Chinese scientists have created a device to trap tumor cells in the blood

Chinese scientists have developed a device to clean the blood from cancer cells that can cause metastases. In experiments on mice with breast cancer, the combination of technology with chemotherapy slowed tumour return and increased animal survival, the Hi-Tech Mail reported, citing the South China Morning Post.

The development was created by researchers led by Shanghai Jiaotong University. The device was called a “black hole”. It passes blood through microscopic channels where antibodies capture tumor cells with the EpCAM protein, after which the purified blood returns to the body.

In laboratory tests, the system retained more than 99% of human breast cancer cells at a low flow rate. When the speed increased to 1.2 ml per hour, the efficiency was about 95%.

In experiments on mice after tumor removal, scientists compared the results of chemotherapy, blood purification and a combination of the two methods. By the 28th day, 50% of the animals survived the combined treatment, and 20% survived using each method separately. Without additional therapy, no mice survived.

Scientists stressed that the method has been tested only in the laboratory and in mice. For use in humans, it will be necessary to increase the volume of blood processed and assess the safety of repeated procedures. The researchers plan to continue experiments on rats.

In December 2024, scientists at the Chinese Academy of Sciences developed an experimental nanovaccine to prevent cancer recurrence after tumor removal. Tests in mice showed a reduced risk of re-formation of tumors and metastases.