Biochemical sensor helps refine cancer treatment

MIT professor Michael Cima is developing a tiny biochemical sensor that can be implanted in cancerous tissue during a biopsy.  It wirelessly sends  biomarker data to an external device,  allowing doctors to monitor progress, and adjust dosages or switch therapies accordingly.

The sensor fits into the tip of a biopsy needle. It contains 10 microliters of chemical contrast agents typically used for MRI, and an on-board circuit to communicate with the external reader. Real-time, on-demand data concerning two biomarkers linked to a tumor’s response to treatment, pH and dissolved oxygen, is provided.

The goal is to make treatments more targeted and precise, to improve their efficacy and reduce side effects.


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