Innovative Blood Test Technology Predicts Breast Cancer Relapses Years Ahead

A groundbreaking technology developed by Altum Sequencing, a start-up supported by the C3N-IA Science Park at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M), promises to revolutionize post-treatment monitoring for breast cancer patients by detecting potential relapses up to five years in advance. This innovative tool analyzes circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from a simple blood sample, providing a minimally invasive method to gauge treatment response in patients with solid tumors.

The findings, published in the journal *Breast Cancer Research* on June 19, 2025, reveal that while many patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer often respond well to initial therapy, approximately 40% experience relapses over time. Joaquín Martínez-López, President of Altum Sequencing, emphasized that the primary goal of their technology is not to diagnose cancer but to equip healthcare providers with a reliable method for tracking disease evolution post-treatment. “Current diagnostic tools have sensitivity limitations, which makes early detection of these relapses difficult,” he noted.

Utilizing next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology, this new approach can identify one tumor cell among a million healthy cells in a blood sample. This methodology begins with an initial tumor biopsy to identify patient-specific mutations, followed by blood tests that seek traces of these mutations in ctDNA. Marina Planas, CEO of Altum Sequencing, highlighted the advantages of this technology, stating that it is minimally invasive, cost-effective, and tailored to each tumor type, thereby reducing the need for unnecessary treatments and minimizing the risk of false positives.

The implications of this technology extend beyond breast cancer, as ongoing research is exploring its applicability to various solid tumors, including lung cancer and hematological cancers such as multiple myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia. Altum Sequencing aims to secure regulatory approvals in Europe and the United States to make this tool available globally. “Today, we can detect one cell in a million. In the future, it will be one in ten million,” Planas remarked.

Moreover, the company is integrating generative artificial intelligence into its processes, intending to enhance diagnostic accuracy and optimize treatment adaptations. The potential of this technology could significantly improve patient outcomes by enabling earlier interventions and more personalized treatment plans.

In summary, Altum Sequencing’s innovative blood test represents a significant advancement in cancer surveillance and could play a pivotal role in transforming the landscape of post-treatment monitoring for breast cancer and other solid tumors. As the technology progresses, it holds the promise of not only improving survival rates but also enhancing the quality of life for cancer survivors worldwide.