Researchers have developed a new blood test that can detect early-stage liver scarring, known as fibrosis. This condition, if left untreated, can progress to severe cirrhosis and eventually liver cancer.
The test analyzes free-floating DNA fragments in the blood using a machine learning model. Unlike traditional tests, it scans for broader genomic patterns, not just specific mutations. This approach allows for the identification of markers linked to early disease, such as DNA fragment length and epigenetic changes.
In a study, the test successfully identified 50% of early liver disease cases and 78% of advanced cases, while correctly identifying disease-free individuals 83% of the time. The researchers aim to use this technology for earlier, noninvasive disease diagnosis and treatment before conditions become irreversible.
"The best way to intervene in liver cancer is not to detect liver cancer early, but to detect early liver disease," stated researcher Velculescu. Early fibrosis can often be reversed with treatment and lifestyle changes.