A new, highly sensitive technology to rapidly detect mutations of the EGF receptor.

Identifying the presence and type of mutations in the gene encoding the EGF receptor is an important step in the management of patients with lung cancer. Current methods are effective but show limitations, either in sensitivity or in the time required to deliver a result. In this study, we developed an innovative microfluidic module that concentrates and separates DNA fragments to identify the most frequent mutations of this receptor using specific probes in only five minutes, even when such alterations represent only 10% of the genetic material analyzed. This detection system, both robust and reliable, paves the way for rapid and accurate tests to improve the management of hard-to-treat cancers.

In the era of liquid biopsies, this technological advance could improve the management of cancer patients. By enabling the rapid and reliable detection of EGFR mutations, even when present at low levels, it accelerates diagnosis and guides patients toward targeted treatments. The reduction in analysis time could help improve the care pathway, reduce the risk of errors, and pave the way for the use of rapid molecular tests directly in the clinical setting. Ultimately, this method could also be adapted to other mutations and types of cancer, further advancing personalized medicine.

The next step is to apply this approach to patient samples, ideally minimizing pre-analytical steps. Ultimately, clinical research projects could be conducted to compare the value of this approach with the standards currently used in clinical practice.

Detection of mutations in the gene encoding the EGF receptor in 3 minutes using DNA concentration and separation. The fluorescent probes used recognize the EGF receptor gene ( left, green, internal control) or specifically the L858R mutation (red, right).

Collaborations and partnerships

• CRCT,

• LAAS-CNRS

• IUCT-Oncopole