Microextraction in cancer research

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I have already arrived home after an interesting meeting in Madeira island regarding the HCV project dedicated to the study and characterization of human cancer volatome. The identification of biomarkers in several biological specimens is really essential since it will allow the development of analytical platforms for early detection of cancer or to study the disease progression. In this context, microextraction techniques can be used in two different scenarios. On the one hand, they can be used in the preliminary research to isolate potential candidates as biomarkers from several samples including urine or breath. On the other hand, once selected the appropriate candidates, microextraction techniques can be used to design screening and/or confirmation analytical methodologies for real-world tests.


The HCV project involves research groups form different countries. The consortium includess researchers from the Madeira University at Portugal, the National Centre for Cell Science at India, the University of Rostock at Germany, the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics at India and the University of Alberta at Canada.

From the scientific point of view, I was truly impressed for the quality of the work developed until now by this consortium. Indeed, I witnessed the practical demonstration of a breath sampling device that allows the trapping/preconcentration of potential biomarkers before their analytical determination. From the personal point of view, they form a multidisciplinary gifted group with a great ability to transmit their passion for this research field. In short, they form a powerful network that will success, for sure, achieving their objectives.

Impressive views of Madeira island from a cable car
For me, these have been very good days as a time for sharing science (Prof Hossam Haick presentation was also truly inspiring) and personal experiences in a lovely place, Madeira. I would like to thank the "madeiran crew", headed by Prof. Câmara, for their attention and organization. Their contribution was essential to the development of the meeting.


Finally, thanks to Dr. Lasarte for coming with me to this travel and  congrats for his exceptional presentation about the potential of aptamers in Bioanalysis. He has taken up many challenges in these days.

From Microextraction, we wish HCV project every success.

RL

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