View all newsletters
Receive our newsletter - data, insights and analysis delivered to you
  1. Technology
October 25, 2013

IBM and the University Hospital in Zürich test new device for diagnosing cancer

Prototype device will be installed in 2014 at the University Hospital in Zürich.

By Kate Heslop

IBM scientists have begun collaborating with pathologists at the University Hospital Zürich to test a new prototype tool to accurately diagnose different types of cancer.

The work is based on a microfluidic probe, new technology developed by IBM scientists, which slightly resembles the nib of a fountain pen. The microfluidic probe can interact with tissue sections at the micrometer scale to help unravel some of the molecular variations within tumours.

The compact and easy-to-use tool may help unravel tumour heterogeneity and assist in personalised treatment strategies.

The analysis of a patient’s biopsy tissue sample, which sometimes can be as small as a pinhead, is a critical step in the diagnosis of cancer. However, even with the smallest tissue sample, pathologists can test for the absence or presence of tumour cells and provide important information to doctors regarding the course of treatment.

During analysis of the tissue samples, pathologists typically stain the sample with liquid reagents. The intensity and distribution of the colour stain can classify and determine the extent of the disease. Although this analysis provides insights into the tumour, it is increasingly being realised that significant variations exist within the tumour itself and mapping these variations may help understand the drivers for each tumour. This then creates personalised treatment strategies.

The collaboration between IBM and the University Hospital Zürich puts a strong emphasis on uncovering the heterogeneity of tumours. The collaboration focuses on lung cancer, which is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer and has a high mortality rate.

Dr Govind Kaigala, a scientist at IBM Research – Zurich commented on the new technology: "For about a year we have been testing the probe in our lab, and initial results are very encouraging – we are now developing the technology in the context of important aspects in pathology. Over the next several months, we will install a prototype device at the hospital and work alongside pathologists."

Content from our partners
How businesses can safeguard themselves on the cyber frontline
How hackers’ tactics are evolving in an increasingly complex landscape
Green for go: Transforming trade in the UK

Websites in our network
Select and enter your corporate email address Tech Monitor's research, insight and analysis examines the frontiers of digital transformation to help tech leaders navigate the future. Our Changelog newsletter delivers our best work to your inbox every week.
  • CIO
  • CTO
  • CISO
  • CSO
  • CFO
  • CDO
  • CEO
  • Architect Founder
  • MD
  • Director
  • Manager
  • Other
Visit our privacy policy for more information about our services, how New Statesman Media Group may use, process and share your personal data, including information on your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.
THANK YOU