CellCloud's New Venture into Early Colorectal Cancer Research
CellCloud, headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, has recently launched a significant collaborative research project with Tochigi Cancer Center and Tokyo Medical Center. This initiative focuses on the role of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the early detection of colorectal cancer. This marks a continuation of CellCloud’s commitment to advancing cancer diagnostics through innovative research.
The partnership is led by Takeshi Ota, the head of the Micro CTC Advanced Medical Research Institute at CellCloud, in collaboration with experts from the colorectal surgery departments of both Tochigi Cancer Center and Tokyo Medical Center. The research aims to explore the critical function of CTCs, which may provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of early colorectal cancer.
Background of the Research Initiative
Early-stage colorectal cancer often presents with subtle or no symptoms, making it challenging for patients to recognize potential health issues. As a result, there's a growing need for minimally invasive yet highly precise methods to assess cancer risk and evaluate the likelihood of recurrence. Recent studies have highlighted the potential for CTC analysis in discerning the characteristics and progression of cancer. However, there is still much to uncover regarding the behavior of CTCs in early colorectal cancer.
Hence, this research is pivotal in determining the clinical significance of CTC measurements in cases of early colorectal cancer. It is expected that findings from this study will provide essential data that could lead to more effective monitoring of treatment responses and better prognostic assessments.
Future Prospects and Implications
The outcomes of this research could significantly improve the understanding of the correlation between CTC presence and disease progression in early colorectal cancer. If successful, this could open avenues for extensive clinical applications such as early diagnosis of recurrence and treatment effect monitoring.
CellCloud remains dedicated to enhancing collaborations with associated institutions to boost the effective utilization of CTCs in medical practices, pushing forward with joint research initiatives.
Understanding Micro CTC Testing
CTCs, or circulating tumor cells, are cancer cells that have shed from a primary tumor into the bloodstream. The CTC test is a cutting-edge diagnostic tool that identifies these circulating cancer cells. While awareness of CTC testing remains low in Japan, it has already drawn significant attention in Europe and the United States, where over 35,000 related research papers have been published. The FDA has approved similar tests, indicating a growing recognition of their importance in cancer research and treatment.
CellCloud’s Micro CTC test employs advanced methods to enhance the quality and accuracy of CTC detection, specifically targeting highly aggressive mesenchymal cancer cells known for their increased invasive and metastatic abilities. Through the use of a CSV (cell surface vimentin) antibody, this test can accurately determine cancer risk more safely and conveniently compared to conventional methods. Thus, patients are afforded a non-invasive means to assess their cancer risks, especially those concerning solid tumors.
About CellCloud
Founded in April 2022, CellCloud aims to revolutionize cancer diagnostics. The company is led by Takahiro Hamano and is dedicated to advancing methods in oncology through groundbreaking research and technology.
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Website:
https://cellcloud.co.jp/
Institutions Involved in the Research
Tochigi Cancer Center
Located in Utsunomiya, Tochigi, the center focuses on comprehensive cancer treatment and research. For more information:
Tochigi Cancer Center
Tokyo Medical Center
Based in Meguro, Tokyo, this facility provides extensive medical services and is dedicated to advancing patient care through research. For more details:
Tokyo Medical Center