Innovative Blood Test Advances Monitoring of Solid Tumor Treatments

In a significant advancement in oncology, Altum Sequencing, a start-up incubated at the C3N-IA Science Park of Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M), has developed a groundbreaking tool designed to track treatment responses in patients with solid tumors through a simple blood sample. This innovation, which could revolutionize the post-treatment monitoring of cancer patients, was detailed in a recent study published in the journal Breast Cancer Research on June 19, 2025.

The new technology focuses on the analysis of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), a type of DNA shed by tumors into the bloodstream, which allows for the early detection of potential relapses. According to Joaquín Martínez-López, President of Altum Sequencing, the system can anticipate clinical relapses up to 68 months before they become detectable via traditional diagnostic methods. "Our goal is not to diagnose cancer, but to provide physicians with an effective tool to monitor the evolution of the disease after treatment," Martínez-López stated.

Current statistics indicate that approximately 40% of patients diagnosed with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer experience relapses, highlighting the need for more effective monitoring tools. The technology employs next-generation sequencing (NGS) to pinpoint specific mutations in a patient’s tumor, allowing for highly sensitive detection of these mutations in blood samples. "We can detect one tumor cell among a million healthy cells from a simple blood sample," Martínez-López added, emphasizing the minimal invasiveness and cost-effectiveness of the approach.

Marina Planas, CEO of Altum Sequencing, elaborated on the technology's versatility, stating, "The advantage of our technology is that it is very minimally invasive and tailored to each tumor type, which allows us to avoid unnecessary treatments and minimizes the risk of false positives." The application of this technology extends beyond breast cancer, as the researchers aim to adapt it for various solid tumors, including lung cancers and hematological malignancies such as multiple myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia.

The development has garnered support not only from UC3M but also from the Community of Madrid, the Centre for Technological Development and Innovation (CDTI), and the European Regional Development Fund (FEDER). Altum Sequencing collaborates with several prominent hospitals, including the 12 de Octubre Hospital and the Gregorio Marañón Hospital, to refine and implement its monitoring technology.

In addition to its advancements in ctDNA analysis, Altum Sequencing is exploring the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into its diagnostic processes. The company plans to incorporate machine learning algorithms to further enhance the accuracy of diagnoses and the personalization of treatment plans.

The potential implications of this technology are profound, not only for improving patient outcomes but also for reshaping the landscape of cancer monitoring and treatment protocols globally. As Altum Sequencing seeks regulatory approvals in Europe and the United States, the medical community remains optimistic about the future of personalized cancer care.

In conclusion, Altum Sequencing's innovative approach represents a promising shift in oncology, where early detection and personalized treatment strategies could significantly improve survival rates and quality of life for cancer patients worldwide. The journey from research to clinical application may pave the way for more advancements in the field, bridging the gap between technological innovation and patient care.