Crick Institute.
Findings Validated Across Global Cohorts
The findings of the study were validated across eight international cohorts involving over 2000 lung cancer cases. They found that protein signature was elevated not only in smokers but also in those who are exposed to particulate air pollution.
This study sheds new light on lung cancer development and suggests how air pollution, cancer-causing mutations and inflammation may promote tumor formation.
The information shared in this blog is for educational purposes only.
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FAQ
What is the new blood-based risk score for lung cancer?
It is a blood test that analyzes specific proteins linked to inflammation and may help predict lung cancer risk before diagnosis.
How early can this blood test predict lung cancer?
Researchers found that the protein signature could predict lung cancer risk up to five years before diagnosis.
Can non-smokers benefit from this lung cancer risk test?
Yes. The study found elevated risk signals not only in smokers but also in people exposed to air pollution.
How is this different from current lung cancer screening?
Current screening mainly targets older smokers, while this blood-based approach may identify high-risk individuals who do not meet existing screening criteria.
Could this test help prevent lung cancer?
Researchers believe it may eventually help identify people who could benefit from preventive treatments before cancer develops.
Why is inflammation important in lung cancer?
Chronic inflammation can create conditions that support cancer development. The identified protein signature reflects these biological changes.