With a nanoparticle ‘Human touch’ could sensor breast cancer

A nanoparticle-based device that emulates human touch and that could significantly enhance clinical breast exams for early detection of cancer have been developed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln scientists. Researchers Ravi Saraf and Chieu Van Nguyen have described a thin-film sensor that can detect tumors which are too small and deep to be felt with the fingers. Using a silicone breast model identical to those used to train doctors in manual breast exams, the researchers used the film to successfully detect tumours as small as 5 millimeters, hidden up to 20 millimeters deep. The technology also would allow improved detection for skin cancer. The film is easy to manufacture using readily available industrial processes and remains stable for months. A tool like this could be interfaced with a laptop to provide high-quality screening capability to save lives in poor countries in remote parts of the world.