Lung cancer, especially lung adenocarcinoma, is one of the main causes of death worldwide. This paper reports on the real-time detection methods of human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. The proposed approach is based on using optical, impedance and microwave spectroscopy in an attempt to develop an online tool that can be easily used for early cancer diagnostics and treatment monitoring not only in the hospital labs, but at point of care. Low power athermal electromagnetic waves as a sensing mechanism for early cancer detection showed a particular promise. The techniques were also applied to other cells, such as PC3, LL24, HLF, HACAT and DU145, to ensure selectivity of the sensors. Providing real-time information at point of care will be a significant leap on its own as it will dramatically increase screening capabilities.
SQUID instrumentation for early cancer diagnostics
